WASQUE OWNERS ARE ARDENT

Just Ask John Dughi

“What a beautiful boat!” That was John Dughi’s reaction the first time he saw a Wasque 26. “I had no idea what it was, and it took several days of asking to find out — and to learn how to pronounce it. Way-squee,” the New Jersey skipper says.

Dughi now owns a 13- year- old Hood- built model. “Our pride and joy for three seasons,” he says.

Big Red is a family cruiser and fishing boat. “She can be stripped and ready for fishing in minutes and then set up for a cocktail cruise just as easily,” Dughi says.

Power is a 315- hp Yanmar diesel, and cruising speed is around 23 knots. The ride is pure Wasque, Dughi says. “The modified-vee hull handles the bay chop, and she rides ocean swells with aplomb. She’s a comfortable boat, even in difficult conditions.”

During the season, the red-hulled Wasque seldom rests. The galley, enclosed head and generous berth are handy in a family boat. “With three grandsons who like to fish and tube, she gets a lot of love and attention,” Dughi says. “My greatest pleasure is being on the ocean at dawn with two rods out, trolling for bluefish.”