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Seller writes:
My "Sea Bird" Yawl is being very regretably sold. It doesnt look like much but her and I are very close. My wife and I are closer however so the old girls gotta go. Only room for one girl in my life. The Sea Bird was made famous around 1911 when Captain Thomas Flemming Day crossed the Atlantic Ocean in one (no, not this one) This one built around 1948 with Douglas Fir imported from America by J. Ryves. Quality built on fir frames and grown Tea tree knees and fir deck. She is still solid to this day although much neglected and in need of serious project attention. Most of the copper keel bolts were replaced 18 months ago with same using all tradional methods and materials. There are no modern materials here and if there were any way I could make sure the next owner followed suit I would. My goal was to return it to its original design and condition but work has necessitated my move interstate and there is no way I can give her the attention she needs.
I slipped her about 18 months ago, removed all bottom paints and re-puttied the bottom and topsides. I have most of her story and most of her gear. She was converted to sloop a long time ago so most of her gear is sloop gear. The mast I have is not hers but could be used if cut down to size but I reckon a boat like this needs to be dressed as she was originally intended. I have heaps of info how to do it including the original detailed plans and lots of contacts etc. Dont be fooled by its looks, this boat was designed as a pocket cruiser and good builds were very capable. It was originally built as a centreboard version but converted after first sail to the keel version. Currently holds about 700lbs lead at the bottom of keel. Deck has been marine ply and sikaflexed over, much to my disgust and could be used that way or very gently remove it and return it to painted canvas over the original fir planks.
Some of the photos above are not of this boat but are included to show how she is supposed to look. Additional non "Sea Bird" shots taken from other sea birds are of the bow sprit, the very old photos and the sea bird photographed out of the water. One sail plan drawing is included. Elizabeth Bay photos were taken prior to last slipping, since then top sides painted grey.
Hull is 25 foot but add bow sprit(you need to make this) and bobkin and its lengths about 32foot. Moored at Darling Point, Port Jackson. If you are interested I'll give you directions and you should have a closer look before you bid. Removal within 7 days after auction end. Can only be towed (rudder not fitted) Motor and spars (not inc mast) are in Queensland and you will have to wait for me to make another trip back to NSW to collect them or pay freight to get them to you. Call me for more info and dont bid unless youve had a close look at her. Warren 0452 339 570