1943 Shain-Monk 50' Bridgedeck Cruiser: A Unique WWII Naval Heritage Gem | Twin Ford Lehmans | Boathouse Kept | Sold As-Is (Dinghy Not Included) A REMARKABLE PIECE OF NORTHWEST MARITIME HISTORY This 1943 Shain-Monk Bridgedeck Cruiser is more than just a classic wooden yacht; it is a preserved artifact from a limited wartime production run commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II. Designed by the esteemed Edwin Monk Sr., a legendary Northwest naval architect, in collaboration with Morris Shain, these vessels were built at various Puget Sound yards as part of an urgent coastal defense initiative. Historical records indicate that only about 52 of this class were constructed in 1943, serving on the West Coast from Alaska to Los Angeles for patrol and harbor duties in challenging coastal conditions. The design harmoniously combines naval durability with Monk's signature Northwest elegance, producing a boat that is both robust and timeless. This vessel, hull #250770, proudly carries that legacy. TIMELESS MONK DESIGN & ORIGINAL NAVAL CONSTRUCTION These wartime Shain-Monk bridgedeck cruisers were crafted from the finest materials available: Alaskan Yellow Cedar carvel planking, steam-bent oak frames, and robust framing typical of Monk's naval and yacht designs. Featuring skeg-protected twin shafts (a Navy requirement for beaching), full-keel stability, and excellent tracking, the long 'bridgedeck' cabin is characterized by its iconic swept lines. The resulting hull shape has been admired for eight decades for its capability, warmth, and spirit. CURRENT OWNERSHIP & CONDITION The vessel has been kept in a boathouse throughout the current owner's tenure, shielding the wooden structure from UV damage, rain, and seasonal weather. Offered as-is, it allows the next owner to choose the extent of restoration or modernization they wish to undertake. Original character remains abundant: The classic pilothouse with a traditional helm, varnished mahogany interior, vintage hardware and fittings, and a functional liveaboard layout including a salon, galley, head, and stateroom. (Dinghy shown in photos is not included.) MECHANICAL - VERIFIED FEATURES (SAFE & ACCURATE) This vessel is powered by: Twin Ford Lehman Diesel Engines, known for their reliability and long life, providing economical displacement cruising. Engine access is via interior hatches, with additional mechanical features including twin inboard direct-drive shafts, skeg-protected props, a 12V DC system + 120V AC shore power, Garmin navigation electronics, and VHF radio at the helm, along with traditional chain-and-cable steering and stainless exhaust risers. (All mechanical systems are subject to buyer inspection.) ACCOMMODATIONS & LAYOUT Pilothouse: Classic wood helm with bronze and analog gauges, Garmin chartplotter, depth system, VHF, and navigation controls, offering panoramic forward visibility. Salon: Warm mahogany interior with large windows, dinette seating, vintage oil lamps, and brass accents, along with a diesel/solid-fuel cabin heater. Galley: Stainless countertops, stainless sink, original cabinetry, ample storage, and a classic marine stove. Forward Stateroom: Generous berth with anchor-themed cabinetry, reading lamps, portholes, and original paneling. Head/Shower Area: Sink and vanity, shower pan, storage lockers, vintage fixtures, and lighting. Aft Exterior Deck: Open cockpit for gear, chairs, or fishing, access to the swim platform and lines, with an upper deck storage area and roof access. A winter cover structure is in place (dinghy not included). WHY THIS BOAT IS SPECIAL Very few WWII Shain-Monk bridgedeck cruisers remain afloat, and even fewer possess this level of originality and structural integrity. With its rich naval heritage, Monk design pedigree, twin-diesel power, inviting interior, and boathouse-kept condition, this vessel is perfect for: A passionate wooden boat enthusiast, a liveaboard seeking charm and history, a restoration-minded craftsman, a collector of Northwest maritime heritage, or anyone desiring a boat with unparalleled character. ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Dinghy not included, sold as-is, where-is in its current condition, boathouse-kept under current ownership, twin Ford Lehmans installed, and the vessel retains her classic Shain-Monk naval architecture.
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