Discover Holland’s Boat Shop, crafting iconic Maine lobster boats like the Holland 14 & 32. Explore specs, prices, and user reviews for these versatile vessels.
Nestled in the heart of Belfast, Maine, Holland’s Boat Shop, Inc. stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Maine’s maritime heritage. For over five decades, this family-run business has been handcrafting vessels that blend tradition, durability, and performance. Renowned for their Holland 14 and Holland 32 models, the shop caters to both commercial lobstermen and pleasure boaters seeking the iconic Down East lobster boat design. This article delves into the craftsmanship, specifications, pricing, and real-world feedback of Holland’s boats, with a focus on their suitability for flat-water environments like Pleasant Bay, Cape Cod, and their broader appeal along Maine’s rugged coast.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship at Holland’s Boat Shop
Founded in 1973 by Glenn Holland in Belfast, Maine, Holland’s Boat Shop has become synonymous with quality and authenticity. Located at 7 Mill Lane, Belfast, ME, the shop operates with a small, dedicated team, including Glenn and his wife, Cathy, who together have weathered economic shifts and evolving market demands. Contactable at +1 207-338-3155 or via email at hollandsboatshop@outlook.com, the shop maintains a modest yet impactful presence in the boating community.
Holland’s boats are rooted in the Down East lobster boat design, characterized by a high bow, full keel, and a skeg that ensures stability in rough seas. While originally built for Maine’s lobstermen, the shop’s portfolio has expanded to include pleasure boats, or “lobster yachts,” which appeal to recreational boaters drawn to their sleek lines and fuel efficiency. The Holland 14 and Holland 32 are among the most sought-after models, each embodying the shop’s commitment to simplicity, functionality, and seaworthiness.
The Holland 14: A Compact Classic for Flat Waters
The Holland 14 is a 14-foot skiff that has garnered a loyal following for its versatility and aesthetic appeal. Designed for inshore use, it’s an ideal choice for flat-water environments like Pleasant Bay, Cape Cod, where its compact size and maneuverability shine. Below, we explore its specifications, performance, and user feedback.
Specifications of the Holland 14
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length Overall (LOA) | 14 feet |
| Beam | Approximately 5’6″ |
| Draft | Shallow draft, ideal for inshore waters |
| Construction | Fiberglass hull with minimal wood (plywood used only in specific areas like bunks) |
| Power Options | Typically paired with Yamaha 20-40 hp outboards (tiller or console setups) |
| Weight Capacity | High weight-carrying capacity for its size |
| Price Range | Approximately $25,000–$35,000 (base model, depending on customization) |
The Holland 14 is handcrafted with a fiberglass hull, a hallmark of modern Maine lobster boats introduced in the 1970s to replace less durable wooden hulls. Its rounded bilges and flat aft design ensure stability and ease of planing, making it suitable for recreational boating, fly fishing, or light commercial use. The boat’s shallow draft allows it to navigate coastal waters with ease, while its high bow provides protection from spray.
Performance and Features
Users praise the Holland 14 for its simplicity and reliability. A boater on a popular fishing forum shared their experience with a tiller-steer Yamaha 20 hp outboard, noting that adding smart tabs significantly improved planing and bow attitude. “I love the boat,” they wrote, highlighting the effectiveness of smart tabs over a whale tail, which had little impact. Another user emphasized the boat’s ability to “hold weight well” and recommended full-length spray rails for a drier ride, a feature that enhances comfort in choppy conditions.
The Holland 14 is not self-bailing by default, though some custom builds include raised floors for this feature. Its open deck design accommodates fishing gear, making it a favorite for fly fishing enthusiasts like one owner who configured their Holland 14 with a Yamaha 40 hp for Maine’s coastal waters. The boat’s compact size also makes it easy to trailer, though it’s not designed for frequent launching and retrieval.
Pricing and Customization
A base-model Holland 14 starts at around $25,000, with prices climbing to $35,000 or more for customizations like center consoles, upgraded engines, or additional features like smart tabs or spray rails. Compared to larger lobster boats, which can exceed $400,000, the Holland 14 offers an affordable entry point for those seeking a Maine-built vessel without sacrificing quality.
