FRANCES

A GAFF RIGGED PILOT CUTTER OFFERING SAILS TO THE PUBLIC IN PORTLAND HARBOR

Built to replicate the coastal pilot cutters that worked the waters of Maine and New England in the 18th and 19th centuries, the steel hulled FRANCES perfectly illustrates the way varying materials are integral in modern marine work. She came to us with the goal of replacing all wooden elements on deck—companionway, butterfly hatch, and caprails—so they would not only last for decades to come but provide a beautiful accent to the clean lines of this traditional vessel. This project utilized both steel and fiberglass for structural components, and Iroko as the lumber of choice for the new brightwork.