“She was in a shed in Haverhill and had not been in the water for a few years… it had been used for commercial tuna fishing and was in poor shape except for the new engines. I have redone the cabin and added exterior seats on the rear of the motor boxes.”
Quicksilver Girl, Bertram 31′
Interview with the Captain — Mike Welch
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Bertram 31’?
I always loved the boat from when I was a kid.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this model?
I looked at a Blackfin 32.
How did you come to find her before purchasing?
She was in a shed in Haverhill and had not been in the water for a few years. A friend told me about her and I found the owner and was able to purchase her.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
My father.
What boats have you previously owned?
I’ve owned an 8’ wooden pram, 13’ and 17’ Whalers, two mahogany Chris Crafts, two Century 22s, a Chris craft 28’, and a 420. I also have at present a 20’ Bertram.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
The large open cockpit is great for entertaining and of course the legendary Bertram ride.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
When I bought the boat it had been used for commercial tuna fishing and was in poor shape except for the new engines. I have redone the cabin and added exterior seats on the rear of the motor boxes. I also re-gel coated the hull, added a deck cockpit sole, and teak and holly cabin sole.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
We really just use it as a day boat. We will typically go to various places from Portsmouth to the North and Provincetown to the south.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
Just keeping up with it.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a classic Bertram like this?
The boats are great! I think the most important thing is to make sure the engines are in good shape. They are the only thing that cost a lot of money and have a limited life. The hulls are pretty much indestructible.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
It was the title of a song that reminded me of my wife when we were dating.
CHECK IT OUT
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Quicksilver Girl!
