The new saloon was almost finished in this photo taken on 2-2-09.I must also warn our guests that the new state rooms depart from a truely authentic working schooner experience. We substituted queen beds for the hammocks and private half baths in each state room for the traditional bucket. There are two hot full size fresh water showers on board but we can still provide a bucket on deck for those who prefer the more authentic cold saltwater bath.
These two views of the pilot house show why the pilot house is the most popular place on the boat when we are under way.
Looking aft in the new saloon the new galley is just out of frame on the right
The Merrie Ellen is newly restored 107 foot working schooner. One of the biggest reasons we were drawn to her for our charter business is the cosy pilot house. Guests can step inside out of the breeze or sit at one of the two settees with a full view of the pilot station and deck. The view also makes it one of the most popular lounge areas for guests when we are at anchor.
The new galley is located amidships on the Port side of the schooner. In years past the galley was placed in this way on most vessels. The cooking was done on the starboard tack so that the hot pots on the stove would be down hill from the cook and the vessel on this tack had the right of way to avoid comming about. The wood stove is the original 1922 Lunenburg (Atlantic Fisherman) and it does a great job of warming up the whole boat. In the summer most of the cooking is done on the electric cook top and in the electric oven.
The crew for the Kitsap Harbor Festival get set to enjoy Jill's lasagne and french bread with a tossed salad fresh from Phil and Nancy's garden. Crew member Chris suggested we build in a gimballed table to keep the top level under sail. It was a fun project and works great.
The guest staterooms feature full queen sized beds with private ensuite heads (bathrooms). One advantage of the vessel that we selected to restore is the huge interior that allows for five private state rooms so equiped. Carved wooden basins were built into each vanity and then epoxy sealed. The extensive use of Oregon myrtle wood is evident from these photos.
KEY WORDS
historical charter boat
historical sailing boat
overnight boat charters
schooner boat charters
historical charter schooner
couples charter schooner
mary ellen
