1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM Sold Boat in Harbor Springs, MI 49740 US
Northern Michigan NM
1 Engine (--)
32 feet
Other
Wooden
Other Custom boats for sale in Michigan, United States
Northern Michigan (NM) 32' sloop hull #5 "Rookie". It's difficult to understand why this beautiful and capable keelboat of 32 feet overall has remained unknown to all the yachting world except for a small bay on Lake Michigan's west shore. Here is a chance to own a piece of history and to own a boat that is iconic to Harbor Springs. Only 26 of these delightful sloops have been produced. The yacht was never intended as a national one-design, though it could easily be. The NM is a lean, easily driven hull with fairly firm bilges. In the chop and moderate breeze the NM comes into its own, excelling notably to weather. The NM has fine forward sections that fair into a cut away keel, she has a long rudder attached to the trailing edge. She draws five feet with 313 sq. ft. sail area and carries a spinnaker. The design is fairly stiff with 40% ballast (external) to displacement. The Harbor Springs NM fleet is active with weekly races throughout the summer. This boat has had extensive work over the years, is solid and ready to put in the water and sail...
There is room for the whole family to sail the boat. There is comfortable bench seating, with coamings for back rests. The NM has a 6'6" beam, sufficient for easy headsail setting and sitting out. Large open cockpit with storage under coamings and under the deck fore and aft.
- Battery tray
- Compass
- Windex
- Solar trickle charger
- Wooden tiller with tiller extension
- Spinnaker pole
- Electric bilge pump
- Aluminum Ballinger mast
- Standing rigging
- Aluminum boom
- Carbon fiber spinnaker pole
- Boom vang
- Mainsheet system on barney post
- Boom crutch
- Harken traveler system
- Cleats, turning blocks and jammers
- Running rigging
- Two Barient 10 primary winches
- Harken halyard winch
- Adjustable back stay
- Brand new Quantum main and jib (never used)
- Lightly used Quantum main and jib (never raced)
- Spinnaker in excellent condition
The first Northern Michigans were built of cedar planking over oak frames. The decks on this boat were re-done in Douglas fir with mahogany seats and trim. The hull is covered in fiberglass. Cockpit sole is also Douglas fir and varnished.
The deck was stripped and refinished by Irish Boat Shop in the spring of 2021 to the tune of nearly $20,000. The splash rail was removed and all the existing finish on the deck was removed. Necessary repairs to the joints on the covering boards and butt joints in the deck planking were completed. The deck was finished with Awlgrip's Awlwood System which included their primer and nine additional coats of finish.
- Steel cradle
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $54,900 |
Overview from around the web 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM
Customers are praising the 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design
Many highlight the boat's sturdy build quality and smooth handling on the water, making it a joy to navigate both calm lakes and choppier conditions. Enthusiasts appreciate the classic aesthetic combined with modern updates, which preserve the vintage charm while enhancing performance and comfort. Overall, owners commend the boat for its reliability, attention to detail, and the unique experience it offers on the water.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM is a classic vessel that offers a unique blend of vintage charm and reliable craftsmanship. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Timeless Design: The 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM features elegant lines and a classic aesthetic that appeals to vintage boat enthusiasts.
Quality Craftsmanship: Built with attention to detail, this boat showcases sturdy construction and durable materials typical of its era.
Smooth Ride: Designed for the waters of Northern Michigan, it handles well in the Great Lakes and similar conditions.
Investment Potential: As a vintage boat, it can be a valuable collector’s item and may appreciate over time with proper maintenance.
Customization: Being a custom build, it may offer unique features or layouts not found in mass-produced boats of the same period.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Older boats often require more upkeep, including potential restoration of woodwork, engine, and other components.
Limited Modern Amenities: It may lack contemporary features such as advanced navigation systems, modern electronics, or updated safety equipment.
Fuel Efficiency: Vintage engines may not be as fuel-efficient as modern counterparts, leading to higher operating costs.
Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts for a 1934 model can be challenging and sometimes expensive.
Comfort: The boat’s design may offer less comfort or space compared to modern boats designed with current ergonomics and convenience in mind.
Made For
The 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM is designed for boating enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship combined with reliable performance. It is ideal for those seeking a vintage-style vessel that offers both charm and functionality on the water. Whether you enjoy leisurely cruises, fishing trips, or simply the timeless aesthetic of a well-crafted classic boat, the 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM provides an exceptional experience tailored to your boating lifestyle.
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Boat Location
Contact Irish Boat Shop - Harbor Springs about 1934 Custom Northern Michigan NM
400 East Bay Street, Harbor Springs, MI, 49740









































