Three days on the ICW in a Bertram 58....

[IRGuy]

I just returned home from a three day trip delivering a 1981 Bertram 58 from Charleston, SC, to Palatka, FL. Down the ICW from Chstn to Jacksonville, FL, then 55 miles up the St. Johns River from Jax to Palatka. Interesting boat.. she shows her age (but proudly) as she has an interesting past.. she was originally owned by Julio Inglesas (sp?), but for the past four years was used by an owner's daughter as a place to live while she attended college (you can imagine how two partying college girls left her after 4 years). Powered by two 600HP Detroit Diesels, we ran from idle speed to about 12 knots, depending on conditions. Drawing almost 5' and with the past week's astronomical high and low tides we often kicked up a little mud, but never had to back down from a grounding. Very little traffic on the ICW, except for local fishermen. She has a lot of fittings and details identical to our boats, such as window frame details, vents, AC controls, etc. The new owner has worked on her for about 10 months, and has her in surprisingly good condition. He is very much a hands on guy who handled her very well. Just thought I would mention what I have been doing for the past 5 days. "Phoenix" is now indoors at a DIY boatyard here in Wilmington where I am starting prep work for her to be painted. I am heading there as soon as I finish this note.

[Miss B]

Frank, no photos of the old gal??

[IRGuy]

I have a couple that might be OK.. will try to post them soon.