Whirlwind II
Gilbert Smith–inspired 26-ft Catboat
Ezra Smith & Matthew SmithBlending 19th-century Gil Smith heritage with 21st-century methods, Whirlwind II arises as a living dialogue between past and present — a catboat reborn in phases at Artisan Boatworks.
A Living Legacy of the Smith Cat
The restoration of Whirlwind II was not merely a boatbuilding project, but a deeply personal endeavor to resurrect a vessel of memory and heritage for its owner, Yarrow Thorne. He sought to weave lineage, artistry, and the joy of sailing into a modern craft that captured the spirit of his great-grandfather’s original Gil Smith catboat. The project’s core objectives were manifold, starting with historical fidelity: the hull form, proportions, and classic Smith catboat aesthetics were meticulously guided by the original half-model of Mariam and extensive archival research.
Craft, Precision & Narrative in Motion
The successful revival of Whirlwind II required an innovative solution that precisely balanced tradition with modern engineering and construction. This comprehensive approach ensured that the vessel maintained the aesthetic fidelity and spirit of the original Gil Smith catboat while benefiting from contemporary durability and performance. The project solution hinged on meticulous research and digital reconstruction to recreate the historical hull form, followed by the strategic use of hybrid construction methods to guarantee longevity. Crucially, the entire process was managed through a phased build structure, deliberately weaving the creation of the boat into a public narrative that engaged the maritime community at every milestone.
Research & Digital Reconstruction
Since original, full design drawings were unavailable, the team used the Mariam half-model from the Suffolk County Historical Society, combined with laser scanning and 3D modeling to reconstruct a fair hull shape. Ezra Smith and Matthew Smith translated those scanned lines into a working 3D hull model, then expanded scantlings and structure to modern standards—matching the original character but undergirding it with durable engineering.
Details
Gallery
Features
Details that embody the intention and spirit of the designer
Laser-scanned Hull from Historical Half-Model
Whirlwind II’s hull form is derived from a detailed scan of Gil Smith’s Mariam half model, enabling precise reproduction of the timeless curves.
Strip Planking + Fiberglass Sheathing Hybrid
A modern “best of both worlds” build: exposed wood aesthetics with protective E-glass outer skin to reduce maintenance.
Carbon Fiber Spars & Modern Rigging
The mast, boom, and running rigging are optimized with contemporary materials, reducing weight aloft and improving handling while retaining the visual language of classic catboats.
Traditional Fit & Finish with Subtle Modern Touches
Every visible detail—coamings, seats, tiller, hardware—is styled in period fashion, but built with better materials (e.g. hidden reinforcements, modern adhesives).
Phased Process as Narrative Platform
Instead of a behind-closed-doors build, Whirlwind II’s construction is designed for public witnessing: sequential phases, visual updates, and media to draw connection between craft, culture, and community.
From the Boat Yard
