1959 Custom Geerd Hendel Raised-Deck Cutter

This 1959 Geerd Hendel raised-deck cutter is a 35-foot wooden sailing yacht built by Morse Boatbuilding in Maine. She combines classical proportions with robust construction: a full keel, heavy displacement of approximately 19,500 pounds, and the signature raised-deck design that yields exceptional interior volume for her size. The hull is mahogany planking over oak frames, with a teak deck and cast bronze fittings throughout. A Solomon Industries electric motor provides auxiliary power.

The interior reflects her seaworthy design. A forward cabin with v-berth, main salon with port and starboard settees, galley to port with gimbaled range, and an enclosed head serve the four-person cruising complement. The raised deck allows generous headroom and ample storage throughout. Interior joinery features traditional wood finishes, and a navigation station sits to starboard near the companionway.

The boat underwent comprehensive restoration beginning in 2002. Major structural work included dropped and refastened ballast keel, replaced frames and stringers, refastened hull with silicon-bronze screws, new rudder, and new deck beams as needed. From 2019 to 2020, additional upgrades addressed a wooden keel replacement with laminated white oak, new garboards and lower planking, new hanging knees, and thorough bottom refinishing. The mast was rewired and refinished, the bowsprit refinished, and the teak deck refastened and bunged.

To bring the boat to sailing readiness, final systems work remains: galley installation, fresh water and waste plumbing completion, electrical distribution from the main panels, battery bank reinstallation, and rigging setup. Standing and running rigging, plus numerous spare bronze fittings and blocks, are held in storage. The structural foundation is solid and ready for completion.