As an aft-cabin cruiser from the '60s, boarding this boat was always a challenge—especially for those less nimble—where access was only possible via folding stairs. The goal was to create a design that preserved the boat’s original lines while allowing for effortless access from the stern.
Structurally, the entire stern was reinforced, and custom stairwells were cut and seamlessly fiberglassed into the transom. To enhance both strength and aesthetics, ½-inch Sapele planks were carefully cut and staggered over the original seams, then bonded to the existing planks using System Three GelMagic and secured with #10 stainless screws.
The final result was beyond anything I had imagined—an absolute masterpiece. David Arnold took this vision and knocked it out of the park!