“There are not many people who use their boats more than I do. It’s the most calming place on earth, and I’m very fortunate to be able to do so.“
Gullwing, C.W. Hood Wasque 30’
Interview with the Captain — Alex Finigan
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a C.W. Hood?
Fell in love with the looks.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this particular model (and how did they compare)?
None, I wasn’t looking for a boat at the time.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?
It’s a great story. My friend lives near Chris Hood’s boat yard, near Redd’s Pond and called me one Sunday in Sept. 2013, and asked if I’d seen the new boat that had just been delivered. I immediately drove there and fell in love with it. I called Chris and said if anything like that ever came up for sale to call me. Chris built the boat in 2001, and it was sent there by the original owner to have some work done over the winter to make it ready for sale in the Spring. I asked Chris what they were going to ask for it in the Spring, then made an offer to buy it ‘as is’, then and there. It only had 400 hours on the 350 Yanmar, and was exactly what I wanted. We made the deal, and I’ve been the lucky owner ever since.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
Well, it’s got a lot of brightwork for a 30’ boat, but that’s what makes it in my opinion. The single best feature I’ve added is the custom bimini top over the rear deck. It was like adding a room to your house, and a very useful feature to stay out of the sun.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
The size and ease of docking for one person, and the cockpit layout. It will easily hold 8-10 people for a cocktail cruise, although 6 is ideal.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
Well, honestly, I’m an old car guy, and was not even into boating until 2001, when my business partner put a copy of Wooden Boat on my desk, opened to a story on Lyman lapstrake boats. I was hooked!!
What boats have you previously owned?
My first was a 25’ Lyman Sleeper, then a Cape Dory 29 Open Fisherman, both great boats. I would probably still own the Cape Dory if this hadn’t come up.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
Because of four local grandchildren, and one on the way, this year has been tough as far as cruising. Before we’d go to Boston overnight, or P-town for the weekend, but now it’s my condo on the water. Weather permitting, I work from 8-12, M-Th, and then go right to the boat. I can then work from there on my phone or iPad. There are not many people who use their boats more than I do. It’s the most calming place on earth, and I’m very fortunate to be able to do so. I don’t think there’s been a day on the boat where someone doesn’t mention how nice it is, especially sailors!
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
Nothing really, except maybe the varnish bill!
Do you have any notable boating resources you use?
No, Chris Hood, and his crew are all I need, they’re like family.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a boat like yours?
Get a good broker, I was very lucky in that Chris built the boat, and knew it inside and out.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
GULLWING is a nick name for a Mid-‘50’s Mercedes Benz Coupe, where the doors go up in the shape of a gull’s wing. My ‘day job’ is restoring / buying / selling cars like that.
CHECK IT OUT
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Gullwing!
