“This is custom hand-built from the trailer up. She is a one-off, not another one like it.“
River Respite, Carolina Skiff 17′
Interview with the Captain – Martin Quinn/1st Mate Gage Quinn (7yrs old)
About the boat
Why did you choose to buy this particular boat and what else did you consider?
I’ve had over a dozen boats from 14-26 ft, flats boats to cuddy cabins. We live on the west coast of Florida and the backwater is shallow…You need a flat bottom shallow running boat to get to the good spots. Without one, you will just hit bottom. I needed to build a boat to run skinny (4-6″ of water ) with the capability for sight fishing on the flats.
What boats have you previously owned?
Carolina skiffs, Renegades, Boston Whaler, McGee Craft, Pro line, Cobia , Invader, Sea Ark , Mitch craft
What are the features you like most about your boat?
Custom Hand built from the trailer up. She is a one-off, not another one like it.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
Everything, Custom trailer, Hull Paint, Gator glide, Custom hand made Tower, custom hand made platform, electronics, custom upholstery, Custom stereo, Custom low water pickup, Jack plate, Hydro steering….the list goes on and on.
Where have you traveled with your boat?/what do you have planned?
All West Coast Florida Backwaters.
Do you belong to a yacht club/marina or other boating organizations?
Local Flatts Fishing Groups.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
None. I service all my own units.
Who first introduced you to boating?
When I moved to Florida from NJ I was a junior in High school. I always liked the outdoors and as soon as I made friends, I found myself on the water every weekend. It’s Florida… it’s what we do. Since that first day, I was hooked.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a whaler like yours?
Take your time, don’t rush, don’t cheap out on parts, make it your own.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
My wife and I have 2 older kids from previous relationships. Those kids are older and out on their own. We had a son who is now 7 years old, and 5 years ago decided to adopt from abroad (Ukraine). We traveled 3 years in a row to save 5 special needs kiddos from a country in distress and war where they were mistreated. After they were home, we adopted a special needs little girl from Armenia. After buying property, building a house big enough for them to grow in, and multiple doctors visits and therapies for the kids we are tired……VERY TIRED. We live on the West Coast of Florida in Weeki Wachee Springs. Beautiful fresh water springs with crystal clear water literally 5 minutes from our door. They are all connected through the river system. Its beautiful, quiet, and relaxing…..hence the name RIVER RESPITE.
Any recent boating-related purchase you’ve been enjoying (e.g.product/tool/equipment etc)?
Power Pole System
Do you have any other notable resources you use (apps, devices, etc)?
I live by Simrad GPS and plotting system.
CHECK IT OUT
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about River Respite!
