annapolis yacht yard

The Vosper 71-foot Motor Torpedo Boat PT-728 in 2015:   In looking at the disposition column in the Tables 2, 3, 4, and 5 above, the only verified existing Annapolis Yacht Yard-built Vosper MTBs are owned by the Liberty Aviation Museum in Port Clinton, OH.  Both need a lot of restoration work.  From a deck and profile standpoint, PT-728 was restored to resemble an 80-foot Elco.  In my opinion, it is a Vosper, and should be restored as such.  But then, I'm not funding the restoration either.

Vosper 71-foot MTB Engineering Drawings:   Below are several photos of the top outline drawing of PT-723.  This was on one of the tables in the office next to the current restoration.  As of my visit, the restoration staff at the Museum did not have a complete set of drawings.  The photos below provide key information normally not found on the 71-foot Vosper.

PT-728 Walk-Around photos:   The following group of photos is from a return visit I made to the Museum in April 2019.  PT-728 is back in the boat house in the museum and is being completely rebuilt.  The museum has hired a boatwright wooden boat experience to lead the project.  Photos below show details on the rebuild of the boat as of April 2019.  For those interested in PT boats and their construction, I recommend a trip to the museum to personally view the work being done.

PT-724 Walkaround:   The photos below show PT-728 in April 2019.  There is a wooden framework over the entire boat, intended to hold a protective tarp in place.  The tarp blew off during the winter of 2018-19, and had not yet been replaced.

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The Annapolis Yacht Yard

From 1937 to 1947, the Annapolis Yacht Yard operated on Spa Creek at what is now 222 Severn Avenue.

In the early 1930s, Chris B. Nelson and N. Erik Almen were partners in the New York firm of Nelson-Reid, Inc. Chris Nelson was a 1921 graduate of MIT in naval architecture and began a career as a draftsman for a New York firm of yacht designers, Tams, LeMoyne and King. He left there and went to work at the Dawn Boat Co. eventually becoming a designer and vice-president. Erik Almen apprenticed at the John Hanson Company in New York and became a knowledgeable yacht broker and gifted salesmen. They became friends and associates, and nurtured a successful relationship in the yacht brokerage business. [1]

Chris and Erik talked about relocating their business to another area on the East Coast, preferably on the Chesapeake Bay. They thought it would be a good idea to have a boatyard to build and sell their own designs. Chris came to Annapolis and saw the dormant Chance Marine Construction Company property on Spa Creek. They saw Annapolis as a growing yachting community, and their business was building yachts; very fine yachts for wealthy people. Chris thought it was a great place. So he came back to New York and told Eric about the yard and Annapolis. They wanted to get out of New York and when they envisioned the opportunity in Annapolis they decided to relocate. [2]

In 1937, Chris B. Nelson, Frederick L. Reid, and N (Nils) Erik Almen purchased Chance Marine Construction from the Reconstruction Finance Corp and founded The Annapolis Yacht Yard at what is now 222 Severn Ave.

What the Nelson-Almen partnership purchased from the RFC was a collection of buildings which dated back to 1913, but the buildings were functional. There was a large boat shed, a machine shop, joiner shop, lumber sheds and offices - all the space needed for Chris Nelson to begin designing the Annapolis Cruiser - a beautiful motoryacht that Erik Almen was a master at selling. [3]

July 1937, An ad was placed in Motorboating magazine announcing the acquisition of the “finest yacht-building plant” on the East Coast. The Annapolis Yacht Yard was open for business after renovations and upgrades. Annapolis Yacht Yard offices were located at 110 East 42nd Street, New York and the plant at Annapolis, Maryland. Officers of the new corporation: Chris B. Nelson- President, Frederick Reid- Vice President, and N. Erik Almen- Secretary-Treasurer.

