Mainship Review

The Mainship Trawler history actually begins in the 1830’s when a German immigrant named Henry Lurhs entered the marine trade in the New York City Harbors. His grandson Henry opened a small boat building business that grew into the Henry Luhrs Sea Skiff Company. Later Henry’s sons John and Warren became involved in the business. In 1965 the brothers formed Silverton Marine after Henry had sold Luhrs Sea Skiff Company. Under the tutelage of their father the Luhrs brothers formed the Luhrs marine Group which today consists of Mainship Trawlers, Hunt Sailboats and Silverton Marine.

In 1977 John and Warren founded Mainship Trawlers as an answer to the international fuel crisis of the time. The intention was to build a cruising boat with a single diesel engine that was affordable for any family. After moving to Marlboro, New Jersey the company finally settled into St. Augustine, Florida where they are located today. Mainship also has a production plant in Salisbury, Maryland. The current model line includes 5 affordable trawlers in lengths from 31 feet to 45 feet. Owners agree that Mainship Trawlers are among the most affordable in the industry.

The newest yacht model in the Mainship line is the 45 foot Trawler. This yacht cruises like the best traditional trawlers yet has the ability to sprint ahead just like a modern express. This yacht boasts an extended bridge deck complete with a summer kitchen for entertaining. An updated two head design coupled with a true master stateroom, guest cabin and all the onboard amenities will dazzle even the most discriminating yachting couples and families.

The Mainship Expedition has been designed with cruising in mind. From Alaska through the British Isles the seaworthy Expedition provides all the comfort, safety and reliability that is needed to cruise the Great Circle Route. This well appointed trawler takes cruising to new heights while appealing to the most seasoned of yachters.

Pricing

Prices for new Mainship models will depend on the model and amenities and quotes are given on a per order basis. Used boat models can be purchased for as low as $100,000 US with prices topping the $400,000 US mark for the newer and higher end models

Pros

• The craftsmanship that comes with over a century of boatbuilding experience is impeccable.
• The single engine design uses less fuel saving both money and the environment.
• The move away from dual engines to single engines gives a more quiet ride.

Cons

• Though Mainship does offer some customization of models; completely custom yachts are not generally produced.

Featured Models

Pilot 31, Pilot 45, 35 Trawler, Expedition, 45 Trawler.

Conclusion

The general consensus among the yachting and cruising community is that Mainship Trawlers offers a great value in a low cost vessel. While the handrails and window casings are aluminum to keep costs down, they are protected against corrosion and hold up quite well. A few of the more luxury type fittings and hardware on cabinets and doors are noticeably absent, but the tradeoff is worth it. In return for lower quality hardware these yachts offer economical single engines, spacious layout and a quite large bridge that has an extended deck. All in all these trawler style yachts are budget friendly while not sacrificing safety, seaworthiness or comfort in long cruises.