Wheeler Playmate

You are viewing a one time listing for the last known, documented, 1930s Wheeler Playmate classic yachts. This incredibly rare 1939 Wheeler yacht is of the same heritage as Ernest Hemingway's famous wheeler playmate, the "Pilar".There are only three USCG documented Wheeler Playmates known to exist in the world today. Pilar, (Hemingway's boat) that is on display in Cuba, Elhanor, which has undergone a restoration and been made to look like Pilar for the movie on Hemingway and Valhalla, which is currently owned by an attorney in Massachusetts.It may interest you to know that in 2015 a Brownell vintage boat that had been modified to replicate Ernest Hemingway's Wheeler Playmate sold on Yachworld for $375,000.00Wheeler shipyards of the day were world renowned for building boats that were incredibly sea-worthy and built to last. Only the finest materials were used, Mahogany cabin and trim, Mahogany hulls, White Oak ribs and frames and all Bronze fasteners. Rarebit is a testament to the Wheeler legacy.All Wheeler yachts were special order. In 1939 Rarebit was built for a well to do doctor to the sum of near $10,000. In today's world that would be over $172,451.43 which was far beyond the ability for average person to own one.Rarebit is one of the very few Wheeler Playmates to built with twin engines, and the only surviving twin screw Playmate known to exist. It is very uncommon for a classic yacht to be able to cruise above 8-10 knots. The incredible Wheeler classic was able to do 20 knots with its original 100 hp Chrysler Crown engines. We would estimate she will do close 25-30 knots with her newer 185 hp twin Crusaders. She drafts only 3 feet. What fun!If you have a true appreciation for classic wood boats, and a sincere interest in owning this remarkable vessel, feel free to ask sensible questions. USCG Documentation in hand.New stainless fuel tanks installed, but fuel lines still need to be hooked up. New Electrosan head, but original has been saved also. The engines only have 138 hours total run time on them.Vessel is currently at our restoration facility in Anacortes, Washington, and restoration has begun. This incredibly rare vessel is available as this stage of the restoration ( you finish) for $25,000.As we progress with the restoration, the ability to purchase this vessel as she now sets, will soon not be an option, however we can discuss completing the restoration for you.