This web site will hold images and information regarding the initial thoughts about purchasing the vessel, some images, and some interesting happenings along the way.
I first saw the Dufour sitting abandoned in an out of the way marina in Bayfield Wisconsin about 7 years ago. The boat was covered with a tarp, was very dark inside and looked like something that would not fit my needs. I was at the time in a partnership with 3 other teachers in a San Juan 7.7 which was a great little boat with a good turn of speed, in fact we did well in several of the local races. I was part of this boat for 7 great years.
3 years later interest in the boat returned as I noticed it was still on the hard and thought the boat would be a great project boat. I still am in the process of working each spare minute I have.
October 2011 will be the start of year 4 of restoration. Original plans (this spring) were to launch sometime the summer of 2011. Due to circumstances beyond my control, the launch will be delayed until the summer/spring of 2013. This will allow me some additional time to make sure everything gets done right... also a chance to save monies for the engine...
With the boat being uncovered due to the degrading tarps, the boat had more water trapped inside, making us think the seller may be more willing to bargain.
After a few trips to the boat, some bartering with the dealership, the purchase our dream boat became a reality.
Just finished emptying out a lot of water that has been accumulating over the years. A good sign though was no water was leaking out...the floor boards were plywood and will be replaced with a Teak and Holly flooring the spring of 2013. As you can imagine the wood to the sides of the floor had water damage and will need to be replaced.
Here she is parked back into the woods in Bayfield. Had to do a little work on removing some foliage and a tire had to be replaced.
View of the port quarter berth. Once the cushions, bulkhead, counter were removed it exposed a lot of mold and mildew (in picts later) we knew that some elbow grease and TLC would make her shine. Mold and mildew was through out the boat given it was closed up and water was able to find it's way in.
The wood used is African Mahogany.. very nice looking.
Trailer needed new wiring, and lights. Mark put his welding skills to use repairing the hitch that was damaged.
Very strong, well built triple axle trailer as part of the deal.
