Summary
In 2015 we were contracted by Bertram Yachts to build prototypes of its initial designs for the Bertram 35, a new Michael Peters design based on Ray Hunt’s iconic Moppie, the original Bertram 31. It was a great honor and experience to be a part of the relaunch of this iconic brand and model.
Specifically, Bertram sought Lyman-Morse out for this project because of our abilities with composite construction and experience building prototypes. Steve Crane, leading our composite team, and Ed Joy, our in-house naval architect, along with the other designers and project managers at Lyman-Morse, created the exacting engineering and protocol for the new tooling and hulls. This is the type of project at which the Lyman-Morse team excels, as our work included creating and standardizing patterns for all the fiberglass used in the hulls, installing the precut core, and using Michael Peters’ plans for the interior to determine material dimensions that future builders could easily follow.
As planned, the new Moppie was launched in spring 2016 and made the fall boat show circuit to great reviews. We completed and delivered two additional hulls, constructed using infused vinylester and solid glass with a Kevlar centerline and strake reinforcements, before full-scale production of the Bertram 35 line was transferred to Bertram’s new facility at the old Lazzara Yard in Tampa, Florida.
It was great to be part of Bertram’s renaissance!
Specifications
- loa 35'1
- lwl 31'5
- beam 12'5
- draft 2'6
- fuel capacity 300 USG
- water capacity 50
- builder Lyman-Morse
- model Bertram 35 Moppie
- year 2016
- construction Infused Vinyl ester
- hull material Infused Vinyl ester
- top speed 40+ knots
Layout and Design
Our in-house design, engineering department plus our carpenters and mechanics have been full on in this project fine-tuning the designs and desires of the Bertram team.
The hull, designed by Michael Peters Yacht Design, is projected to reach a top speed of more than 40 knots with twin 460-horsepower diesels. Engine access will be through two engine boxes in the cockpit that will also serve as mezzanine seating for anglers watching their baits. Construction features an infused vinylester solid fiberglass hull bottom with Kevlar centerline and strake reinforcements accompanied by a structural grid. At half load, the projected displacement is 20,800 pounds.
Boaters looking to explore waters where only center consoles can venture will appreciate the two foot, six inch draft afforded by the deep propeller pockets within the hull. The wide beam of twelve feet, five inches means added comfort while trolling at slow speeds and a substantial cockpit for anglers to work and cruisers to relax.
World-renowned Marty A. Lowe Inc., has been retained by Bertram to execute the interior design of the 35. “As a part of Bertram’s history, Marty has an understanding of what drives this brand and that makes her the ideal addition to the team that’s bringing Bertram into this new era,” says Susan Davids, Bertram General Manager. “Having worked with Marty for years, I know she’ll create something new and exciting to reintroduce the brand.”
Interior highlights include a private forward stateroom, enclosed head, and large saloon and galley area perfect for the overnight angler and the weekend cruiser.
Working with Lyman-Morse
“We have partnered with Lyman-Morse to build our first two prototypes…Lyman-Morse’s excellent reputation and long history of boatbuilding, along with their willingness to prototype in full partnership with Bertram production personnel, gives us the opportunity to introduce our first product with confidence.”
~ Susan Davids, Bertram General Manager
