Nestled in the picturesque fishing village of Bernard, on Mount Desert Island, Maine, the Classic Boat Shop stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for maritime tradition. More than just a builder, this full-service yard has carved out a unique niche, becoming synonymous with the elegant Pisces 21 daysailer while also serving as a vital hub for classic boat restoration, repair, storage, and brokerage services.
The Origin Story
The Classic Boat Shop was founded in 1996 by Jean Beaulieu and his wife, Margaret. While specific details of Jean Beaulieu's background before founding the company are not extensively documented, his connection to the Maine yachting scene is evident, with a prior mention of an invitation to work for Morris Yachts. This suggests a foundation of experience and passion within the marine industry. Their vision for Classic Boat Shop was to create a place that not only built new vessels but also cherished and maintained the legacy of classic boats, offering personalized service and lasting value for their clients.
The company's defining new build, and arguably its most iconic vessel, is the Pisces 21. While the Classic Boat Shop provides a range of services, the Pisces 21 is exclusively built by them. This fiberglass daysailer, known for its timeless lines, represents a modern interpretation of a classic design, embodying the shop's commitment to combining traditional aesthetics with contemporary construction.
History and Evolution
Since its founding in 1996, the Classic Boat Shop has steadily grown its reputation, particularly through its dedicated craftsmanship of the Pisces 21. A significant milestone was achieved in 2016 when the yard launched its 50th Pisces 21, underscoring the enduring popularity and success of this particular model.
The company's evolution has seen it firmly establish itself as a full-service marine facility, moving beyond just new construction to encompass comprehensive boat repairs, secure storage solutions, and a robust yacht brokerage service. This diversified approach allows them to cater to a broad spectrum of boating enthusiasts, from those seeking a new classic daysailer to owners of vintage vessels requiring meticulous care.
Design Philosophy and Identity
The Classic Boat Shop holds a respected reputation in the sailing world for its commitment to quality, classic aesthetics, and personalized service. They are known for their focus on "little yachts with a touch of the unusual and a bit of class." Their design philosophy revolves around working closely with each owner, providing tailored service for custom one-off projects or semi-custom hull finishing, ensuring lasting value for their clients' investments. Jean Beaulieu, the owner, is noted for his ability to see beyond the vessel itself, understanding the owner and their unique stories.
A crucial aspect of their identity lies in their collaboration with renowned naval architects. The iconic Pisces 21, their signature new build, was designed by the esteemed Chuck Paine. Beaulieu and Paine worked together to create the fiberglass Pisces 21, skillfully adapting the lines of older "Fish boats" to produce a contemporary classic. This partnership exemplifies the Classic Boat Shop's dedication to preserving classic design principles while embracing modern materials and construction techniques.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The undisputed flagship of the Classic Boat Shop's new construction portfolio is the Pisces 21 Daysailer. Designed by Chuck Paine, this elegant fiberglass sailboat captures the essence of traditional daysailers while offering the benefits of modern materials. Its design was inspired by the classic Herreshoff Fish Class, re-scaled to create a beautiful and capable vessel. The production of over 50 units by 2016 highlights its success and impact within the niche of classic-styled daysailers. The Pisces 21 is consistently listed as the primary model associated with the Classic Boat Shop in brokerage listings.
While the Pisces 21 is their exclusive new build, the Classic Boat Shop's legacy extends to its comprehensive services for a wide array of classic boats. They are highly regarded for their expertise in restoring, repairing, and maintaining vintage vessels, ensuring that these maritime treasures continue to grace the waters for generations to come. Their work contributes significantly to the preservation of maritime heritage, allowing owners to enjoy the unique charm and history of classic yachts.
The Builder Today
Today, the Classic Boat Shop remains a vibrant and integral part of the marine community in Bernard, Maine. It operates as a focused enterprise, with a reported revenue of approximately $4 million and a dedicated team of five employees. The company continues to be owned and led by Jean Beaulieu.
The modern boats built by the Classic Boat Shop, primarily the Pisces 21, appeal to discerning individuals who appreciate classic aesthetics, quality craftsmanship, and a personalized ownership experience. Owners of Pisces 21s often benefit from the specialized support and expertise provided by the original builder. Beyond new construction, the Classic Boat Shop's robust service offerings, including repairs, storage, and brokerage, cater to a broader community of classic boat enthusiasts, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among those who value maritime tradition. The shop takes pride in "finding, caring for and offering an eclectic blend of little yachts with a touch of the unusual and a bit of class."
