The first half of 2023 hasn’t been easy, but that hasn’t stopped yacht enthusiasts from buying fancy floating toys. While the market is full of attractive new construction and older motor yachts that are still in excellent condition, some prefer older motor yachts that are still in excellent condition. Classic wooden yacht. For example, one recently became the new owner of the impressive 1961 American His Ketch, which boasts timeless elegance and a rich history.
At 80 feet (24.3 meters) high, the Tatoosh is one of the most iconic yachts built by Vic Frank’s boat company in Seattle, Washington. This vessel is unique not only for its long history, but also for its superb craftsmanship. The ship was made famous by its notable owners, but the fact that the Vic Franck shipyard is now defunct makes it even more special. The wooden tatoosh is a fine example of American shipbuilding and a valuable part of history.
The Tatoosh was custom built for a member of the Boeing family. Designed by the famous Ben Seaborn, built by Vic Frank Boatyard and fitted out by Sparkman and Stevens. At the time of its launch in 1961, the ship was one of the most luxurious boats ever delivered by Vic Hernandez Frank, and Pacific Herr one of the most impressive boats in the history of Northwest boat building. was one.
Photo: Yatko
The wooden ketch still retains its distinctive character today. Much of this is due to the majestic hull, which was constructed entirely from Alaskan yellow cedar, and the extensive use of bronze in the structural frame and fasteners (the rudder is also bronze).
The Boeing family only enjoyed it for a few years until another wealthy owner took over. Actor Peter Fonda is said to have used some of the proceeds from the 1969 Hollywood hit Easy Rider to buy a beautiful ketch. He kept his Tatoosh for over 15 years, making the most of its amazing sailing abilities. During this time, Seattle-built yachts regularly sailed to Tahiti, as well as California and Hawaii.
Tatoosh’s impressive track record is underscored by the fact that her extensive voyages continue to this day. In 2014, she successfully sailed from San Diego to Tahiti and back. Peter Fonda gave this car away in his 1985 and the new owner kept it for nearly 30 years. It changed ownership again in 2021, but is back on the market again just a few years later. It was sold for an undisclosed amount in May 2023, but we hope it can sail for many more decades to come.
After decades of smooth sailing, Tatoosh is now the proven cruiser of the world. A Caterpillar D-333 engine ensures a cruising speed of 8 knots (9.2 mph) and her top speed of 10 knots (11.5 mph) with a fuel capacity of 700 gallons (2,650 liters). Sleeps up to eight in one master stateroom and two guest her cabins, with an additional cabin for two crew members.
Photo: Dennison Yachting
The master stateroom has two large beds and its own bathroom, while the guest cabins (one with a double bed and one with a double and a single) share a bathroom. Even when you’re not at sea, the Tatoosh can provide great space to entertain guests thanks to the center steering console and spacious cockpit with comfortable seating for up to 15 people.
The interior is rich in teak wood, with a typical look of classic American yachts and a nautical themed design. interior style in bright blue hues. The main salon is entirely covered in teak paneling with varnished teak and holly floors.
Four large windows are strategically placed to provide excellent visibility. Comfortable seating and two high-low tables (which can be joined together to create a spacious table for up to 10 people) make this area even more welcoming. Still, there is plenty of space left for efficient storage, including built-in cabinets.
Although small, the galley is surprisingly well equipped for a classic boat, including a freezer, wine cooler and washer/dryer. Adjacent to it is a large solid teak dining table. Beautiful teak wheels with brass trim sit proudly in the center steering console.
Photo: Yatko
One of the most successful shipyards to develop on Lake Union, Vic Frank Shipyards closed 20 years ago in 2004. That same year, the company launched its final building, an 86-foot (26.2 m) shipyard. The Bella Rosa is a gorgeous pleasure boat that flaunts chandeliers and granite countertops. Vic Frank’s history is already over and the beautiful Tatoosh is one of Vic Frank’s few ships girlfriends. this shipyard It’s still up and running, so it’s even more valuable.
