Vim

Downeast / Lobster Yacht (utility & pleasure conversion)

Newbert & Wallace, 1957

VIM (originally OWL) is a 1957 lobster yacht reborn: Artisan replaced 60+ frames, modern systems, and interior rebuild—preserving her classic lines while renewing her for modern service.

Behind the Build

From Lobster Boat to Timeless Yacht

VIM began her life in 1957 as OWL, a mahogany-planked lobster yacht built by Newbert & Wallace in Thomaston, Maine, serving for decades in Islesboro waters before age and maintenance demands finally caught up with her. Artisan Boatworks was commissioned to bring OWL back to life not simply through repairs, but through a comprehensive rejuvenation that strengthened her structure, modernized her systems, refined her comfort, and preserved her character.

Making it Happen

Deep Rebuild, Careful Modernization

Artisan Boatworks approached the restoration with a phased plan that balanced preservation with modernization. The project began at the hull, where more than sixty laminated frames were replaced to reestablish structural soundness. Hull planking was faired, re-fastened, and epoxy-treated, preserving the original mahogany appearance while ensuring durability.

Frame Replacement & Hull Renewal

The team restored the hull’s integrity by installing new frames and addressing every fastening and seam to ensure longevity. Fairing, re-fastening, and epoxy treatment brought the exterior back into alignment while retaining the warm, traditional look of varnished mahogany.

System Upgrades & Hidden Modernization

New wiring, plumbing, control systems, and mechanical equipment were added, but concealed behind cabinetry, bulkheads, and panels to maintain a seamless classic aesthetic. The interior was reconfigured to incorporate modern comforts without breaking visual continuity with her original joinery and wood finishes. A new sound-insulated cockpit platform reduced mechanical noise in the living spaces, and exterior finishes—from paint and varnish to restored bronze hardware—were completed in a heritage style consistent with her origins.

Balancing Old & New

Maintaining authenticity while integrating contemporary functionality required careful craftsmanship. Bronze hardware was used throughout, even where it supported modern systems, and where new components might appear out of place—such as stainless electrical or mechanical fittings—Artisan employed custom bronze electroplating to ensure visual cohesion. This approach allowed modern conveniences such as shore power and electronics to blend discreetly into the yacht’s historic character.

Phased Refit & Quality Control

The restoration progressed through clear stages: stripping, framing, system installation, finish work, and sea trials. At each step, measurements, alignments, and fairing were checked and re-checked to ensure new structures fit flawlessly within the original hull. Drawing on decades of wooden-yacht experience, the team ensured every new component harmonized with the vessel’s existing fabric. In 2013, the renamed VIM was relaunched, displayed at the Maine Boatbuilders Show, and then delivered to her new home in Newport, Rhode Island—reborn as a classic yacht prepared for modern cruising.

Details

Year Built

1957

Builder

Newbert & Wallace

Type

Downeast Lobster Yacht

Restoration Year

2013

Frame Replacements

60+ laminated frames

Systems Upgrades

Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, interior

Finishes

Mahogany, bronze, traditional finishes

Gallery

Features

Details that embody the intention and spirit of the designer

Authentic Exterior Joinery & Hardware

Mahogany planking, bronze hardware, and period detailing retained or sympathetically reproduced.

Sound-Insulated Cockpit Platform

The cockpit structure was rebuilt with noise and vibration damping to improve onboard comfort.

Discreet Modern Systems Integration

All modern systems—plumbing, wiring, HVAC, control systems—are installed behind traditional paneling and cabinetry, nearly invisible to the eye.

Heritage-Sensitive Upgrades

Where modern components are needed, Artisan finishes, conceals, or “disguises” them (e.g. bronze plating over stainless) to maintain visual consistency.

Comprehensive Frame Replacement

Over 60 new laminated frames across the hull, restoring her structural backbone while maintaining original form.

From the Boat Yard

“VIM was more than a rebuild — it was a resurrection. The care to preserve her original soul while outfitting her for 21st-century use is everything we strive for in restoration work.”

Artisan Boatworks Restoration Lead

Yard Voice

Get in Touch

Ready to bring your vision to life? Whether you’re restoring a classic or commissioning something extraordinary, let’s talk about your project. Our team is here to help.

Vim