ITALMAS Revisited

In Epoxyworks 47 we featured an article on the construction of Italmas. Today she’s nearly complete, and true to reputation, Van Dam Custom Boatworks never disappoints. Here are a few photos of the boat showing off some of the craftsmanship Van Dam is famous for.

“Italmas is a world-class cruising design tuned and tailored for her owner to enjoy sailing the Great Lakes. She combines distinction with grace resulting in a traditional take from Stephens Waring Yacht Design that squarely pays homage to yachts of the ’40s and ’50s.”

The yacht exudes “classic” — the hull seemingly born from restrained overhangs and subtle tumblehome, an elliptical transom and a traditional bulwark detail. The cabin trunk and hard dodger continue a theme in spare elegant styling that somehow yields a softening touch to the eye by the mix of strong camber and elliptical shaped details in the corners of the superstructure elements.

LOA: 44′
Beam: 12′ 6″
Displacement: 23,500 lbs
Fuel: 60 gal
Power: Yanmar SD/53hp

—From vandamboats.com

This gorgeous boat was built with WEST SYSTEM Epoxy at Van Dam Custom Boatworks in Boyne City, Michigan. The company was co-founded by married couple Steve and Jean Van Dam in 1977 in a small shop. Today, they are stepping back from their operation roles as son Ben Van Dam—who has a degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the University of Michigan—is now responsible for the boat shop’s operations, culture, and finances in his role as company president.

Van Dam Custom Boats designs and builds the world’s finest wooden boats.