Restoring the Peapod
Sapelle Wood Interior
When the opportunity to restore Peapod, a 1980 Vashon Pocket Troller, came up, I had mixed feelings. Marine projects aren’t usually my territory, but this vessel—a salty, rugged classic with graceful lines that has navigated Puget Sound for over 40 years—held promise as a tiny cruiser. Imagine it: a snug pilothouse with a place to sleep, cook, and enjoy the view out of the weather, with a generous aft deck to take in the open water. Like a micro-camper of the sea, this boat was full of potential but had a long way to go before she’d be ready. In boat work, the first rule is to throw out the squares and levels! This was going to be fun.
Before
In Process
After
A Manageable Challenge with the Right Team
At 24 feet, the Peapod’s size was manageable and having her conveniently parked on a trailer right outside my door, I could efficiently do most of the work in my shop. It’s rare for a marine project to fit so seamlessly into my workflow, and with a practical scope—and a fantastic client—I was more than happy to dive in. Steep learning curves keep life interesting, though I felt the need to assemble a small team of skilled tradespeople as advisors, including a seasoned boatwright and a marine systems expert, to tackle the unique challenges of this restoration.
Meeting the Demands of the Sea
Designing for harsh marine environments introduced new considerations: salt spray, intense sunlight, and the rough conditions of open water. Far from the stability of a living room, each aspect of the restoration required precision—from selecting resilient hardwoods and durable finishes to collaborating with specialists. It was an exciting shift that added a new dimension to my craft.
Crafting a Functional Classic
The Peaped Boat became more than a restoration project—it evolved into a blend of fine woodworking and function. The goal was to create a vessel capable of withstanding the elements while offering a beautiful, inviting space, whether for long journeys up the coast or an evening anchored with friends with a gin and tonic in hand. This project was a fulfilling reminder of why I do what I do: always developing my skillset and finding the harmony between aesthetics and utility, one detail at a time.
Team Peapod After a Successful Sea Trial