“Black hull, love Bermuda and Dark & Stormy’s. I have had so many boaters raise their glass as we pass by and always fun and brings a smile. Best boat and wonderful times and memories!“

Dark & Stormy, Mako 22′

Interview with the Captain — Philip Pavlovich 

About the Boat

Why did you choose to buy a Mako and what other kinds of boats did you consider?
Makos are solid, sea worthy and have nice classic lines – Proven. Also looked at Pursuits & Sea Crafts…there were not all the brands that there are today when I bought my boat almost 25 years ago.

How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?

Dark & Stormy is celebrating her 51st year. A 1970 hull and I bought her in Harwichport almost 24 years ago. The previous owner refurbished it 27 years ago and did a lot of custom features including a teak sole, the black topsides, custom Ttop and interior. There were only two previous owners including Mr Cote who originally owned her and operated Cote boatyard in Harwichport.  He/his boatyard did all the refurbished and custom work 27 years ago.

Who first introduced you to boating?

My father when I was a child and loved boating and the water ever since.

What boats have you previously owned?

I rebuilt a 14’ custom hydrofoil when I was 16. It went 55 mph! Then owned a ski boat (when I lived on a lake in PA).

Bought a 1972 C&C 27’ Sailboat in Marblehead and owned it and sailed New England for 10 years. Then bought an American 17 (Americas Cup meter boat). Then bought Dark  & Stormy. I also own a 1964 Rhodes Robin sailboat (12’ fiberglass) which precedes the famous Rhodes19.

How do you typically use your boat over the summer and where do you go?

Love to go to the beaches in Gloucester.  Annisquam River and Cranes Beach. Also been to Boston many times and the Charles River. Taken her to the Cape and Nantucket also.
 

What are the features you like most about your boat?

Seaworthy and solid but not too big so I can trailer and do most of the work and maintenance myself. Love being able to go to the beach in shallow water.

What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?

Repowered 7 years ago with a 135 horsepower Mercury Optimax, very reliable. Installed Dodger in bow, best thing ever for protection and storage. All 3 of my kids napped under there and great to get out of the sun and wind.

What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?

Not many local options that service Mercury Engines.

Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Mako like yours?

If older, just make sure it is solid and transom is not soft and water logged. Low transom so make sure water tight.

What’s the story behind the boat’s name?

Black hull, love Bermuda and Dark & Stormy’s. I have had so many boaters raise their glass as we pass by and always fun and brings a smile. Best boat and wonderful times and memories! 


CHECK IT OUT
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Dark & Stormy!