For sale is a truly unique and exceptionally crafted Driftwood Dories double-ender, identified as model 118769 – 17. Built by the renowned master craftsman Chuck Schell of Driftwood Dories in Salt Lake City between 2002 and 2003, this 17’5” dory is a one-of-a-kind vessel designed for serious expeditions and versatile water conditions. This is not just a boat; it’s a legacy of craftsmanship and adventure, ready to embark on its next chapter.
Unparalleled Craftsmanship and Design
This Driftwood Dories model 118769 – 17 boasts meticulous stitch and glue construction, underpinned by marine architect design principles. The boat features stunning African mahogany gunnels, adding both beauty and durability. For enhanced protection, a ½” shoe, glassed to the bottom, acts as robust floor protection. The bottom and chine are infused with graphite epoxy, ensuring superior resilience and performance in demanding environments. Measuring 70” wide at the gunnels and 54” at the widest chines, this dory offers exceptional stability and handling.
Premium Accessories for the Ultimate Experience
Complementing the dory are top-tier accessories, custom-built by Derald Stewart. The package includes robust oarlocks and a custom trailer featuring replaceable spindles and a ¼” aluminum deck, fully Rhino-lined from new for maximum durability and longevity. Sealed LED lights are incorporated for reliable and safe transportation. Furthermore, two pairs of 10’ Smoker oars are included, ensuring optimal rowing performance. Derald Stewart also contributed his expertise to the intelligent hatch layout design, enhancing the practicality of this expedition-ready dory.
Kirkham’s Custom Tent for Extended Expeditions
For overnight adventures and extended trips, this Driftwood Dories model 118769 – 17 comes equipped with a custom Kirkham’s tent, designed and fabricated “in place” at the Kirkham tent factory in Salt Lake City. The tent features new poles and its original pattern is also included. Having been slept in for approximately 180 days, the dory comfortably accommodates two people and a dog, making it perfect for extended wilderness explorations.
Proven Expedition History Across North America
This isn’t just a newly built boat; this Driftwood Dories double-ender, model 118769 – 17, has a remarkable history of tackling diverse and challenging waterways. Its impressive resume includes:
- A 3,400-mile Missouri/Mississippi float, from Three Forks, MT to Venice, LA, including 420 miles of reservoirs.
- Two complete expeditions down the Yukon River, from Whitehorse to Saint Marys.
- A rapid 92-mile flat water journey from Fontenelle Reservoir to Flaming Gorge in just 3 days.
- Countless trips down the Green River.
- An 8-hour speed run through the Gates of Lodore to Split Mountain.
- Nighttime runs down Alpine Canyon on the Snake River at flows exceeding 20,000+ CFS.
- A trip down Cataract Canyon and hundreds of miles navigated on other rivers throughout North America.
This proven track record demonstrates the exceptional versatility and robustness of this dory in big water, flat water, large rivers, and technical runs, making it equally adept for fishing expeditions.
Ready for Your Next Great Adventure
Originally equipped with a bilge system and batteries, these were removed to simplify operation during major expeditions. However, the plumbing remains in place, allowing for easy re-installation of a modern system if desired. This Driftwood Dories, model 118769 – 17, was the owner’s pride and joy, accumulating over 15,000 miles of adventures between 2003 and 2013. Now, it’s time for this exceptional boat to embark on new journeys with a new owner.
Offered at $16,499 OBO, this incredible Driftwood Dories is located in Salida, Colorado. Delivery within a day’s drive may be possible. Message now for further details or to arrange a viewing and prepare to own a piece of boating legacy, ready for your most ambitious adventures.
