Restoration
East Passage Boatwrights has built a reputation for high quality workmanship and attention to detail. Our crew is compiled of full time boatwrights, trained in traditional plank-on-frame wooden boat construction and restoration and, in combination with the finest manufacturers in the marine industry, EPB will manage all aspects of even the most complex restorations.
Starting with extensive research into the history of the vessel, including original construction methods, on deck and interior layout, and documentation of the “as found” condition of the boat, EPB will work with the owner to not only restore the vessel, but to ensure the vessel is able to sail for generations to come.
SANTANA
Sparkman & Stephens - 1935
The structural restoration on SANTANA was extensive and EPB was named lead shipwights for the project. Nearly all of the original steam bent frames were replaced with laminated white oak frames. Because of electrical corrosion at the diagonal bronze strapping in the areas of the original schooner mast locations, the entire length of the hull was re-planked with genuine Mahogany. Although all of the deck beams needed to be replaced, the sheer clamp and beam shelf were able to be re-used. Upon the completion of the deck installation, EPB manufactured new bulwarks, cap rails, and installed the deck hardware. After her successful relaunch, SANTANA has gone on to earn numerous awards for her restoration and collect hardware in classic yacht regattas on both sides of the Atlantic.
EVA MAY
Star Class - 1929
EVA MAY came to Bristol for a complete restoration with a focus on remaining faithful to the Star Class. Our crew replaced her entire centerline, including new keel, keelson, and floors. The original iron ballast was reused, but carefully isolated and attached with new silicon bronze keel bolts. All new deck frames served as a stable structure to support a new laid deck of Alaskan Yellow Pine. The final piece of the puzzle was to re-install the hardware in the original layout and deliver freshly painted and ready again for one-design competition.
CHESTNUT
Herreshoff 12 1/2 - 1930
CHESTNUT is an original Herreshoff 12 ½ built by HMCo in 1930. After more than 90 seasons on the water, the boat was still in remarkable condition. However, some of her structure required attention. Our crew surveyed the hull and identified a number of broken frames and replaced them with steam bent White Oak. The top side planking was splined and then faired before refinishing. Her original deck had become tired was replaced with period correct laid Cedar planking. Finally a fresh layer of canvas was stretched in place and painted.
Along with the restoration work, EPB built a new gaff rig to replace an earlier Marconi conversion and installed a custom electric drive system.
CLOVERLEAF
Rhodes 27 - 1939
CLOVERLEAF is a cherished family yacht with an incredible history. From her construction in Germany by the famed Abeking and Rasmussen, her theft during the 1974 America's Cup and eventual return months later, to the nearly 50 memorable years under the care of her current owner, CLOVERLEAF had 10s of thousands of miles under her keel.
In 2023, her owner noticed an increase in the frequency of their bilge pump cycles and brought in EPB to diagnose and solve the issue. With great care, EPB partially reframed the center section of the hull and replaced a small number of planks. While doing so, our crew replaced the many of the original underwater butt-blocks with “hide-a-butts,” these are expoxied scarfs replacing the traditional blocking that required caulking the joining seams.
Finally, the hull was re-caulked below the waterline and readied for the 2024 season.
