Custom Shain- Monk Bridgedeck Cruiser

  1943 Shain–Monk 50' Bridgedeck Cruiser A Rare WWII Naval Heritage Vessel | 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 far more than a classic wooden yacht—she is a surviving example of a limited wartime production run commissioned by the United States Navy during World War II. Designed collaboratively by Edwin Monk Sr., the most respected Northwest naval architect of his era, and Morris Shain (often misspelled “Shane”), these vessels were constructed at several Puget Sound yards as part of an urgent coastal-defense program.

Period records and historical accounts confirm that approximately 52 vessels of this class were built in 1943. They served along the West Coast from Alaska to Los Angeles, performing patrol and harbor duties in rugged, unpredictable coastal conditions. Their design blended naval sturdiness with Monk’s trademark Northwest elegance—creating a boat that is both exceptionally strong and timeless in appearance.

This vessel, hull #250770, carries that legacy forward.

TIMELESS MONK DESIGN & ORIGINAL NAVAL CONSTRUCTION

These wartime Shain–Monk bridgedeck cruisers were built using the best materials available in the region:

• Alaskan Yellow Cedar carvel planking

• Steam-bent oak frames

• Strong framing typical of Monk’s naval and yacht commissions

• Skeg-protected twin shafts (a Navy requirement allowing these hulls to be beached on sand)

• Full-keel stability and excellent tracking

• The long “bridgedeck” cabin with signature swept lines

The result is a hull shape admired for eight decades for its capability, warmth, and soul.

CURRENT OWNERSHIP & CONDITION

The vessel has been stored in a boathouse for the entirety of the current owners’ tenure, protecting the wood structure from UV exposure, rain, and seasonal weather.

She is being offered as-is, allowing the next steward to decide on the level of restoration or modernization they wish to pursue. A wealth of original character remains throughout:

• The classic pilothouse with traditional helm

• Varnished mahogany interior

• Vintage hardware and fittings

• Functional liveaboard layout with 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

• Naturally aspirated inline-six diesels

• Known for exceptional reliability and long life

• Provide economical displacement cruising

• Engine access via interior hatches

Additional mechanical notes:

• Twin inboard direct-drive shafts

• Skeg-protected props

• 12V DC system + 120V AC shore power

• Garmin navigation electronics and VHF radio at helm

• Traditional chain-and-cable steering

• Stainless exhaust risers
  (All mechanical systems subject to buyer inspection)

ACCOMMODATIONS & LAYOUT Pilothouse

• Classic wood helm with bronze and analog gauges

• Garmin chartplotter, depth system, VHF, and navigation controls

• Panoramic forward visibility

Salon

• Warm mahogany interior

• Large windows

• Dinette seating

• Vintage oil lamps and brass details

• Diesel/solid-fuel cabin heater

Galley

• Stainless countertops

• Stainless sink

• Original cabinetry

• Ample storage

• Classic marine stove

Forward Stateroom

• Generous berth

• 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 swim platform and lines

Upper Deck

• Storage area and roof access

• Winter cover structure in place (dinghy not included)

WHY THIS BOAT IS SPECIAL

Very few WWII Shain–Monk bridgedeck cruisers remain afloat—fewer still with this level of originality and structure intact. Between the naval heritage, Monk design pedigree, twin-diesel power, warm interior, and boathouse-protected condition, this vessel is ideal for:

• A passionate wooden-boat enthusiast

• A liveaboard seeking charm and history

• A restoration-minded craftsman

• A collector of Northwest maritime heritage

• Anyone wanting a boat with character you cannot replicate today

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Dinghy not included

• Sold As-Is, Where-Is in its present condition

• Boathouse-kept under current ownership

• Twin Ford Lehmans installed

• Vessel retains her classic Shain–Monk naval architecture