One genre of a Maine Built Lobster boat is the "Built-Down" hull. As explained to me this spring by Jarvis Newman, one of the primary advantages is that in this hull form there is room to recess the engine well down into the bottom of the boat allowing for a lower center of gravity. This contributes towards the sweet ride offered by these boats. I recall my first sea trial in a boat designed by Royal Lowell (a boat known as the Sisu 30). We were operating in a strong northerly breeze on a shallow estuary against an opposing current. Plain and simple ugly conditions. After running down wind for thirty five minutes we throttled back and turned the corner for the uphill climb against the wind an headed into the short/steep chop. The Sisu sliced through without any hint of slapping or pounding. Just as well behaved as you could imagine. From that day forward I have been convinced that these boats make great cruising platforms! Note the splash rails sloping upward as they approach the bow. Jarvis has no use for these but I have been convinced that they can actually increase the performance of a Down East Lobster Yacht....If you are a sailor giving consideration to a power boat give me a call!
