Schooner Creek builds Perry-designed 12-metre commuter launch

The 'Woodson', named after an early settler on the island, Schooner Creek's newbuild ferry.

The Little Palm Island Resort & Spa on the Florida Keys commissioned Seattle-based designer Robert Perry to create a new high-speed launch to ferry guests across the 4.8-kilometre channel that separates the resort from highway access at Little Torch Key. The resort's relaxed but luxurious style is based on a 1920s theme that extended to the styling of its new boat. The design is a modern version of the classic "commuter yacht", the type of craft that once whisked Wall Street tycoons out of Manhattan and away to their Long Island retreats. Perry's updated version of the commuter combines a distinctive traditional look above the waterline with an underwater shape and construction methods that are as modern as any today. The historic elements of the hull shape include a traditional cabin profile, plumb bow, tumblehome in the aft sections, and a narrow 3.6-metre beam. Schooner Creek Boat Works in Portland, Oregon was chosen to build the US Coast Guard-inspected 12-metre vessel using high-tech fiberglass composite construction. The interior features fine mahogany trim and a tongue-and-groove ceiling with concealed lighting. Power is provided by twin 330kW Yanmar 6LY-DTE turbo-charged diesels turning 20 X 26 bronze four-bladed DIX propellers via ZF 301 1.86:1 transmissions. The fuel tank holds 1,320 litres.

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