“The No Grits name came from my brother and I’s favorite story our grandpa would tell us. He was tough as a kid and decided to join the marines. When he was sent to marines training camp, he had to go through the food line in order with everyone else to get their plates. When it was his turn, he said, “no grits,” and without hesitation, the person slopped grits on his plate. ”
Still No Grits, Boston Whaler 28′ Outrage
Interview with the Captain — Devin McCarthy
About the Boat
At what marina do you keep your boat on the river?
White Barn.
Why did you choose to buy a Boston Whaler?
The salesman called us to say that they got a boat in late in the season and were looking to get rid of it. They knew that our boat at the time (No Grits) was about six years old and figured it was a fitting upgrade.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before purchasing this model (and how did they compare)?
We were also looking at Southport. It compared favorably but it was also very difficult to find what we were looking for due to the limited production.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing?
The salesman where we bought our previous boat reached out to show us.
Who introduced you to boating/sailing/cruising?
My dad was introduced to boating because it was the first loan he was approved for and purchased a 18′ Stingray. He used the boat for years until he met my mother and the boat never started working when he tried taking her out so he sold it. He traded the boat in for a ring and life went on. Eventually we ended up getting a vacation home for the new family in Southern Maine and soon realized half the beauty of New England is captured from the water. That is when my brother and I were introduced to boating.
What kinds of boat(s) have you owned in the past (or is this your first boat)?
My father had previously owned an 18′ bow-rider. As a family we have had a 24′ Sailfish CC and we currently own a 28′ Boston Whaler Outrage.
What features do you like most about your boat?
Although it was only a four foot increase in length, our previous boat was single screw, doubling the engine capacity gave us a lot more confidence in the rough Maine waters and the minimal draft gives us a lot of access along the rocky coast. The unique bow set-up, although it took a little bit to get used to, is extremely versatile and great for guests and storage. The two 12″ displays leave us with multiple possibilities while driving, such as maps, weather, radar, etc.
What features/improvements have you added, or you plan to add to your boat?
We have added on the boat so far are bow speakers, an amp, battery tender, jump seats and an American Flag.
What is the biggest challenge you have experienced in servicing your boat?
My dads biggest challenge he has experienced is actually bringing it to Portland for service after a season of letting his sons use it.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Boston Whaler or other boat like yours?
Don’t think, just buy. You can always sell it. Remember to boat responsibly, though.
What is the story behind the boat’s name?
We bought the winter of 2012, a few months after my dads father and my brother and I’s grandfather passed away. We knew that we wanted to name the boat something in recognition of him and all the stories he used to tell us. We had so many options for names but eventually all decided there was only one right name to give the boat: No Grits.
The No Grits name came from my brother and I’s favorite story our grandpa would tell us. He was tough as a kid and decided to join the marines. When he was sent to marines training camp, he had to go through the food line in order with everyone else to get their plates. When it was his turn, he said, “no grits,” and without hesitation, the person slopped grits on his plate. This went on for a couple days, with my grandpa continuing to say “no grits,” and the cooks in line continuing to put grits on his plate. On the third day he was fed up. He walked through the line, waiting patiently with his fingers overtop the sides of the tray and his thumbs underneath the edges until it was his turn. When the time came, my grandpa said yet again, “no grits.” The person looked him directly in the eyes and then slopped the grits onto his plate. My grandpa was fed up and flung the grits right back at him. Being in the marines, his punishment was not easy, he had to clean the lunch hall with his toothbrush, but he never got grits again… “No Grits” was the perfect name for us and we even continued the tradition with our newest boat changing it slightly to “Still No Grits.”
Your Boating Adventures
Where have you cruised to and/or what are your favorite destinations and fishing spots?
We have cruised a ton of Southern Maine. From the navigable rivers, to whales a few miles off, the private harbors, the countless lighthouses and exploring our major port and minor city, you really cannot beat Maine.
Do you have any memorable stories you’d like to share from your boating adventures?
We have had lots of great memories from growing up and also just after work adventures. We also got a VIP seat a private air show by a World War II air squadron out on the water for President H.W. Bush’s birthday, unbeknownst to us. A family favorite is realizing soon after receiving our residential lobster trap permit, measuring and banding our keepahs, that we will never have to buy for those beautiful crustaceans ever again. With more memories to come.
Do you have any notable resources (apps, devices, tools, accessories, etc) that you use?
As they say, Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning. Red sky at night, we’re boating tomorrow.
Do you have any advice, tips, or tricks for those that do or those that are considering boating in our area?
A skeg guard for when you first start out.
Check it Out
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about Stiill No Grits!
