“We enjoy having the ability to cruise up on the tower during the hot summer days and also being able to entertain guests below under the hard top, when the weather doesn’t cooperate.“
Beacon, Blackwatch 30′
Interview with the Captain — Ben Koopman
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Blackwatch?
Cecily and I wanted a boat that we could entertain, cruise and fish on. The open layout, newer Cummins diesels and 24 knot cruise speed were very appealing for this particular boat. The 11 foot beam, enclosed head/shower and comfortable sleeping arrangements also played a big factor in choosing the boat.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this model?
We were considering downeast boats in the 30-32 foot range but couldn’t seem to find the right one that would allow us to grow into.
How did you come to find / locate her before purchasing?
My Fiancé, Cecily Cushman actually found the boat in Florida. She flew down and met with the seller and broker and gave it a thumbs up. Once she gave the green light, I flew down to Fort Lauderdale and arranged a sea trial and survey 3 days later.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
My Grandfather, Dexter Koopman and my Father, Doug Koopman. Every weekend during the summer I would either be sailing on my Grandfather’s LeComte Northeast 38 (Liberty) or cruising to Manchester/Browns Island on my father’s previously owned Mako’s or current 23 Regulator (Four Buoys).
What boats have you previously owned?
Cecily and I previously owned a 24-foot Nauset/Tripp Angler, Beacon. We purchased the boat in Gloucester and had it restored by Greaves Marine Finishes in Marblehead.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
The features we enjoy the most are easily the layout, stability and the tower. Beacon feels and rides much bigger than a 30-foot boat. We enjoy having the ability to cruise up on the tower during the hot summer days and also being able to entertain guests below under the hard top, when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
Fortunately, the boat is in great shape. The only major thing we have done is replacing the windshield.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
Due to COVID, we weren’t able to get as much long distance cruising as we would have liked. However, we launched the boat in mid-April and hauled out in late October, so we did get a lot of use out of Beacon. We mainly cruised around the north shore, with the occasional trip into Boston.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
So far, we haven’t had any major issues where servicing is needed. However, my father is very handy and helps me with a lot of small projects. In years to come, I would like to find a cummins mechanic who can help with any potential issues.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Blackwatch?
I would recommend sea trialing the boat and getting used to the twin engines. Having previously owned a downeast boat with a keel, the maneuverability and docking was much different.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
We previously lived in Beacon Hill, so when we wanted some way to relate it back to where we lived.
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Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Beacon!
