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By Kim Calnan
While the fast-paced regatta season is upon us in New England, the Antique and Classic Boat Rendezvous at Mystic Seaport gives boat owners and admirers the opportunity to slow down and enjoy some of the most extraordinary boats in the country.
This year marks the 42nd Annual Rendezvous and showcases some impressive antique and classic vessels built before 1975, including sailboats, cruisers, and runabouts. Boats are encouraged to dress ship for the event, for museum guests to enjoy the displayed vessels.
Frederick “Ted” Crosby, USA Fleet Commodore of the Classic Yacht Association, owns and maintains Nisca, a 1924 William Hand Jr. Piute Class express cruiser with his wife Rebecca. The Crosby’s have attended the Rendezvous 16 times, with 10 awards and admit that the event is a great time to catch up with old friends, as well as enjoy the beautiful craftsmanship of the antique boats. According to Crosby, “it’s one of the few times I’ve been to [the Mystic Seaport] that all the dock space was gone.”
Shannon McKenzie, Director of Watercraft Programs at Mystic Seaport, admits her favorite part of the event is “seeing all of the boats tied up along our waterfront on display to the public. The museum visitors walk along to see all of the boats, ask questions of the owners, and admire the craftsmanship. The Watercraft Area events bring something new for our members and the visiting public to enjoy.”
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