Repair and yacht maintenance provides cash flow to any boatyard. Nelson and Almen recognized this as a major income stream to augment their new business of yacht design and construction. It kept the men working when orders for new yachts were slow. William T. Morris, president of the American Chain & Cable Company in York, Pennsylvania owned a 99-foot yacht, Sayon . It was a George Lawley design built in 1926, and a classic 1920s houseboat. Morris cruised the waters of the Chesapeake Bay aboard the yacht whenever he had the opportunity. During the late 1930s, Morris frequented Annapolis - he enjoyed the quiet surroundings of the harbor and the Annapolis Yacht Yard was a place that provided a facility to have his yacht maintained. A friendship developed between Morris, Nelson and Almen. On many occasions they spent time together at the Annapolis Yacht Club talking about boats, business and politics. Morris, a wealthy industrialist, was captivated by the entrepreneurial spirit of these two young gifted men. One of the topics they talked about was the war in Europe and the possibility of America’s involvement. Planners in Washington were watching as events began to evolve. The United States Navy was particularly concerned and the Navy began assessing its requirements for the future. [4]

World War II

With the war looming in Europe, business growth and to help with production. The offices in New York were closed and moved to Yard in Annapolis. N. Erik Almen took over general manager of the plant while Chris B. Nelson concentrated on contracts and designs.

Realizing the United States would eventually become involved in the war, Chris Nelson traveled to England in late 1940 to secure the rights to build a 70-foot Vosper PT boat at the Annapolis Yacht Yard for the British Royal Navy. PT boats were a new concept in coastal naval warfare and the British were on the leading edge of design and construction. Nelson went because he won the coin toss with Almen. If it had been tails this story would be about Erik Almen. But, Nelson returned to America on March 12, 1941, with a bundle of plans he believed were detailed drawings of the 70-ft Vosper PT boat designed by Peter DuCane, a naval architect who headed Vosper Limited. Nelson went to the British Purchasing Mission in Washington to secure a contract to replicate the design and build the boats in Annapolis. The reply was surprising: Sorry, but Lend-Lease was passed yesterday by Congress, you will have to negotiate such a contract with your navy. Chris Nelson went to the Bureau of Ships and met with Admiral Ned Cochrane, head of the Bureau. After he told his story and unveiled his plans, the Annapolis Yacht Yard was soon awarded the first of many contracts to build Vosper PT boats in Annapolis for the British Royal Navy and later, the Russian Navy. [5]

One month later, on April 1, 1941, the Annapolis Yacht Yard was awarded its first contract to build two 110-foot subchasers for the U. S. Navy. It later served in the Pacific and the occupation of Guam in 1944. One month before the end of the war the boat foundered in the Solomon Islands. [6]

On July 16, 1941, the Nelson-Almen partnership received its first contract to build a 70-foot Vosper PT boat for the British Royal Navy - the first of 28 PT boats to be built in one year’s time. New facilities would be needed and a larger shed was required. The Annapolis Yacht Yard began an expansion program, thanks to an investment of more than $200,000 from William T. Morris - the mentor to Chris Nelson and Erik Almen. [7]

The first Vosper Torpedo Boat was launched the spring of 1942. At the height of the war, the Annapolis Yacht Yard completed a PT Boat every 5 days.

During the war years, celebrities visited factories, military installations and yes, even boatyards. Hollywood actress Ann Baxter visited the Annapolis Yacht Yard in 1943 to promote a war bond drive. [8] The Yard was very active in raising funds for the war effort - hosting Basketball and Baseball games, War Bond drives, and dinners at Carvel Hall.

By 1943, the Annapolis Yacht Yard had more than 500 men on the payroll. It was the largest single private employer in Annapolis. The paychecks helped to anchor the many small family-owned businesses in the local economy during the war years. In March of that year, the yard received a contract to build 30 Vospers for the Russian Navy. [9]

On May 14, 1943, Annapolis Yacht Yard was awarded the Army-Navy E flag “for meritorious and distinguished service to their country in time of need.” The ceremony took place at Annapolis High School with Rear Admiral John R. Beardall presenting the flag to Chris B. Nelson.

