November/December 2000

Changes at Petersen's Boat Yard

 

by John H. Vargo

Julius Petersen Boat Yard, in Upper Nyack, New York, arguably the oldest boat yard on the Hudson River, has a new general manager. Donald Zabansky who, for the past 6 years has been more than just the store manager of Petersen's. Don has been involved in many facets of the yard operation along the way. Dons hard work and dedication have earned him his new title of General Manager. "Running a yard like this has been a dream for me for many years. To be able to be a part of such rich history and tradition is an honor," Zabransky said.

 

John Lipscomb, who had been general manager the last 9 years has left to join Riverkeeper [John, the organization is just called "Riverkeeper"], one of the Hudson's leading environmental organizations. Although John Lipscomb has left to become Riverkeeper's boat captain, he isn't going very far, as the Riverkeeper's 36' foot workboat is berthed at Petersen's Boat Yard. As Boat Captain, John's job will be to maintain and operate the Riverkeeper boat (the "R. Ian Fletcher") and to use the boat as a vehicle for public outreach. He will, however, still find time to work with the Hudson Fisheries Trust and the National Historical Society. John will also continue to be involved in the restoration of Petersen's main building.

If you have never visited Julius Petersen Boat Yard, you should, as you are in for a treat. The old buildings, casual atmosphere, and laid back personnel all reek of tradition. Offshore Magazine just wrote an article about the boat yard, calling it the "Soul of the Hudson River." It is a very apt term.

Sitting in the 100 foot shop, with its cables, turnbuckles, vises and benches, the wooden floors just itching to tell stories of long ago sailing adventures, one feels comfortable and nostalgic. From large yachts to 10 foot dinghy's, Petersen's does it all. Known world wide, many travelers make Julius Petersen Boat Yard their one stop for all their repairs. It has been this way for over 100 years. The yard has been in the family of Tom and Jeff Baneville since the late 40's, they, having taken over ownership from their grandfather.

[Diane, place picture of Darryl Eason here.]

Boats don't sit long in this yard! The new service manager, Darryl Eason, is very efficient at fitting them out and getting them underway. His capabilities have been demonstrated over the past 6 years at Petersen's.
Darryl is a diesel mechanic, marine electrician, welder and machinist all rolled into one tough New Zealander. His experience with both power and sail are extraordinary for his young years and include his own 41' Rhodes Reliant yawl that he and Christina Huber, who works in the Petersen Boat Yard store hope to sail around the world one day. "Don and I are committed to continue providing the quality service that boaters have come to expect at Petersen's," Eason said.

Speaking of the Petersen ship store, not only will you find Christina there but also David McBrayer. From paints, varnishes, to all sorts of fittings and books the shelves are bulging with items. Petersen's Ship Store has developed a reputation on the river as offering great value for the boater's dollar. David and Christina work together at the store to provide customer's with wonderful service and expert advice.

There are a number of large buildings on the grounds of Julius Petersen Boat Yard, each filled with boats in various stages of construction or repair. Some are being painted, others having hardware installed and structural repairs made, and others just being stored. Walking through the sheds is like walking through history as each boat has a story to tell.

As you pass through the yard you will find many experienced professionals like expert mechanic "Butch" Beck who has been working the yard for 20 years. From operating the huge 60-ton travel lift and various cranes used to step and unstep masts to performing most any boat repairs, this crew can and does it all. "I feel lucky, I have been blessed with a crew of top notch professionals across the board," Zabransky said. Pay them a visit, you will thoroughly enjoy it.