Downeast Lobster Boat

Chesapeake Bay Builders Post-War 1920-present $25,000-$150,000

Why it matters

The Downeast is the elegant cousin of the working lobster boat. Same seaworthy hull, same practical layout, but finished for cruising instead of hauling traps. Builders like Hinckley, Dyer, and dozens of smaller yards refined the working design into something you'd take to the yacht club. Function became form.

Specifications

Hull Material Fiberglass (modern), cedar/oak (traditional)
Length 28-45 ft
Beam 10-14 ft
Draft 3-4 ft
Weight 8,000-20,000 lbs
Engine Diesel inboard (Cummins, John Deere, Volvo)
Engine Type inboard
Horsepower 200-500 hp
Passengers 6
Production Continuously built by Maine yards

Notable Features

  • High bow for rough seas
  • Open working deck
  • Trap hauler
  • Refined version of Maine workboat

Patina notes

Downeast boats split into two camps: working boats with honest wear and yacht-quality boats with careful maintenance. The working boats show their occupation — pot hauler marks, bait stains, diesel soot. The cruisers show their care — varnished bright work, polished hardware. Both are valid.

Preservation reality

Wooden Downeast boats require Maine-level commitment: spring launching, fall haul-out, constant maintenance. Fiberglass versions are more practical. The Hinckley Picnic Boat brought the style mainstream. Values range from working-boat prices to yacht-class investments depending on builder and condition.

Clubs

  • Maine Windjammer Association
  • Traditional Small Craft Association
  • WoodenBoat community

Events

  • Maine Boat Builders Show
  • WoodenBoat Show (Mystic)
  • Camden Windjammer Weekend

Sources