"I am a proud owner of a Nantucket Skiff that was built in 2009. Mine is Flag Blue Awlgrip with Green Bottomkote and a white boot stripe. I opted for many varnished options such as seating in the front, console top, seating in the back and a nice rubrail capped by brass. I like to think that some of the options that I requested made it into subsequent boats. I have an Evinrude 50 on the back of my boat, which is more than enough for my needs. My boat is currently located in Nova Scotia on the South Shore, where we live on the rocky coastline facing the open Atlantic.
"The element that I like best about the Nantucket Skiff is that it is a relatively compact boat (all of 16-17 feet) that feels like a much bigger boat. Given the solid feel of this boat, I never fear ranging too far offshore as she planes beautifully and her V-shaped hull cuts the chop and swell with confidence. I am constantly amazed, as are numerous passengers who I have taken out, at how nicely she rides, with a good chop going, and how dry the cockpit remains, as a result of the shape of the hull that sheds water nicely away from the boat. As stated previously, she just feels like a much bigger boat than she is.
"I looked around a long time before settling on the Nantucket Skiff as I wanted a boat that could hold my family of four and all our gear for a long ride out to a faraway beach. I wanted something that could be handled easily and was not too cumbersome to launch. I also wanted a boat with relatively low maintenance that had a traditional look. The skiff has exceeded all my expectations on all counts. Not only can I take out my family of four to the beach, I have taken 8 people out to the beach with all our stuff and the boat will still do 18 knots and get us there comfortably and safely (with four on the boat, we can do about 25 knots). When I trailer the boat to various places in Nova Scotia, I am amazed how many people will come up to me at gas stations or local convenience stores where I may be parked and want to know more about the boat.
"As far as maintenance and performance, the boat has been relatively free of issues. While I may have had a few minor adjustments in the first season I owned her, I can honestly say that, she has been completely perfect for the two subsequent boating seasons. I was skeptical at first about the Evinrude but have found it to be an ideal motor with plenty of power, totally low maintenance and very easy upkeep. I have not had to revarnish any of the boat yet and, other than a good washing and waxing at the beginning and end of each season, the boat stays remarkably similar to the day I dropped her in the water three years ago.
"In conclusion, I would recommend the Nantucket Skiff to anyone who needs a beautiful looking, efficient and fast little cruising skiff. She will never disappoint you and she will deliver many grins per mile every time you put the throttle down."
David Seaman, New York, NY
"Chris says that this is the best small boat for people who know the difference, and he is absolutely right!"
Philip Shoell, Maine
"My Wife and I are thoroughly pleased with out Nantucket Skiff! It is the first boat that she feels comfortable taking out by herself. The fiberglass and teak work are superb! The 50HP E-TEC Evinrude is plenty of power and never seems to fail, while being quiet and enough power to push four around with ease. I use the boat as a tender to our sailboat and find her stable enough to step on the gunnel while boarding the other boat. The stepped hull gives a great ride, erasing the small chops in our bay. Great Job!"
Peter Schwindt, Brunswick, Maine