33' Richardson Cruiseabout (1939) - DABBLER

1939 33′ Richardson Cruisabout
“DABBLER” was purchased from Trouts marina in Bolles Harbor, MI where she spent most of her life in two generations of a family that were active members of the Monroe Boat Club. The previous owners’ untimely death in his early 50’s left the boat untouched but covered for 2-3 years until the
current owner found out about the boat. While she needed lots of TLC, the new owners were struck by how nice the interior was and how clean the bilge looked and smelled. After confirming the engine would run, A deal was struck and since has had much work done.
Refinishing, a few frames and a plank all made the hull look and feel as solid as she should be. Constructed of White Cedar over Oak, only one plank needed replacement due to old damage that was repaired with a dutchman. All of the 120 Volt A.C. Wiring (knob and tube!) was replaced with ABYC compliant tinned copper stranded wire. An inverter/charger system ensures that batteries are charged and the comforts of home such as a TV, fan, coffee maker, or oven are all available on the hook, underway, or plugged in. A new 12 volt Norcold system replaced the ancient 120V Kelvinator icebox system using about 1/5 of the energy. A newer water tank supplies 30 gallons of fresh water through the original gravity-fed water system (located under the front deck). A modern electric toilet keeps the operation simple for guests and the odors at a minimum on board. A pair of golf cart batteries supply ample power for weekend trips while a 130 Amp alternator keeps things topped off.
The DABBLER can make 7.5 knots economically @ 3.5 GPH, or make tracks at 13-14 knots @ 11-12 GPH.
She can often be seen plying the waters of the Lake Erie Islands. She is known for being a regular on short sunset cruises on the Maumee Bay.
Full credit must be given to Bill Jockett at Jockett Marina of Point Place, Ohio for his support to this boat and others in the local wood boat community. Without his calm guidance and expertise, boats like this would no longer be in our area.