Reimagining the past

Through a collaboration with Sparkman & Stephens, Downeast Peapod has given its namesake doubled-ended rowboat a modern makeover.

Staying true to the heritage of the New England wooden boat, Sparkman & Stephens scanned the original lines of a Jimmy Steele Downeast Peapod, which was built with the plank-on-frame construction from over two decades ago.

The company then used 3D modelling to re-engineer the hull for strip-planked construction, using western red cedar and WEST SYSTEM epoxy.

Peapods were originally designed in Maine during the 19^th century for inshore lobster fishing, their shallow draft and easy manoeuvrability allowing for access to the rocky Maine waters – a space larger boats couldn’t reach.

With two ends resembling a peapod, hence the name, these vessels were easily rowed in both directions either sitting or standing.

“Downeast Peapods have long been revered as some of the finest, most sea kindly small boats ever built in New England,” said Downeast Peapod CEO, Donald Tofias.