1936 Ferry Custom
$499,000
Boat in Tacoma, WA 98402 US
Custom
1 Engine (Caterpillar)
150 feet
Diesel
Steel
JUST REDUCED $345,000 TO NOW ONLY $499,000!!!! (10/04/24) MAJOR REDUCTION!!
A RARE LISTING WITH GREAT POSSIBILITIES! A Converted 1936 Ferry known as the Pt. Ruston Ferry. Originally built to navy specifications in Bath, Maine and served as a navy vessel for approximately 4 decades. She traveled down the east coast thru the Panama Canal to the West Coast and across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii on her own bottom!! She is a Pearl Harbor survivor! She served approximately 30 years as the "MV Steilacoom" for Pierce County Steilacoom to Anderson Island Ferry run. It was given a very well done extensive renovation in 2008. It is beautiful inside. There are unlimited possibilities with this vessel, private home, event hosting, commercial offices, sales offices, fishing/hunting lodge, etc. Come and see her and dream big! Powered by a single Caterpillar Diesel. It is reported it only burned 45-50 gallons on a trip from Tacoma, Wa. thru the Ballard Locks to Lake Union in Seattle. There are 2 generators for onboard power.
Layout Forward to Aft: Upper Deck: Generally contains: Forward and aft Pilothouse cabin tops with navigation light mast, running lights and electronics antennae. Bridge Deck: Generally contains: The forward Pilothouse which is equipped with engine controls, steering controls, communication equipment, electronics and navigation equipment; Passenger walk around deck. Upper Passenger Deck: Generally contains: The passenger cabin compartment which is equipped with wood benches and chairs; the raised aft Pilothouse: Passenger walk around deck area; Forward and aft staircases to main deck. Main Deck: Generally contains: Enlarged deckhouse with sales offices, two heads, display and marketing spaces, full galley/kitchen along with access to water tight doors to engine room and lower compartments; Open fore deck, side decks and aft walk-around deck; Steel bulwarks have been extended forward and aft and enclose the main deck level. A new boarding platform and ramp with davit has been installed on the fwd stbd quarter. Aft on centerline is 6'6" section of bulwarks that is hinged. The fwd bulwarks are solid steel, the after most section of bulwarks are steel framed with 4"x4" steel mesh panels. Lower Deck: Generally contains: The forward and aft voids; Forward and aft tank compartments; Engine room; Port and starboard sponsons; Fuel tanks are in aft tank compartment; Potable water in forward tank compartment; Fixed fire fighting system located in aft void compartment.
All new in 2008 Galley Equipment: New galley resembles a large gourmet kitchen and is outfitted as follows: All appliances are new GE stainless steel Profile Series; Refer/freezer, five burner LPG cooktop, Speed Cook oven, Convection/Conventional oven, Warming oven, Multi-speed exhaust hood, Dishwasher-Quiet Power 7 and Trash compactor. Deep stainless steel double sink is equipped with Insinkerator garbage disposal. All cabinetry is new Cherry finished with granite counter tops and stone backsplash behind the cooktop. Galley is laid out with an island having the same Cherry cabinets and a multitiered granite counter top.
Builder: Bath Iron Works, at Bath, Maine in 1936 Re-Builder: Owners at Ruston, WA in 2008 Method/Material: All riveted wrought steel hull with welded and riveted superstructure; Steel, wood, pressed and plywood interior: Frames 6"x3"x1/4" angle bar @ 2-ft centers; Webs 12"x6"x1/2" "T" at 12-ft centers; Longitudinals 3-1/2"x3-1/2"x1/4" double back to back angle bar; Hull plate 3/8 inch. Major Scantlings: Originally built to Military Specifications as a US Navy vessel; Hull scantlings considered normal for vessel's intended service. Hull Form: Displacement type non-planning hull with moderately raked, curved bow; Flat sheer; moderately raked curved stern; straight, curved and flared sides; flat bottom with light dead-rise at midsection. Superstructure Form: Three level island deck house with pilot house forward and aft on upper level. One exhaust stack located aft of pilot house; One fabricated steel mast located on top of each pilot house; An open passenger deck surrounds house structures on second and third decks. The inner car deck lanes and aft end of the car deck have been enclosed and the resulting interior spaces have been converted to sales offices, meeting and display rooms, large galley/kitchen aft and two refurbished heads. The outer car deck lanes have been left open as broad side decks port and stbd. There is a large open fore deck and an approx. 4' wide deck around the aft end.
Machinery: One Caterpillar, model D-379, eight cylinder, air starting, fresh water cooled, 565 shaft horsepower @ 1,225 rpm, diesel engine, driving one Twin Disc, model. MG-521, 3.5:1 ratio hydraulic marine reverse/reduction gear coupled to 8-in-dia steel shaft with one 82-in-dia x 78-in four blade stainless steel propeller mounted thereon.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $499,000 |
Overview from around the web 1936 Ferry Custom
Customers praise the 1936 Ferry Custom for its timeless craftsmanship and elegant design
Many highlight the boat’s smooth handling and reliable performance on the water, noting how it combines classic style with practical functionality. Owners appreciate the quality materials and attention to detail, which contribute to a luxurious yet comfortable boating experience. Overall, feedback emphasizes the 1936 Ferry Custom as a beautifully restored classic that offers both nostalgic charm and dependable enjoyment.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1936 Ferry Custom offers a unique blend of classic design and timeless craftsmanship, making it a sought-after vessel for enthusiasts of vintage boats. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Classic Aesthetic: The 1936 Ferry Custom features elegant lines and traditional wooden construction that exudes vintage charm and character.
Craftsmanship: Built with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the expert boatbuilding standards of its era.
Solid Construction: Known for its durable build, the Ferry Custom can provide a stable and reliable ride.
Historical Value: Owning a 1936 model means possessing a piece of boating history, which can be especially appealing to collectors and restorers.
Customization Potential: Many owners appreciate the ability to restore or customize the boat while maintaining its classic appeal.
Cons
Maintenance Requirements: Being a vintage wooden boat, the 1936 Ferry Custom demands regular upkeep to preserve its condition and prevent issues such as wood rot.
Limited Modern Amenities: Compared to contemporary boats, it may lack modern conveniences and technologies, which could affect comfort and functionality.
Performance Limitations: Its design prioritizes style and stability over speed or advanced handling, which might not suit all boating activities.
Availability of Parts: Finding original or compatible replacement parts can be challenging and potentially costly.
Weight and Size: Depending on the specific model and configuration, it might be heavier and less maneuverable than modern alternatives.
Made For
The 1936 Ferry Custom is designed for boating enthusiasts who appreciate classic craftsmanship combined with timeless elegance. Ideal for those seeking a vintage-style vessel with reliable performance, this boat appeals to collectors, leisure cruisers, and anyone who values the charm and quality of a meticulously crafted custom boat from the golden era of boating. Whether for serene lake outings or stylish coastal excursions, the 1936 Ferry Custom offers a unique experience tailored to discerning sailors who cherish tradition and sophistication on the water.
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact NW Yachtnet
Tacoma Waterfront Office, 1717 Dock Street, Tacoma, WA, 98402












































































