“Since ’67 the boat has never missed a summer. ”
No Name, 1967 Boston Whaler Nauset
Interview with the Captain — Joe Sapper
Can you tell us a bit about your classic Whaler and how you came to own it?
My Grandfather (also named Joe Sapper) bought the boat new which he used every summer where he kept it at his shore cottage in East Haven CT. The boat was used for striper fishing as well as a tow boat for water skiers and pleasure cruises with the family. My father (Eric Sapper) used it in his youth and continued to care for it into adulthood when he had a family of his own. As a baby I grew up on the boat going fishing with my dad and grandfather in the mornings and beach picnics off of it with my dad mom and sister. I took over the care of the boat three years ago and repowered it with a 2018 Evenrude Etec 90 H.0.
Did your grandfather own other boats before it?
My Grandfather had a 13’ Whaler as well as a lightning sailboat.
Can you share any special stories/memories you have on your boat with your grandfather? How was the boat originally used and how far has it gone from your homeport?
Every memory and story on this boat is special. It caught a lot of fish, has been out in the worst seas Long Island Sound could throw at it, raised a family and, between my dad and I, was used to entertain many fine young ladies. It’s longest voyage was from the home port of Branford, CT along the CT coast, across to Orient Point and Montauk, then over to circumnavigate Block Island, RI before returning to port.
Who first introduced you to boating?
I was never introduced to boating. It’s always been a part of me.
What are the features you like most about your Whaler?
The 16′ Nauset is a great size boat to explore and fish the shallow and narrow rock outcroppings along the Branford coast.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
My grandfather and father moved the center console aft 6” from its original mounting point and designed a custom mahogany seat to house a 21 gallon fuel tank.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
Since ’67 the boat has never missed a summer. I use it to cruise around, explore the Thimble Islands and go to the beach at Kelsey island, and surface plug for stripers during the fall run.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
The brightwork! Staining and varnishing is a real b**** but nothing looks better.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a classic Boston Whaler like yours?
They are the unsinkable legend. Great boat if you can find one that has been well taken care of.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
Boat does not have a name.
Check it Out
To see more photos of this classic 1967 Boston Whaler Nauset in the Harbor Directory, click the gallery below!
