1958 BARNES - DOLPHIN 14' aluminum vintage speed runabout RARE and restored
1958 Barnes Dolphin
Description
1958 Barnes Boat Motor Works -Dolphin SD-1 14' with rust free solid trailer included.Finding information on this rare boat is difficult at best. A very low production boat manufactured by Manchester CT based Co. since long gone. What I know on the back story is limited. What I do know is that it was love at first sight when I came across it a few years ago.It is truly a thing of beauty, a real work of art. If I had the space I'd probably hang it on the wall and stare at it in wonder. I also own a 1959 Feathercraft Ranger that is equally stunning but in a much different way. The far more popular feather craft is all about the rivets and how cool they can be by themselves when used artistically in design. The Barns took the opposite approach by carefully hiding the riveting all together for a very clean cut look. Both companies have deep roots in the aeronautical manufacturing business and it shines through in their design details. I read somewhere Barnes Boat Co. went on to make Cessna's and this boat truly looks like an old Cessna to me. Since I have no need for both, I will have to let this one go to a better home, though it pains me to give this treasure up.Would someone please buy this and make good use of it. It needs to be seen. Probably belongs in a vintage boat museum.Thank you for your interest in my Barnes Dolphin.Feel free to message any questions
PLEASE NOTE* Motor(and its controls) is available separately and not included in this sale. It's a vintage correct 1961 Mercury 500.It will need TLC but is a good motor that ran when last used several years ago. Needs all new fuel lines before starting again. Original fuel lines are dry rotted and leak in several spots preventing safe ignition. It is available separately for an additional $500 if desired with sale of hull and trailer.