Chris Smith built his first boat in 1874 at the age of 13 in Algonac, Michigan. It was a simple lake boat for duck hunting, but demonstrated an extraordinary natural talent for working with wood. It wasn’t long before Chris and his brother Hank began building a succession of wooden boats. By the beginning of… [Read More]
Learning
History of Riva Boats
Riva became a worldwide symbol of quality, elegance, speed and status under the leadership of Carlo Riva. With Riva’s uncompromising quality and superior materials, this renowned name became the only choice of kings and queens, emperors, princess and sultans, actors and sportsmen, matinee idols, the international jet set and business tycoons worldwide. Famous names include… [Read More]
Vintage Wooden Boats Maintenance
A vintage watercraft is truly unique when compared to other high-value collectibles. Their beauty and craftsmanship are only part of the joy they bring to their owners. Rather than sit in a garage or on display, they are meant to be used. As such, they demand occasional care and attention. At Mahogany Bay, we can… [Read More]
Frequently Asked Questions About Vintage Wooden Boats
What is my boat worth? We make it a policy not to appraise any boat without actually evaluating it in person. There are many potential problem areas that are difficult to assess even in person. A description over the telephone cannot come close to providing enough information. Even photos of a boat are really not… [Read More]
History of Hacker-Craft: Custom-Made Boats
Hacker-Craft boats are known the world over for their fine craftsmanship and sleek V-bottom design which allows greater speed at lower horsepower. Founded in Detroit by John Ludwig Hacker, Hacker-Craft has been a part of the wood boat scene for over 100 years. Hacker was born on May 24, 1877, and studied speedboat design while… [Read More]
History of Skiff Craft Boats
The Skiff Craft boat company has been in business for over 95 years, founded originally in 1904 as the Henry Boat Company near Peterborough, Ontario, by two Canadian boat builders, Victor and Stanley Henry. They created their reputation by building quality wooden boats able to withstand the harsh waters of Canada’s often seaworthy lakes and… [Read More]
Why Vintage Boats Make Great Investments
Owning a vintage boat is an investment opportunity. With a limited number of these unique beauties left, their worth will only appreciate with time. Wood boats are in many ways functional sculpture – beautiful designs and unequaled craftsmanship combine to form appreciating works of art that are as pleasing to look at as they are… [Read More]
History of Ventnor Boat Works
In a small boat yard in Ventnor, New Jersey, Ventnor Boat Works has gained fame as the builder of the world’s fastest custom speed boats since 1902. Founded by Adolph Apel, Ventnor has developed a tradition of expert craftsmanship incorporated with fine boat building. During much of the formidable years prior to World War II,… [Read More]