Show Us Your Boat | “Moreton Maid” — 31 Clem Masters

Show Us Your Boat: “Moreton Maid” — 31 Foot Clem Masters

Presented by Jacob Oxlade

We’re pleased to re-introduce a famous segment of the old Coastwatch program—Show Us Your Boat (also known as MY BOAT). We’ll be taking you into the engine rooms of these boats, talking to owners about what they like and don’t like, how they maintain them, and what’s involved in keeping classic boats looking great for years to come. To kick off the series, here’s my boat: Moreton Maid.

A Classic with Character

Moreton Maid is a 31-foot Clem Masters, built in 1964. These boats were production cruisers in their day, but now they’re rare and highly sought-after. Jacob explains:

“I don’t know if Clem expected them to last this long. He built a whole series with different cabin and engine arrangements. This one’s unique—it’s the only one with this cabin layout.”

The Evolution of the Layout

Originally built for the Baddiley family for game fishing, Moreton Maid had outriggers, big ice boxes, and a full bulkhead. Jacob wanted something more open and social, for the kinds of activities he had in mind for the boat:

“I always find driving boats can separate you from everyone. I didn’t want that. So we shortened the cabin, introduced a ring frame, and opened the boat right up.”

The result is a spacious cockpit that flows into the helm area, perfect for entertaining or fishing. Dinghy davits slide on the transom, and a new transom door improves access.

Galley and Interior

The galley retains its original layout but now features beech and cedar finishes.

“It’s a nice contrast and softens the space. We kept it simple—cupboards and a fridge.”

Forward, Jacob reworked the bathroom into a full stand-up shower and toilet, moving the compression post to maintain structural integrity and create a softer, more open feel.

Engine Upgrade

Originally powered by a Ford Lees 86hp, later a 100hp Ford Lees, Jacob swapped to a Yanmar 4JH3 (125hp):

“We went from six cylinders to four, saved 200 kilos, and gained 25 horsepower.”

The engine repositioning allowed for a walk-around helm and large settee, improving space and balance. Performance now:

• Top speed: ~16.5 knots
• Cruise: ~12.5 knots

Noise was tamed with insulated baffles around the compact engine box.

“They’re high-revving engines, so this made a huge difference.”

Helm and Handling

Jacob kept the original wheel and controls for authenticity:

“People ask why I haven’t done up the wheel—I like the old look. It tells the boat’s story.”

He retained chain and rod steering for feel, adding a sprocket-drive autopilot for convenience. Visibility is excellent, with the option to steer from the hatch or sit on the roof during events.

Underwater Work

Jacob stripped the hull, removed keel cooling and excess fittings, leaving only prop, rudder, and two skin fittings.

“We did lots of fairing and got great performance. At 12 knots, the autopilot’s happy, and so am I.”

Cockpit Rebuild

The back half of the boat was gutted and rebuilt with 32 new ribs, new deck beams, and planking.

“Cutting in for the transom door revealed rot, so we rebuilt the whole transom. It’s still a work in progress, but it’s a huge space for fishing or relaxing.”

Builder’s Plaque

A feature of Moreton Bay cruisers, the builder’s plaque, remains proudly displayed, alongside race plaques from her early days with RQ and Little Ships Club. With a bit of room left for some new ones…

Specs Snapshot

Specification	Details
Builder	Clem Masters
Year Built	1964
Length Overall	31 ft
Engine (Current)	Yanmar 4JH3 – 125 hp
Original Engine	Ford Lees (86–100 hp)
Cruise Speed	~12.5 knots
Top Speed	~16.5 knots

Final Word

“She’s a small 31-footer, but with this layout she feels spacious. I wanted a boat that’s social, practical, and still true to her heritage—and I think we’ve achieved that.”