before: vintage cruiser

in progress: entering boatyard

in progress: adding hull fasteners for watertight integrity

before: engine pull

before: stern, storage

in progress: replacing keel floor joists & keel bolts

after: engine paint

current: repurposed tub

Progress & Current photos (Interior updates yet to come)

Vivienne’s Story and Specifications

VIVIENNE THEW, NAMESAKE of the cruiser

1930 Stephens Brothers Bridge Deck Cruiser

A unique chance to own a piece of West Coast history with documented Hollywood provenance, 'Vivienne' is a classic bridge deck cruiser that has been boathouse kept for over 75 years, in the same family for 54 years before her extensive restoration. One of only 2 cruisers remaining, in excellent condition.

An exceptionally rare find, 'Vivienne' recaptures the charm and elegance of a bygone era, collectible as both a work of art and as a jewel of the famed Stephens Brothers Yard, of Stockton, California.

As one of the premier yacht builders in the United States at that time, Stephens Brothers operated from 1902 to 1987 becoming esteemed amongst vintage vessel collectors today for their elegantly designed and high quality pleasure craft with many of their original drawings and photographs on display at the Haggin Museum in Stockton, CA

'Vivienne' was built in 1930 for the famous Hollywood screenwriter, Harvey Thew, known for his Warner Brothers work, "The Man from Blankley's" and "The Mad Genius" starring John Barrymore, as well as the classic gangster film "Public Enemy" starring James Cagney and Edward G. Robinson's "Silver Dollar".  Harvey went on to write for MGM and Paramount.

With over $200,000 invested in her custom restoration by her current owners, who specialize in classic yacht restoration and interiors, 'Vivienne' is now being offered at a point in her refit where her new owners can customize her interior finishes to their own tastes, fit and finish.  

The current owners remain available to assist in her completion if desired, and the boat house in which 'Vivienne' is currently kept is also available for rent to a new owner.

LOA 45’, LOD 43”,  LWL 40’4”                                        

  • Draft 5’2”

  • Gross Tonnage: Net 16                    

  • Beam 10’6”

  • Hull Material: Port Orford Cedar 1 3/16th

  • Hull Framing: Bent White Oak 1 ¾ x 1 ¾ on 8”centers

  • Superstructure - cabin sides, interior trim, detail: Burmese Teak

  • Floor Framing: Purple Heart

  • Fasteners: Bronze # 16 1 ¾

  • Keel Bolts: all new 5/8th silicon bronze

  • Stern Timbers: Port Orford Cedar & Oak

  • Decking: 7/8th Teak

  • Worm shoe: 1 ¾ x 4” iron bark

  • Longitudinal: Port Orford Cedar 1 ¼ x 3 ½ with bronze wood screws

  • Propulsion: Twin Sea Masters Ford Industrial Model 300 CI

  • 6 cylinders each

  • Horse Power: approximately 300 each

COMPLETE INFORMATION AT YACHT WORLD BROKERS (click to visit site)