Tashmoo Boatworks has debuted its first model, the Tashmoo 18, a revival of the Tashmoo line of compact fibreglass vessels inspired by a classic skiff design and built for modern boaters.
The original Tashmoo skiffs were developed by Dan West, who based them on traditional wooden lobster boats discovered around Martha’s Vineyard, translating the vessel’s lines into fiberglass production.
The boats were popular across the Northeast of the US during the 1980s and 90s and now have been revived in a project led by Florida-based Tashmoo Boatworks, founded by David Reiter.
“A lot of modern fishing boats have become highly technical and efficient, but they can feel a bit sterile,” he said.
“We feel that the Tashmoo models offer a balance between performance and something with more personality.”
Original moulds with modern construction
He added: “It’s similar to choosing a vintage SUV over a brand new one. You’re not just buying utility; you’re buying something with a bit more presence.”
The new Tashmoo 18 is built with the support of Mark Castlow at Dragonfly Boatworks in Vero Beach, Florida, who has been building skiffs since 1979.
The new Tashmoo generation uses the original moulds, with construction modernised through the implementation of advanced foam core technology and fiberglass.
The Tashmoo 18 is lighter, more efficient and better performing than its predecessors, points out David, maintaining the boat’s workboat heritage.
The Tashmoo 18 has a shallow draft making it suitable for accessing many areas that remain out of reach for many larger boats and a pronounced bow enables the boat to handle choppier conditions.
Design and craftsmanship
“For us, it is less about competing with like for like models, as Tashmoo really sits in its own lane. It is about offering something you do not typically find in today’s market,” said David.
“The focus is on design, craftsmanship, proportion and heritage.
“It’s a boat that fathers look forward to the day they pass them on to their children and so on. Each boat is built with a level of care and finish that is hard to replicate at scale.”
The Tashmoo 18 has a length of 18ft 4in and a beam of 6ft 7in and comes with a range of standard equipment including a 20 gallon aluminium fuel tank, a stainless-steel steering wheel, a rod and a bow locker.
The Tashmoo 18 is the first model from Tashmoo Boatworks, with additional models in development.
