Ariel II’s
wheelhouse- throughout the
boat, systems
cables, pipe and
duct works are
hidden behind
the teak and
bronze trim
ARIEL’S TENDER CALABAN
A tender to Ariel II was also constructed from the original Herreshoff plans
during her restoration. According to preliminary research into Ariel II
before her restoration began, it was believed that this model had not
previously been built. However, photographs of Ariel II found recently
show Ariel II clearly has a dinghy nestled aboard during her launch in 1931.
At some point in the past the tender was lost, and no evidence of her
existance remained on board Ariel II when the work began at Ballentine’s
Boat Shop. Using the tender’s plans from Hart Nautical Collections List at
the MIT Museum, BBS constructed Calaban and her unique storage and
davit system. While Calaban looks identical to the original hull, the new
boat was constructed with the knowledge she would spend much of her
life stored on deck. To prevent issues with a traditional cedar and oak hull
drying out, Calaban was constructed from sapele mahogany plywood over
laminated spruce frames. She is trimmed in varnish teak, including bright
seats, transom, and the iconic Herreshoff moulded sheer.AMY (^) B
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ARIEL II
details designed by Steve Ballentine. Major systems,
including generator, watermaker and climate control,
are easily maintained with access from above and via
the forward and aft engine room hatches. The pilothouse
was built with removable panels in the cabin sole and a
removable section of roof for when rebuilding or
replacement of major mechanical systems is required.
The forward cabin is accessible by a passageway
to starboard of the helm station. Descending the
partially spiralling staircase, original to Ariel II, you
have single berths to either side of the cabin with plenty
of built-in storage below. A large opening butterfly hatch
above provides excellent daytime illumination and
ventilation. A mix of traditional oil lamps and electric
fixtures are installed throughout. All the way forward
is one of two enclosed heads, featuring electric toilets
and porcelain sinks.
The rest of Ariel II’s accommodations are aft of the
pilothouse. These include a small, but fully equipped,
galley to starboard, and the primary head, which has
a shower, to port.
Aft of the galley is the main saloon, with single berths
to port and starboard. Again, storage has been built in
to the cedar and mahogany cabinetry. Rectangular
windows along the length of the cabin sides, many
of which open to allow ventilation, provide a wealth
of natural light. Continuing aft, a short staircase brings
you up into an aft cockpit with a hardtop and removable
canvas curtain surround. This space offers an excellent
area for relaxing while under way or at anchor, no
matter the weather conditions.
Despite being originally constructed by arguably the
best craftsmen of the time, Ariel II was built with little
expectation of lasting three quarters of a century. While
there are many notable exceptions and beautiful
examples afloat today, the lion’s share of vessels built
during Ariel IIs generation have long since been lost or
destroyed. Fortunately, Ariel II was saved from the fate
many of her peers faced, and restored as an exquisite
example of 1930s style and Herreshoff quality. The
Baker family’s restoration philosophy ensured that
Ariel II was rebuilt with the intention of not only being
a vessel cherished by her current owners, but that she
will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.