The latest addition to the fleet at Mystic Seaport just arrived in time for The WoodenBoat Show. Aida is a 33-foot keel/centerboard yawl designed and built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Co. in 1926.
A recent restoration by Doug Hylan in Brooklin, ME sought to return her as close as possible to an “as built” condition using the original Herreshoff techniques. Both the interior and exterior were restored and the work also included refinished spars, a new diesel, and new sails. This was the first major refurbishment of the boat since launch.
Aida was owned for more than 40 years by former Museum staff member and trustee Maynard Bray and his wife Anne. Bray oversaw the project and just published a book chronicling the boat, her owners, and the restoration. “Aida: N.G. Herrehoff’s Finest Shallow-Draft Yawl” is available in the Museum’s Maritime Bookstore.
Aida’s specifications are:
LOA – 33’6″
LWL – 27’0″
Beam – 9’2″
Draft – 3’1″ (centerboard up)
Aida will be part of the Museum’s Yachts on Exhibit program. She will be on display at various locations on the waterfront for several years, after which time she will be put on the market. The proceeds will be used to support Mystic Seaport operations.
Editor’s Note: Aida was sold in late 2017 and is no longer part of the Yachts on Exhibit program..
