Restoring A 56 Whiticar
By Capt. Justin Wighton
Few names in the world of classic sportfishing yachts command as much respect as Whiticar. Known for their elegant lines, remarkable seaworthiness, craftsmanship, and instantly recognizable windows, Whiticar yachts have been the pride of avid anglers and yachtsmen for decades. The very first Whiticar was just 14 feet and was launched by Curt Whiticar in 1921. The next several decades would see the progress and evolution of the Whiticar brand and the final vessel built in 2005 at 76 feet.
This lady, the 57th Whiticar, was originally built as the Escape Hatch II and made a name for herself on the Florida and Caribbean tournament circuits in the late 1980s. She met with a bit of trouble off the coast of Eleuthera in waters known as the Devils Backbone. After that, the story is somewhat murky, but she found her way to Fort Lauderdale and sat in various stages of repair or disrepair for a bit of time and her future was uncertain.
A LABOR OF LOVE: THE RESTORATION VISION
Along comes Wayne Puglise, the owner and driving force behind Jersey Cape Custom Yachts. In addition to building new custom sportfishers, his service and repair yard has made a name for itself in restorations and refurbishments, custom mezzanines, yacht painting and repowers. After the total restoration of an older Black Fin for a gentleman who loved the
