Historic launch Merin at Bowen’s Wharf for viewing and bidding

by Kirsten Ferguson on 30 Apr 2011 The opportunity to own a piece of maritime history will present itself when the beautifully restored historic launch Merin makes an appearance at Bowen’s Wharf until May 6, when it is auctioned off at Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island’s (OHPRI) annual fund raiser. Bids for the launch will start at $20,000 and all proceeds from the auction will go toward the construction of Rhode Island’s Education at Sea tall ship SSV Oliver Hazard Perry.

Built by Bath Iron Works in 1931, Merin served as one of the launches to tend to Rhode Island Senator Jesse Metcalf’s private motor yacht Felicia. During the early years of WWII, the launch was used as a coastal Picket Boat, and in 1943, it served as a training ship for Naval Cadets enrolled at Harvard.

Merin is complete with an oak frame, cedar planks and teak trim. The last restoration was completed by Pendelton Yacht Yard in 2006, during which a new engine was installed, along with other improvements.

Market Value: $35,000
Starting Bid: $20,000

Approximate Dimensions:
LOA: 15’
Beam: 5’
Draft: 8’

For more information or to place a bid, call Block Island Maritime Funding at 401-741-5875. For more information on the OHPRI 'Building the Ship' reception and auction on Friday, May 6, call the OHPRI Office at 401 -841 -0080.

Block Island Maritime Funding OHPRI website