Classic Boats – Kerikeri – Workshop Visit – PUFFIN

Bay of Islands woody – Dean Wright recently dropped into the shed of Classic Boats in Kerikeri (website link below), one of the projects underway is a complete replanting of the 100 year + classic above, named Puffin.                              Master boat builderHerbert Crumb-Gartner was just about to turn the hull over- wonderful craftsmanship on display.                              Dean has promised to call back and update us on the project.

Check out some of the past and present work that Classic Boats have been connected with https://www.classicboats.co.nz

INPUT From Herbert Krumm-Gartner – I am restoring ‘Puffin’ for her current owner of over 30 years. I first laid eyes on her in a shed in Russell about 3 years ago. Her owner phoned me up asking if I would be interested in restoring her to her former glory.

She is now 102 years old and was built as a fishing boat south of Sydney by some carpenters.

The current owner has all the history of her, he even knows, I think the great grand sons of her builders. When I had a look at her I realized that restoring her planking would not be satisfactory at all, as most of her laps had cracks where the copper rivets were, plus lots of the ribs were broken.

I suggested to the owner to completely re-plank and re-rib her. Instead of having 11 planks a side I decided to go to 13, which reduced the overall size of the individual planks considerably. I have retained the deck that the current owner built in the 1990’s. She will be re-powered with a 14hp Nanni diesel engine. Most of her interior, like seats, floor boards, etc, will be re-furbished and re-installed.

At present she is right way up, back in the shed and we are steaming in new Tanekaha ribs. Puffin is just under 18ft long.