2003 24 Feet Mitchell Downeast Cruiser British Design - Finished by Farrins Boat Shop

This sturdy vessel is of the type that has been used for years in the British Isles as pilot and patrol boats. While maintaining its pleasing, even stylish, lines and good looks, it is as well an exceptionally rugged boat, suitable for work and pleasure.

For its size, this boat is packed full of desirable features, starting with generously sized, all-stainless hardware (including nine bitts and cleats), grab rails all around, six rod holders and a very useful and handsome swim platform with a strong, easily deployed ladder. Everything about this craft says, “function first,” and the comparison has been made more than once to a “floating pickup truck,” a fancy one at that. Incorporated into its design for added versatility is a Hamilton Jet Drive, coupled with a bow thruster, which allows unlimited maneuverability in tight quarters and in shallow water (draft is only 24”) for the purposes of exploring, picnicking and swimming in secluded spots and perhaps some light salvage, diving or other such endeavors.

Old Crow’s interior is surprisingly well appointed and carefully thought out. Every bit of available space is utilized for storage in drawers and cubby holes. The trim is oiled mahogany; cushions are green canvas; the cabin sole is teak and holly; the overall look is sharp and snappy. One especially nice feature is the bus heater, which keeps the cabin cozy in all weathers and seasons. The Simrad electronics package is superb, as is the radio with CD player and great speakers. There are eight interior light fixtures, a cockpit floodlight and an excellent spotlight. Visibility is not a problem; there are sixteen windows and ports, including three roof hatches with screens.

This is a boat that must be seen to be fully appreciated; we have only scratched the surface here. On top of all of the above, it is in nearly new condition and has had only 220 hours of use, most of that as the photographer’s platform in the production of an in-depth book on one of Maine’s tidal rivers.