February 2016: The project is finally complete and here are a few early images. More to come….
New updates in the photo gallery. We are excited to provide our readers with a 38′ Warren O’Neal refurb project. Steve Chaszar from A&J Boatworks had his eye on the 1964 boat for the past few years and when the vessel was recently put up for sale Chaszar didn’t hesitate to pick up the classic. The boat was towed to A&J Boatworks and the tear out has begun. Enjoy the transformation as we will keep you informed on the project with updated images and info as the project progresses. Chaszar explains, “Charter Captain turned boat builder Warren O’Neal is one of the pioneers in creating the Carolina-style hulls, which feature a bow flare and sharp entry to handle the Outer Banks seas. Many of today’s top builders were influenced and even worked under O’Neal. The history of a boat like this adds to my enthusiasm of the project.”
- Down to the wood
- Here she is called the Un Reel
- Teak deck is in good condition
- Wood in good condition
- Bilge
- Twin engines removed. The original was a single screw.
- Mock up of the brow and console. Foam core materials will be used to decrease weight.
- Spray rail will be replaced in sections as needed.
- Port holes will be filled in
I had alot of fun in the “Alleycat” it was our sportfish for our Rybovich the “Wildcat” (originally Margarite) . We took the single out of it and put the 2 6BTA Cummins in it, added the mohogany spray rails on it later,did all the work in Texas,although we spent seasons in Boat Harbour,this was when it was a new marina with a small rock breakwater, we sold it to a guy that used it alot in Walkers, I remember seeing it years later,it had gone downhill. We also had put the wedges instead of tabs on it. Charlie did the tower in Stuart. We caught alot of fish and had alot of fun on her through the islands. Working with a great owner that liked wood boats and new what it took to keep them up was a great experience. We had moved the console to the right,put the rising sun inlay in it when we put the new engines, good memories, I will look forward to seeing it come back to life, again !
Craig Novelli
It looks as though you guys are on the right track !!!! My buddy Capt. Chuck Barnett will like the pictures , he made the last one possible and could give more history,.It was a great group of guys that rebuilt her then. some here,some gone,some near gone, life is short. SORRY TO SAY THOSE DAYS ARE GONE
Craig