Lt. Col Paul J. McGahan, representing the War Department, presented the employees with an “E” pin.

By the end of the war, The Annapolis Yacht Yard had produced, 10 sub chasers for the US Navy, 28 Vosper P.T. boats for the British Royal Navy and 100 Vosper P.T. boats for the Soviet Navy.

After the conclusion of World War II, the Nelson-Almen partnership returned to designing and building the Annapolis Cruiser. The designs became more sleek and even more graceful and luxurious. [10]

After Chris B. Nelson’s sudden death on July 5, 1947, and a slow down of production, The Annapolis Yacht Yard was sold to John Trumpy, Sr.

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SAILYARD LEGACY

We're not just a yacht brokerage—we’re a legacy.

Buying or selling a boat is a commitment to new beginnings.It is a decision to invest in adventure and freedom as you set sail for highest potential.

Each boat and every person has a unique story and purpose. We will meet you where you are and deliver you to your desired destination.

When you embark upon a journey with Annapolis Sailyard at the helm, you can surrender to the process knowing that we value you, the customer, and are fully committed to service, relationship, and sustainability.

Annapolis Sailyard is the oldest yacht brokerage in the Maritime Republic of Eastport in Annapolis, Maryland.

For nearly five decades we have been providing high-quality service and expertise in yacht purchase and sales for both sailboats and power boats. We have long term working relationships with multiple highly distinctive yacht manufacturers.

At the Sailyard, we are experienced sailors who have walked the weathered deck and made passages of our own.

SAILYARD INVENTORY

Whether you want to power up or set sail, we can align you with the perfect boat for your lifestyle. Scroll and click through some of our compelling options below!

Bertram 28 "About Time"

The venerable design, smooth, dry ride, and constant upkeep at Gibson Island make "About Time" a fantastic example of this iconic boat. See her at the Annapolis Powerboat Show!

2002 Nordic Tugs 37

Estate sale of a long time owner on the Chesapeake Bay; we have known this boat since new. With a little TLC (which we can help with), she will shine and cruise for decades more. Less than 1500 hours, fully equipped!

Taswell 44 AS

RARE OPPORTUNITY for this Taswell 44 AS- beautiful, capable cruiser, and very well kept! Ready for you now!

Sabre 36 Extended Flybridge!

"Jane Marie" is a fantastic offering in the sought after Sabre Extended Flybridge market. She is well cared-for and ready to go!

Najad Aphrodite 42

This is a PRISTINE, Swedish built, comfortable and stable blue water cruiser. She sails very well and looks even better. We have not seen a boat kept up better nor longer lasting than this beauty. She is fully equipped to cruise and ready for a lucky new owner.

Off the Charts is an extensively upgraded 1996 60 Viking Sport Cruiser- a fine example of Viking Yachts engineering and design, expansive interior space-features of a luxurious motor yacht with outstanding performance makes this truly a unique vessel.

1987 Tashiba 36, $125k

ONE-OF-A-KIND opportunity to own a classic Ta Shing Tashiba 36 that is restored like new, at a fraction of replacement value. BEAUTIFUL, capable cruiser!

2004 Nordic Tugs 37/39

Original owner, well-cared for, cruised and attended to, 1500 hours!

Allied Princess Ketch

CLASSIC cruising sailboat. Gabriel is a joy to sail and cruise aboard. Waiting for you at Kent Island Yacht Club. Exceptional value $37,500

Tartan 4100, $99k!

SHOAL DRAFT 5'6" The Tartan 4100 combines modern conveniences and amenities with traditional styling and sailing performance. Ninkasi is a capable cruiser, waiting for you to make her your own. She is on the hard in Annapolis, ready to be seen.

Pearson 424 "Folly II"

Meticulously maintained and upgraded over the past 32 years by present owner. This is a superb cruiser, with countless advantages. Proceed and see for yourself!

The Canadian built Express 35 has a loyal following and "Fantastic" is a VERY well kept example. She is ready to go!

