Commander #269

Ebb,

Here's a closer look at exactly what we have just been talking about. I took this photo about two weeks ago. She retains her original deck gel coat and you can clearly see the cracks and subsequent water entry points around the cockpit sole and rudder shaft tube.

I believe it comes down to compromise and profit margins. That's why you have builders that can charge and command a premium (high end) vessels, and others that can still build a worthy vessel, albeit not free from future water ingress issues. After all doesn't it all come down to time? Much less time to do it the way they did, and besides, were they thinking of durability, structural integrity and water proofness of this very point from future decades of service?

What came first, I wonder? Was the hull and deck joined, then the shaft tube installed? (would have been a bear to glass in the tube under the cockpit this way). Perhaps the tube was installed, a bit longer than needed, then the deck / cockpit structure lowered over the hull and a hole made to allow the shaft tube to penetrate as the deck was lowered in a controlled motion.

I wonder if Pearson Yachts sat around and discussed the future vitality of our beloved Commanders and Ariels. Would they have agreed and even guessed that there would, after 40 years, still be a loyal following to such a model?

In the photo you can also clearly see what not to do. An owner created an oblong hole in the cockpit side wall, for anchillary functions of an outboard.

There is also a scum reveal line left from where the water level was in the cockpit, prior to me boarding her, and clearing debri from her cockpit scuppers so that she could self bail.

*Please note, I had permission from the owner of this vessel to board her and take photos.

Chance, does ELLEN'S HOPE still belong to Bill Perkins?

Bill,
YES.

Bill,

"Ellen's Hope", Commander #269 was given back to me from whom I sold it to. I have passed it on to my father, having no interest in taking this back on with the associated monthly slip fee. I sold it to my father for $1.00, yes one dollar, including bill of sale and title. It it now registered in his name: Fletcher L. Smith, and he has kept the boat in Camden, NC where it is to this day. Sadly, it has not left the slip in over a year. My dad also has a Southern Cross 31 berthed in the same marina, as is a truck driver. So, as you can imagine both vessels sit patiently, waiting to be sailed.

He may be interested in selling them both, so if any parties are interested, they can contact me and I'll pass on the interest.

Respectfully,
Chance Smith

PS: Here's the dingy I still have, that was originally being built to use with "Ceili", Commander #256.

Chance, thanks for the update. I'll show Ellen's Hope in the db as for sale. Please have your father let us know the new owner's contact when or if he sells it.

Chance,
I did not realize your Commander was #269. Mine is #270.

Also keep me informed about possible sale of Cielli. I sail with someone who has been looking for a Commander not in need of rehab in the Chesapeake area. He currently has a C&C 25 but might has always loved the way a Commander sails. He also has a 4 grandchildren and wants the larger cockpit.