“I grew up on the Jersey shore and just gravitated to boating at a very early age. “
Inisfail, MJM 34’
Interview with the Captain – David Gelles
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy this boat and what else did you consider?
My preference in boat style had been changing over the years and I was becoming drawn more and more to the down east style of boats, and started researching and looking for a used one in the high 30 foot + range. After viewing MJM’s, Sabre’s, Back Coves and Hinckley’s, I finally decided that the MJM 34Z was the best choice for our needs and met my criteria of having a diesel engine, straight shaft and prop, easily serviceable, well made (by Boston Boat Works) and seaworthy with great handling capabilities, and that could be docked by one person. I found Inisfail on the market for sale in Santa Barbara, CA after spending months waiting for a 34Z to come on the market, she was the only one available and I quickly made an offer as this classic model is no longer made and doesn’t last long or come up often on the market. No regrets and had her shipped back to the east coast (she previously resided in Marble Head, Massachusetts).
I also looked at Hinckley’s, Saber’s and Back Coves.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
Classic good looks, performance, the simplicity of a single inboard diesel engine with a straight shaft and prop. Additionally, her ease of handling in all types of sea’s and weather and ease of performing maintenance tasks.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
I’m hoping to add a Bimini top for next summer season to provide shade while sitting on the most comfortable Adirondack bench seats on the aft deck.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
None to date.
Who first introduced you to boating?
I grew up on the Jersey shore and just gravitated to boating at a very early age. I also attended a sailboat camp at age 8 and I guess it was the sailboat instructor who first got me started.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a boat like yours?
Do your research, keep in my mind they have a high resale value due to their longevity and superior materials and workmanship. If it needs work I’d still buy it and refurbish it, this model stopped being produced in 2009 and in todays world it’s hard to find a true inboard diesel boat without a stern drive or ips system.
Any recent boating-related purchase you’ve been enjoying (e.g. product/tool/equipment etc)?
I had a generator installed spring of 2021 as when she was built a generator was not chosen. The panel was pre wired and installation was not to difficult as a dedicated area was built into her from the factory for a generator. It’s great being able to run the AC during our hot and humid months in DC.
Do you have any other notable resources you use (apps, devices, etc)?
No
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
I’m the 3rd owner and the original owner named her Inisfail (meaning poetic Ireland) I liked the name for it being different and kept it.
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Inisfail!