Ta Shing Tashiba 40

1987 Ta Shing Tashiba 40 If you are looking for the ultimate cruising vessel put this great example of the Tashiba 40 on your list.Designed by Robert Perry and built in the exclusive Ta Shing Yard ,this boat will get you anywhere in the world in safety and comfort.

20' Bayliner

You can't beat the unmatched value you get out of a Bayliner! There's plenty of room for you and Friends along with toys to play with! This boat makes a great day boat and has enough power to handle all the water sports! Hurry and make it yours today it won't last long!

2017 Tahoe!

Like the name says, it's a FUNSHIP! Double Decker with water slide off top back. Double anchors, Grill, Upgraded Lowrance system (last year), 2017 Honda 250 full tilt outboard motor (works great, yearly maintenance, 80hrs), Kept shrink wrapped in off season out of water on lift. Awesome family boat!

2003 Luhrs 36

Luhrs made sure their boats are a comfortable ride for the passengers while cruising to the fishing grounds. This 36 Open is in fantastic shape and very clean. The upholstery was replaced in January of this year, 2023! The Yanmar engines are 440hp each and have under 1000hrs!

1998 Cabo 31

New Listing! Her 350hp Caterpillar engines have just under 3000hrs on them. More info coming soon.

2016 Parker 25

The 25-ft Parker is an outstanding Bay fishing boat! There are around 570hrs on the engines that run fantastically! Overbuilt in North Carolina these extremely capable boats will take you wherever you want to go! There is a survey available from 2021 and the hours are low.

REMEDY has everything a sailor, couple or small family could want to cruse in comfort. With her sought-after, private center-cockpit layout, dependable diesel, updated and spare sails, and quality build; REMEDY is a great cruising sailboat.

SAILYARD TEAM

When you buy a boat with Annapolis Sailyard, it’s all hands on deck.

Cary Lukens, Owner

Cary is a native Annapolitan and accomplished sailor with a boatload of nautical experiences. His deep commitment to service buoys his intention to align the unique stories of his clients with their personal goals.

Cary’s best life includes spending lots of time with his daughters. So, when not on or around boats you’ll find him chilling with his daughters or practicing yoga -- and quite possibly eating carrots and listening to the Grateful Dead.

In his life before Annapolis Sailyard, Cary was an adolescent and family counselor at a state-run psychiatric hospital.

One time on the water...

Cary’s most memorable boat experience was sailing off the Pacific coast of Mexico with clients and seeing the Lost Soul.

In his words

“In another life I’m pretty sure I was a pirate with a soft streak.”

Direct contact

443.995.5553

[email protected]

Arn, aka the Old Guy, has been at Sailyard since 1998, and when you sit down with him, you encounter a lifelong boater and natural storyteller who enjoys sharing his vast knowledge while making a new friend.

Before Sailyard, Arn was an Engineer in the Navy, a Hershey Executive, co-creator and patent holder of bicycle braking systems, and an Eagle Scout and Adult Scout Leader who helped pioneer a new innovative Boy Scout Leadership program.

When not on or around boats you can find Arn fly fishing for trout, trying new foods, or listening to the Big Bands of the 30’s and 40’s. And he never boards his boat without his knife, reading material, and sunglasses.

Stellar sailing memory...

“My most notable sailing experience was being in the middle of the Atlantic on a bright starry night and feeling I could scoop up a thousand stars in my hand.”

Fave quotation

Arn’s favorite quote is from the movie, Harvey, when Jimmy Stewart says, “Years ago my mother used to say to me, she'd say, ‘In this world, Elwood, you must be,’ she always called me Elwood, ‘you must be, oh so smart, or oh so pleasant.’”

“Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant.”

Arn Reistad, Jr.

Arne Reistad III, Vice President

A lifelong boater and liveaboard, Arne is eager to share his expertise and energy with you. When he is not out on boats, Arne travels and shares videos with his followers.

A funny thing at Miami Boat Show...

