Many naval architects and builders have succeeded with recreational boats that evolved from working-class vessels. In just about every issue of Passagemaker, there are new builds with full-displacement hulls, reverse-raked windshields and wide side decks protected by high bulwarks and beefy, stainless-steel railings. Alongside these new builds, converted workboats often have attractive profiles and roomy interiors ripe for refit.
The workaday, Down East DNA of a lobster boat has launched innumerable recreational iterations. With their handsome, strong profiles, roomy cockpits and enclosed cabins, the boats are an ideal blend of functionality and grace. Our challenge for this concept, Project Langosta, was to use the classic lobster boat profile as a starting point to design a comfortable, speedy cruiser that would function as a platform for day-tripping, water sports and long weekends on the hook.
Her exterior balance is straightforward. The design for the wraparound and side windows (and the superstructure’s general appearance) was inspired by the quirkiness of 1950s aviation design, notably Grumman’s flying boats such as the Goose, Widgeon and Albatross. To achieve this, we shaved the superstructure smooth and removed the A-pillar, granting better visibility and light in the pilothouse.
In the after portion of the hardtop, we added a brushed steel arch inspired by the dramatic roofline of the Porsche 911 Targa models. It can be left as an eye-catching design element or utilized for the mounting hardware.
The cockpit will have a modular setup that can be tightened in the deck through a pin-lock system easily changed to the owner’s whims. The basic setup will have a U-shaped settee to port adjacent to a credenza (with cooktop and refrigeration) that runs along her starboard flank. We prefer to leave the after section of the cockpit open for sun lounging or activities, perhaps angling or for pulling nets heavy with spot prawns.
In the wheelhouse, a portside, U-shaped bench is at the ideal height for watching the world go by. The starboard helm has optimal views in all directions and is just steps away from the gullwing-style doors to either side, allowing quick access to the side deck with a recessed grab rail along the pilothouse roof.
A central companionway on centerline leads belowdecks to a forward, en suite master stateroom. Two guest staterooms with a shared head complete the accommodations plan.
We decided to power her with waterjets matched to 1,100-hp engines, a combination that ensures excellent handling characteristics, a good turn of speed and access to skinny waters. Like her original workboat brethren, she has a switchable double dry-to-wet exhaust. She can make a racket if you want.
This article was originally published in the July/August 2024 issue.
