The custom 38’ Wheeler Playmate designed and purchased by Ernest Hemingway is one of four boats built in 1934 by the Wheeler Boat Works in Brooklyn, New York.

The “Pilar” was made to Hemingway’s specifications for fishing the Gulf Stream between the Florida Keys, Cuba and the Bahamas. Some of the changes included extra large fuel tanks and an auxiliary inboard motor. He lowered the transom 1’ to accommodate boarding large game fish. Hemingway continued to make changes after the Pilar was delivered, a flying bridge with controls, large outriggers and rod racks. He turned this 38’ Wheeler Playmate Cabin Cruiser into a first class sports fishing boat.

Hemingway and the Pilar are credited with making the “US” a sports fishing nation. He led us off shore, we went to sea to test ourselves, to reconnect with nature and its wildness, much like “PaPa”, to this day we continue to celebrate this primal connection of man and the sea.

At the end of the day, we share the tradition of tall tales, cold beer and strong spirits.

This replica is built to 1/7^th scale with a length of 62”, 22” at the beam and 44” high. The frames, boards and trim are mahogany with an oak keel. She has finished exterior and interior spaces including working windows, doors and hatches, interior and navigation lights and brass fittings throughout. Pilar is fully rigged for fishing including working outriggers, live well, fighting chair, four trolling rods and charts of Hemingway’s favorite fishing grounds. A removable front cabin deck reveals many more “PaPa” surprises.

Pilar is one of a kind both literally and historically. She was constructed with great care and attention to detail from a long list of researched referenced materials including measured drawings, historic photos, and Wheeler Boat Works promotional materials for the 38’ 1934 playmate.

Pilar is mounted on a dry dock style cradle for display.

Price $34,500

The Gallery > Artist with "PILAR"