CLASSIC WOODEN BAY OF ISLANDS LAUNCH – MARLINE GETS A REFRESH

Today’s woody story features the beautifully built MARLINE — a 1949/50 ex-game boat crafted by Leon Warne, and remarkably, still in the same family after three generations.

Now owned by Leon’s son, Ken Warne, the custodianship torch has been passed to Ken’s son Kennedy Warne, who’s been spending countless hours alongside the skilled team at CMC Design Boatbuilders in Opua, giving MARLINE some well-earned TLC.

MARLINE arrived at the CMC Design workshop in late April 2025. As Sian Steward from CMC Design explains, Leon’s master craftsmanship remains front of mind in every decision as they carefully upgrade and refresh her. While she was in impressive condition on arrival, she’ll leave looking that little bit sharper — the perfect birthday present as she celebrates 75 years afloat.

Relaunch is set for December 2025 — just in time for a well-deserved Bay of Islands summer.