User Feedback
Feedback from owners highlights the Holland 14’s durability and aesthetic appeal. One owner declared it the “only boat I’ll never sell,” underscoring its enduring value. Another user, posting on a boating forum, described their Holland 14 as “very capable” on Maine’s coast, configured for fly fishing with a center console and Yamaha 40 hp. However, some noted the low gunnels, which may feel exposed in rougher waters compared to larger skiffs like the 26’ Seaway.
The Holland 32: A Versatile Workhorse
For those seeking a larger, more robust vessel, the Holland 32 is a flagship model known for its speed, efficiency, and seaworthiness. It’s a favorite among lobstermen and pleasure boaters alike, with a reputation for handling Maine’s challenging coastal waters and excelling in competitive lobster boat races.
Specifications of the Holland 32
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length Overall (LOA) | 32 feet |
| Beam | 10’6″ |
| Draft | Shallow draft with skeg for stability |
| Construction | Fiberglass framing, Coosa Board decking, minimal plywood (bunks only) |
| Power Options | Typically 425–650 hp engines (e.g., Cummins QSB 6.7 SL, Caterpillar 650 hp) |
| Top Speed | Up to 35 mph (with 650 hp); cruising at 20 knots with 425 hp |
| Fuel Efficiency | 8.8 gallons/hour at 20 knots (Cummins 425 hp at 2000 rpm) |
| Price Range | $120,000–$250,000 (depending on engine and finish) |
The Holland 32 features a fiberglass hull with a sharp bow entry and rounded bilges that flatten aft, optimizing both speed and stability. Its construction uses composite materials like Coosa Board for decking, reducing weight and maintenance compared to traditional wooden boats. The boat can be configured with a standard wheelhouse or customized for racing, as seen in the legendary Red Baron, a Holland 32 that reached 57.8 mph with a 1,000 hp Ford engine.
Performance and Features
The Holland 32 is celebrated for its fuel efficiency and seaworthiness. The Audrey May, a Holland 32 powered by a 425 hp Cummins, cruises at 20 knots while burning just 8.8 gallons per hour, making it an economical choice for lobstermen concerned about fuel costs. Its shallow draft and skeg design allow it to navigate inshore waters, while the high bow and full keel ensure a stable ride in rough conditions.
Forum users highlight the boat’s efficiency and aesthetic appeal, with one describing it as “sneaky and sexy as hell.” However, some noted drawbacks, including a tendency to pound in head seas, limited interior space, and low headroom in the wheelhouse. The fuel tank, typically located across the transom above the deck, can complicate adding a tuna door, a consideration for anglers.
Pricing and Customization
A Holland 32 starts at approximately $120,000 for a basic hull and deck, with fully finished boats ranging up to $250,000 or more for pleasure configurations with high-end finishes. Customizations like powerful engines, advanced electronics (e.g., GPS, radar, depth sounders), or racing modifications can significantly increase costs. Pleasure boats often command a 50% premium over work boats due to finer cabinetry and additional features.
User Feedback
The Holland 32 enjoys a strong reputation among boaters. One forum user praised its efficiency and handling, noting that it’s “tough to beat” for fishing. Another, who inspected a Holland 32, called it a “nice hull” but cautioned about its narrow beam and limited accommodations compared to alternatives like the Duffy 31. The boat’s racing pedigree, exemplified by the Red Baron, adds to its allure, with Glenn Holland planning to rebuild it for speeds exceeding 60 mph.
Recommended Gear for Holland Boats
To maximize the Holland 14 and 32’s potential, owners often equip their boats with high-quality fishing and boating gear. Below is a curated list of recommended products from Tackle Direct, tailored for use on these vessels:
| Product | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano Tiagra Fishing Reel – TI50A | $719.99 | High-capacity reel for trolling, ideal for targeting tuna on the Holland 32. |
| Penn INT50VIWS Trolling Reel | $629.95 | Single-speed reel for heavy-duty fishing, suitable for both models. |
| Alutecnos Stand-Up Fighting Belt | $226.00 | Ergonomic belt for big-game fishing, enhancing comfort on long trips. |
| Shoals Harpoons Bronze Dart | $24.95 | Precision dart for harpooning, perfect for tuna fishing on the Holland 32. |
| JoeBaggs Resin Jig – 1-1/2oz – Albie Green | $10.99 | Lightweight jig for inshore fishing, ideal for the Holland 14 in Pleasant Bay. |
| Shimano Terez Conventional Rod – TZCX66XXH | $299.99 | Heavy-duty rod for offshore fishing, compatible with the Holland 32. |
| Grundens P116O Petrus Bib Pant – Orange | $104.99 | Waterproof bib pants for crew protection, essential for both models. |
These products enhance the Holland boats’ versatility, whether used for recreational fishing in flat waters or commercial lobstering on Maine’s coast.
