What is a “Downeast Style” Boat?

Originating in the Maine lobster-fishing industry, downeast style boats are appreciated for their classic lines, exceptional seakeeping abilities, and refreshingly simple layout. They are well-known for providing comfort and stability while underway, mostly due to their narrow entry which eases back to a soft chine. They do not pound in a head sea, and track exceptionally well in a following sea due to their long keels, large rudders, and soft chines that allow the sea to deflect outward with ease.

These boats are meant to run with the bow slightly elevated, so while some captains prefer to have trim tabs “just in case”, they find that they rarely find a need to use them. If you’ve got the need for speed, this boat is not for you. Captains who prefer fuel economy and comfort over speed generally gravitate towards these efficient cruisers, and this is the perfect style of boat if someone is looking to transition from a sailboat to power without getting too far out of their comfort zone.

While keeping the traditional vintage sailing-like qualities such as fuel economy close to 1 NM to the gallon of diesel and the romantic-style deck details, downeast boats surprise most captains who find that they easily do 15 knots in very rough seas.

NORMA JEAN is a novel example of downeast style, custom built by hand in 2007, and still well-taken care of by her original owner. Her striking “fighting lady yellow” hull color accentuates wood accents, and aft-facing mezzanine seating provides a perfect spot for family to relax during a sunset cruise or watch the fishing action.

There’s plenty of space in the cockpit with 4 storage compartments, and the salon is accessed by a beautiful cherry wood door. Inside the salon boasts ash wood flooring, cherry wood cabinets, a hi-lo table, a sofa, a U-Line Cooler, and a U-Line Freezer with an Ice Maker. The galley provides a U-Line refrigerator/freezer, a dinette, a stove, and a double stainless steel sink. NORMA JEAN has a forward master stateroom with a center island queen berth and a guest stateroom with a two twin berths, comfortably sleeping four adults in berthing with additional optional utilization of the salon sofa.

For more information, view NORMA JEAN’s listing.