” This boat can do virtually anything. It is small enough to fit into tight places and we can easily beach it on islands like Misery or Brown’s or anywhere along the Charles River. At the same time, we’ve had three scuba divers on the boat with their equipment and several bags of scallops and lobsters.“
Rock Lobstah, Boston Whaler 16’
Interview with the Captain – Alex Yanishevsky
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Boston Whaler?
The reputation of the Whaler as a reliable boat that would last for many years, and also because it was built in the Boston area initially.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this particular model (and how did they compare)?
We had a 17 foot Silverline and when it no longer made sense to repair it, we saw many people around our area with Whalers of all sizes and ages, and we knew it was solid boat from a well-regarded builder. The Ventura layout also attracted us since it’s not a center console and you can have 6 people who are in close proximity to each other for socializing.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?
We bought the boat in Mamaroneck, NY from a Craigslist ad and drove it up to Marblehead. The original owner was using it as runabout in the surrounding harbors and towing it with his large sailboat.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
For the engine, the entire lower unit was replaced in 2020. We just reupholstered the cushions. We are planning to add a stereo with Bluetooth.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
This boat can do virtually anything. It is small enough to fit into tight places and we can easily beach it on islands like Misery or Brown’s or anywhere along the Charles River. At the same time, we’ve had three scuba divers on the boat with their equipment and several bags of scallops and lobsters. Lastly, we can attach towing inflatables or put two kayaks or bikes in the boat.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
We first started kayaking around the area and rowed with our infant daughter one nautical mile from Beverly to Misery Islands. Our lunch got very wet and we did too. We figured, “Wouldn’t it be nice to get to places faster and have food that remains dry?” That was the impetus for our first boat.
Do you belong to a yacht club or other boating/sailing organizations?
Currently, we do not. We belonged to the Dolphin Yacht Club several years ago.
What boats have you previously owned?
Silverline 17 foot. We currently own a 2002 Stingray 24 foot cuddy cabin as well.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
We typically go to nearby harbors like Marblehead, Beverly, Manchester (we’re in Salem Harbor), and to islands (Misery, Brown’s and occasionally Kettle Island in Magnolia or Baker’s). We’ve also gone up the river to Danvers. A few times during the season we’ll trailer to Boston and go through the locks into the Charles River all the way to Harvard Square or around Boston Harbor. We also take friends diving for lobsters most weekends around Children’s Island.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
Every three years we need to have the carburetors cleaned.
Do you have any notable boating resources you use?
The Hull Truth and Boat US.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Boston Whaler like yours?
Find out the boat’s history: how has it been used and how has it been maintained? Be realistic about what this boat can do. It can do a lot and you get the advantages of a small boat, but in choppy conditions (2 feet or more) you can feel a bumpy ride due to the small size.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
We wanted a nautical name and were inspired by the B52s song, Rock Lobster. We changed the name to Rock Lobstah to match the Boston accent. We always play the song as we get underway. The name became even more apt once our friends started diving off the boat for lobstah!
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Rock Lobstah!