Chart: Holland Boat Shop Workflow
To illustrate the boat-building process at Holland’s Boat Shop, the following chart outlines the key stages:
This streamlined process ensures each boat meets the owner’s specifications while maintaining Holland’s high standards.
The Maine Lobster Boat Legacy
Holland’s Boat Shop operates within a broader tradition of Maine lobster boat building, which has evolved significantly since the 19th century. Early vessels like the Dory and Peapod, built by Lowell’s Boat Shop, were wooden, oar-powered boats designed for inshore fishing. The introduction of fiberglass hulls in the 1970s revolutionized the industry, offering durability and low maintenance. Today, builders like Holland’s, Atlantic Boat Company, and SW Boatworks continue to innovate, balancing tradition with modern technology.
Lobster boats are the backbone of Maine’s $280–$318 million lobster industry, supporting over 6,000 lobstermen. These vessels, ranging from 22 to 50 feet, are designed for functionality, with open decks for hauling traps and minimal hold space. Modern features like hydraulic haulers, GPS, and radar enhance efficiency, while the iconic Down East design—high bow, full keel, and skeg—ensures seaworthiness.
Economic and Market Shifts
The lobster boat industry has faced challenges in recent years, with a decline in commercial orders due to falling lobster prices (from $4.63/lb in 2005 to $4.44/lb in 2007) and rising fuel costs. Holland’s Boat Shop has adapted by focusing on pleasure boats, which now dominate their order book. Smaller vessels like the Holland 14 and Peapod (priced at ~$3,500) appeal to budget-conscious buyers, while larger models like the Holland 32 cater to those seeking performance and luxury.
This shift reflects broader trends, with builders like Atlantic Boat Company reporting a rise in pleasure boat orders since the 1990s. The appeal of lobster yachts lies in their rugged charm, fuel efficiency, and ability to handle rough seas, making them a favorite among East Coast boaters from Maine to Bermuda.
Lobster Boat Racing: A Cultural Staple
Lobster boat racing, organized by the Maine Lobster Boat Racing Association (MLBRA), is a beloved tradition that showcases the speed and durability of vessels like the Holland 32. Races, held from mid-June to late August, are divided into categories like wooden boats, gasoline, and diesel. The Red Baron’s 57.8 mph record highlights the Holland 32’s racing potential, with Glenn Holland aiming for 60+ mph in future iterations.
These events foster community and camaraderie among lobstermen, with prizes ranging from $100–$300. For pleasure boaters, the races offer a glimpse into the competitive spirit and engineering prowess of Maine’s boat builders.
Considerations for Prospective Buyers
For those considering a Holland 14 or 32, here are key factors to evaluate:
- Holland 14: Ideal for flat-water environments like Pleasant Bay, its compact size and shallow draft make it perfect for recreational fishing or short coastal trips. Buyers should consider adding smart tabs or spray rails for enhanced performance.
- Holland 32: Suited for both commercial and pleasure use, it offers speed and efficiency but may feel narrow or cramped for some. Inspect the hull for wear, especially the floor, and test the ride in various conditions.
- Maintenance: Fiberglass hulls require less upkeep than wooden boats, but regular Awlgrip coatings can maintain appearance and value.
- Customization: Work with Holland’s team to tailor the boat to your needs, whether for fishing, racing, or cruising.
Conclusion
Holland’s Boat Shop, Inc. embodies the spirit of Maine’s maritime tradition, crafting vessels that balance functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The Holland 14, with its affordability and versatility, is a perfect match for inshore waters like Pleasant Bay, while the Holland 32 offers unmatched performance for lobstermen and pleasure boaters alike. Backed by decades of expertise and glowing user reviews, Holland’s boats remain a top choice for those seeking a piece of Maine’s lobster boat legacy. Whether you’re hauling traps or cruising for leisure, Holland’s Boat Shop delivers vessels that stand the test of time.
Happy Boating!
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