In choosing boats for our instructional fleet, we looked for the best examples of both single and twin-engine types. We settled on the Luhrs 32, a state of the art sportfisherman, as our twin engine platform and the Albin 28 for single-engine instruction.

Our Luhrs 32 Open is the ideal teaching and learning platform. Even sitting still, her thoroughbred design heritage is plainly evident. From her Carolina flare forward to her wide beam and modified V-hull aft, she is the perfect example of a fast, capable sport-fisherman. Chee Kee’s offshore hull design and her twin 315 horsepower Yanmar diesels make short work of the worst Chesapeake Bay chop. True to her sportfishing heritage, her cockpit is large and open, with lots of room to get comfortable.

One of the unique features of her design is the center console control station, which not only provides unparalleled visibility for the helmsman, but also allows the instructor and other students to stay close to the action during maneuvers. Separate transmission and throttle controls maximize the maneuverability of this agile craft. The control station is fully protected from the weather by a fiberglass hardtop as well as side curtains and a full windshield with electric wipers, so the occasional shower will not interfere with your learning experience. Fully integrated electronics, including radar and a chart plotter contribute to Chee Kee’s state of the art equipment. On the foredeck an electric anchor windlass makes getting underway a breeze.

Below decks the luxury continues, Chee Kee will accommodate four adults overnight with a modern galley and head, folding dinette and V-berth complemented by designer fabrics and a warm teak and cherry wood interior.

In short, Chee Kee is a great boat to operate and affords a great introduction to the basics of powerboat handling.

Our single engine classes are taught on the popular Albin 28 fast trawlers. The Albins are very popular small cruising boats. With a Yanmar diesel, a vee-drive transmission and a skeg keel and bow thruster the Albin tracks like she’s on rails, even up on plane. The parsimonious diesel power plant and planning hull allow her to cruise all day at 14 to 16 knots. The bow thruster gives an added dimension of low speed maneuverability and the diesel is a reliable, economical power plant. The Albin’s legendary combination of sea keeping and comfortable ride make her the perfect learning platform for single engine boaters.