While crossing the street at the Miami Boat Show, Arne encountered a cute little dog “directing traffic.” After he helped her to the sidewalk, Arne met the owner who confessed that he could not look after her, and offered Arne the dog. A few days and a one-way rental car later, “Chi Chi” was getting used to the weather in Annapolis, where she would become the Sailyard mascot!

Whether my clients are buying or selling a sailboat or powerboat, my aim is to provide good service. I love helping my clients and sharing about the enjoyment of boating.

Direct Contact

717-250-2915 (mobile)

[email protected]

Rich has been sailing and selling boats since the 1980’s. He is a former Baba 35 owner and has unmatched experience with Ta Shing boats. Rich is also a native “Baltimoron” and a former probation officer- so he’ll make sure you are on track. But the best part about Rich is his lovely wife Elaine.

Captain's Log...

Rich and Elaine love boating on their current yacht, a Mast & Mallet Thomas Point 43. That boat, and their prior boat, a Baba 35, have both been up and down the coast and out to the islands; and so have Rich and Elaine.

Eastport locals...

Rich and Elaine live two blocks from Annapolis Sailyard and are active in the Maritime Republic of Eastport. Knowing Rich is like knowing a whole community! Rich also loves sports and is an avid follower of University of Maryland Basketball, The Orioles, and The Ravens (but Yankee and Steeler fans still welcome here).

410-980-5096 (mobile)

[email protected]

Home waters

Capt. John grew up fishing and crabbing in Mayo and Edgewater, Maryland, and graduated from South River High School in 1996. After his military service, John found his way back to home waters in 2018 (the bay will always be his home). As a Professional Yacht Broker and licensed Captain, John is always searching for the perfect boat for his customers.

Shortly after high school, John joined the US Army and served for a couple decades, in Iraq, Texas, and California.

Living the dream

John is currently living the dream aboard his boat on the Chesapeake Bay, while helping others realize their own boating dreams.

Cell Phone: (209) 297-1314

email: [email protected]

John Guidotti

SAILYARD STORIES

For more than 40 years we’ve had a positive relationship with the Chesapeake Bay boating community.

Here are some of their stories.

I’ve been singing your praises to those who grumble about unloading their boats in the yard. I hope more happy customers like myself find their way to you.

We were impressed with cary’s good listening skills, receptivity to our needs, his caring approach, and professionalism. he knows the market well and gave us good advise..

—Jacques and Sheila

Thank you for your assistance in making my dream come true! And also for putting up with my panic emails and phone calls. We arrived in the NYC Harbour on September 24th at noon. The boat ran perfectly for the entire trip and fuel consumption was excellent.

We want to say thank you for your continued support. since out first introduction, we have been most impressed with your kindness, knowledge and dedication to your clients. when we first met, we told you honestly that we would not be in the boat buying market for five years, yet you happily helped us kick some jack stands and narrow down the type of boat we were looking for. we will be eternally grateful for the tie you took with us in the early stages. when we made the commitment to buy a boat you were right there with us, even as far as mexico. your advice helped us get the boat we love. since our purchase five years ago, you remain a loyal friend and have offered innumerable advice and help. thank you.

—David and Nancy

This past summer with Wolfe has been fantastic! My Dad and I appreciate the help you gave us during the overview and purchase! We very much appreciated your service and time. In future years when looking for a boat, we will definitely turn to your expertise!

—Sam and Kent

SAILYARD GUIDE

Consider us boat matchmakers.

We have decades of experience with the best cruising boat manufactures. Because we are experts in all things nautical, you can rest assured you will get the boat that’s right for you.

Nordic Tugs

Nordic Tugs are hand crafted to for the cruising lifestyle. Wherever Nordic Tug owners go, they travel in comfort and confidence, knowing their vessel is one of the most seaworthy cruisers on the market today.

Taswell Yachts are high performance cruising yachts crafted in Taiwan by Ta Shing Yacht Building Company. Designer Bill Dixon combined the elegance of wood with the technology of fiberglass then created these vessels with comfortable interiors and suitable for the rough seas.

