Looking for a reputable shipyard in Southern California

[lifeneverlands]

We are looking for a strong recommendation for a shipyard in the So Cal area. We recently acquired a 1979 Union Polaris '36 in Southern California, specifically Newport Beach, that is going to require a lot of work and good money put into it.

The largest project is the re-fabrication of a structural water tank that has been removed. The original was a metal water tank holding 100 gallons which also had in it structural bracing for the hull. There is now a plastic tank that is literally foamed in place. The removal of it is bad news for the structural integrity of the vessel and will require not only a newly fabricated metal tank to fit the space, but one with structural braces.

Other projects include the removal of the current alcohol stove and installation of a new refrigeration system.

South Coast Shipyard turned down our work as they don't have the time to do a job this intensive and still hold the prior commitments made to other clients. Any recommendations for other places to get this done in the Southern California area? Ideally one that has extensive experience working on bluewater boats and older vessels.

For this vessel, it's not about the money. We need someone who will do the best job and do it right. There has been enough bad work on this boat and the story it has deserves better.

[David M]

I hope this helps. Good luck with your projects.

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[Pauls]

The yard in Ventura is very good. They do major work on steel, aluminum, wood, glass. Welding and machining. Major - I mean really major - reconstruction. Everything from high grade classic yachts to commercial boats. I've known them for quite a few years and recommend them highly.

[Tayana42]

I've had good experiences with Marina Shipyard in Alamitos Bay, Long Beach. No cheap but they did quality work. Tony, the yard manager, is very knowledgeable. Dawn runs the office and will get you to the right people. Dooley is the mechanic. They have lots of experience with glass, metals, engines, props, max props and they have contractors for rigging, electronics, refrigeration, etc. (562) 594-0995.

Also, Driscoll in San Diego is the big yard that does everything well. Also not cheap.

[Jon Neely]

I would second ventura boat yard. They are one if not the most affordable yard south of point conception as well. Good luck with the projects.

[Terra Nova]

Originally Posted by lifeneverlands

We are looking for a strong recommendation for a shipyard in the So Cal area...

The largest project is the re-fabrication of a structural water tank that has been removed. The original was a metal water tank holding 100 gallons which also had in it structural bracing for the hull...

Enjoyed our phone conversation this week.

If you would like to hire a shipyard to do this work, I would also recommend Ventura Harbor Boatyard; talk to Steve James.

Regarding the water tank, it is highly unlikely that the old tank had been structural. The new one should not be. If there is structural bracing required, install that separately.

This boat is probably ready for a complete/major refit. You would be better off doing most of the work in a common slip (where allowed), rather than hauled out, as haulout fees far exceed slip fees. Also this would allow you to hire marine professionals who specialize in the specific types of work involved. Otherwise a shipyard might have conflict of interest difficulties with this approach. Save the haulout for that part of the project for which the boat must be out of the water.

[svkahana]

Koehler Kraft in San Diego. Contact 619-222-9051 or email to info@koehlerkraft.com

Hauled out here several times. Walk through the yard twice a day now for 21 years....watched them repair blisters on glass boats, completely rebuild yesteryear wooden boats, etc. Great refrigeration mechanics in same building. Tell them Sandy sent you...good luck!