Pilar, a faithful reproduction of Ernest Hemingway’s 1934, 38-foot Wheeler sportfishing boat of the same name, is now on the market. Built and restored by Shannon Boat Co. under founder and president Walt Schulz, the project took two years and a meticulous approach to mirror the original Pilar. The restoration included replacing the cabin, raising the sheer, and rebuilding the hull with new frames, planking, and fastenings to preserve the vessel’s classic lines and seaworthiness. The boat is configured to carry up to 12 guests, making her suitable for private charters, tours, or sportfishing outings.
Sale proceeds will benefit the Shannon River Marine Heritage Foundation, an organization Schulz established to provide therapeutic yachting experiences for veterans and people with disabilities, helping them connect with the water and gain emotional and physical benefits from boating.
The asking price for Pilar is $375,000. For more information: Shannon Boat Co., Bristol, Rhode Island, (401) 253-2441. sportfish-pilar.com
A LIGHTHOUSE FOR RESEARCH
Perched on San Juan Island, Lime Kiln Light commands sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and Vancouver Island on a clear day. Named for the lime kilns that once processed locally quarried limestone into mortar, the lighthouse was built in 1919 and serves as a navigational aid through Haro Strait. In 1985 the site and surrounding waters were designated a whale sanctuary and research outpost where marine mammal scientists study orca movements, social behavior, and habitat use—an important center for conservation and public education.
The ocean is large and resilient, but it is not too big to fail. What we are taking out of the sea, what we are putting into the sea, are actions that are undermining the most important thing the ocean delivers to humankind: our very existence.
— Sylvia Earle, marine biologist, explorer, author and lecturer
GOING BLUE
Support ocean cleanup with an eco-friendly accessory. This $20 bracelet from 4Ocean is made entirely from recycled materials—glass bottle beads and cord crafted from recycled plastic bottles. Every purchase funds 4Ocean’s efforts to remove trash from marine environments and support ocean conservation programs. 4Ocean, Boca Raton, Florida, (561) 210-7799. 4ocean.com
$340,000 …
…was raised last year by St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation through its annual Swim Across the Sound Marathon. Funds support cancer education, screening, and prevention initiatives. This year marks the 30th annual marathon, scheduled for Aug. 5. St. Vincent’s Medical Center Foundation, Bridgeport, Connecticut, (203) 576-5451. give.stvincents.org
CHASING CLASSICS
Plan a summer trip to Maine and time it for the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta on Aug. 5. Hosted by Brooklin Boat Yard and Rockport Marine, the 15-mile race along Eggemoggin Reach showcases a striking lineup of classic wooden sailboats: Herreshoff yachts, large schooners, Friendship sloops, and other traditional designs frequently participate. The regatta draws enthusiasts of classic boatbuilding and traditional sailing for a day of competition and celebration of maritime heritage. Eggemoggin Reach Regatta, Rockport, Maine, (207) 236-9651. erregatta.com
GOING DEEP
For those who want a rugged camera to document life on the water, JVC’s Everio R camcorders offer a purpose-built option. These models are waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freeze-proof, designed to withstand marine conditions. With about five hours of battery life, optical zoom, an SD card slot, and submersibility to roughly 16 feet, they’re practical for boaters who need durable recording equipment that floats if dropped. The R440D comes with 4 GB internal memory and is available in matte black and orange. $399. JVC, Wayne, New Jersey, (800) 252-5722. jvc.com
WOODY WONDERLAND
Antique and classic boat lovers should mark the Antique & Classic Boat Festival in Salem, Massachusetts, on their calendars. Now in its 35th year, the festival usually draws around 40 vintage motor yachts and sailboats and is set for Aug. 26–27. The event showcases historic boats, offers opportunities to talk with owners and restorers, and celebrates traditional boat craftsmanship. Brewer Hawthorne Cove Marina, Salem, (978) 740-9890. boatfestival.org
This article originally appeared in the August 2017 issue.