Designed by Robert Perry and built in America since 1972, these yachts have logged over 3,000,000 offshore miles including circumnavigations and short-handed ocean crossings, more than any other brand of sailboat ever built!

These compact and versatile trawlers are designed by Bob Warman and known for their spacious comfort, easy handling, low maintenance and classic look.

Baba Yachts were designed by Bob Perry and built by Ta Shing from 1977 through 1985. They are sturdy vessels suitable for making long offshore and ocean passages needing only a couple of people to crew the boat.

Tayana Yachts are high quality offshore sailing vessels that are easily handled by a couple, powerful enough to cross oceans, comfortable enough to live aboard, and beautiful enough to bring tears to your eyes.

326 First Street, Annapolis, MD 21403

Hours: by appointment, widely available

Phone: 410.268.4100

Come see us in our beautiful location in Yacht Haven in Eastport/Annapolis. Walk-ins are always welcome!

Ask Us About Our Winter Storage!

Vhf channel 16 | 38°57’42.0”n | 76°28’55.8”w, | make a payment |, 410-268-9667.

Premier Yacht Yard On The Chesapeake Bay

Bert jabin's location, 7310 edgewood rd annapolis, md 21403.

About Bert Jabin Yacht Yard

BJYY is one of the largest Certified Clean Marina Facilities in the middle region of the Chesapeake Bay. As an award-winning full-service yacht yard, our services extend beyond year-round hauling and launching. Whether you need a place to dock, pull a motor, or get a paint job, BJYY has over 25 service providers on site to meet your exact needs.

Nestled in the heart of Back Creek, we are both conveniently located and well protected from any strong winds or rough waters. BJYY offers over 200 wet slips, boatlift slips, and boatel dry storage alongside 25 acres of land storage to best serve our customers.

With modern travel lifts, forklifts, cranes, and other equipment, BJYY can ensure the safe and efficient handling of your vessel. Our goal at BJYY is to create an environment where any aspect of boating or marine repair is always at your fingertips.

Prime Location For Boaters

Nestled in the heart of Back Creek in Annapolis, our location is shielded from strong winds and currents, with more than 200 slips providing in-water accommodations for our guests. With modern travel lifts, forklifts and cranes, our equipment ensures easy mobility from haul to launch.

Whether you’re staying for the season or just stopping in for the weekend, BJYY’s ample array of amenities and expert service guarantee a great experience for you and your boat!

Bert Jabin Yard Services

• Winter Storage
• Boat Storage

Haul & Launch

On-site repair & maintenance companies.

Contact Us For More Information

If you have any questions about our marina services please give us a call.

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Three Great Boat Yards, One Location

Service that gets you back on the water

Owning your boat isn’t about sitting on a dock. It’s about being on the open water. That’s our philosophy. AHBY is the only full-service marine maintenance yard and storage facility in Annapolis Harbor. Easily accessible by land or water, with a 35-ton lift right on the harbor, we are available for emergency service at all times. You’re leaving your boat in the right hands.

We can do it.

Contact us for anything your boat might need: carpentry, commissioning, electronics, electrical, fiberglass, Gelcoat, painting, rigging, mechanical, winterization, shrink-wrapping, survey haul-outs, and scheduled or emergency maintenance. If we can’t personally take care of it, we’ll introduce you to one of our partners who can.

We’ll fix or upgrade your boat when it needs it. But there are other things you can get from us, too. When you’re a true boating enthusiast, boating is more than just your hobby. It’s almost a way of life. We’ll help you make the most of your boat and everything that goes with it.

“We feel great knowing that our boat is now safe, and are finding it a pleasure to be out on the water again. We know that we were incredibly fortunate to have brought our boat to AHBY, that we couldn’t have gotten better work done elsewhere, nor found so many helpful, patient and knowledgeable people. AHBY has our highest recommendation on all accounts!” Jeremy & Jaime

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