This beauty is a proven competitor with multiple outings including a strong showing at the 2017 Cherry Blossom. Known as “Firewater,” when she sailed in Lake James, Indiana, this boat had two owners and both were meticulous. At only 579lbs. (class weight is 595), Firewater is a nimble competitor. This boat became available for purchase April 2019.
We’ve never seen this boat in person, but it sure looks pretty from the photos. Owners says it was alwasys stored on trailer or lift. Leave a message at bottom and we will let the owner know you are interested. Entertaining all offers.
This from David: I should have also stated that the boat is significantly under the minimum weight of 595lbs. I am not sure how much, but it carries quite a bit of lead to get it up to weight.
It is arguably the fastest rig in the river. Sprit conversion by Windward Boat Works. This is a very stiff hull and deck. When her skipper is not doing something stupid, this boat wins races against much smarter sailors.
Like most Johnson’s of this era, the boat is laminated with the closed cell equivalent of Corecell. (back then it was called Air-X) There is not a soft spot anywhere.
If you are interested or have questions, please leave a comment at the bottom of the page.
The team at Johnson Boat Works on White Bear Lake Minnesota used vacuum bagging and very thick gel coat. They were best scow builders and this boat’s condition is near perfect.
Rigging has been optimized for racing. Among the great features:
Harken windward sheeting car
carbon fiber sprit
cunningham and boom vang run to mid cockpit, for use by crew or skipper
bendy Melges aluminum spar
board retraction performed from mid cockpit, for use by crew or skipper
Good North sails with a class legal, cut-down E-scow a-spin. Mooring cover in good condition covers the entire boat. Serviceable trailer that recently carried the boat to Indiana.
I am selling this boat so I can concentrate on my next conversion: a 1984. If interested, leave a comment below.