The 23 foot Seacraft has long been the hull of choice for Cape Cod fishermen. The patented Variable Deadrise Hull provides a stable fishing platform and a soft ride in almost any sea condition. I have owned and operated a Seacraft for the last 25 years, and it has always gotten me home, no matter how badly the weather deteriorated!
In the spring of 2008, I began looking for a replacement for my aging SeaCraft. None of the new production hulls I test-drove gave me the feeling of security and familiarity that my SeaCraft provided. The new boats had awkward interior configurations with bulky compartments molded into rails and transoms, limiting deck space for anglers and providing ineffective storage. It became apparent that to have the boat I really wanted; a custom design would be required.
Conversations with Acadia Boat Works in July of 2008 convinced me that a complete rebuild of my trusted 1972 SeaCraft would provide me with the fishing machine I was looking for. The rebuild converted the boat from inboard/outboard to outboard power. A custom outboard bracket from Hermco of Florida extended the overall boat length to 26 feet. A Suzuki DF 300 provided quiet, dependable power and lightning speed. Plans were drawn for a custom deck, center console, leaning post with tackle storage station and hardtop. Every part was designed to optimize available space, utilize the latest marine components and maximize fishing performance. Design sessions with Eric Kent of Kentfab Aluminum Fabrication provided plans for the hard top framing and the addition of a buggy top and second station controls to optimize fish-spotting capabilities.
Work commenced in August of 2008. The hull was entirely stripped and the rebuild began. State-of-the-art epoxies and resins, lightweight synthetic core materials and vacuum lamination technologies were employed throughout the process. Meticulous handcrafting proved time consuming but the end result, ready for service in the spring of 2012, is the ultimate fishing machine for Cape Cod waters. I look forward to having you aboard with me this season on the new and improved Dragonfly.
Cap’n Mike