Yup, I'm talking about the real thing - a genuine battleship gray "patrol torpedo" PT Boat from World War II ... specifically, PT-728. There are only 12 known PT boats remaining in the world. PT-728 is the only one in existence licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard for carrying passengers.
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Being a true "baby boomer", when I hear the phrase "PT Boat", four things instantly come to mind: 1) JFK and PT-109; 2) PT-73 and the gang at McHale's Navy; 3) My Dad's stories of being in the Navy in the South Pacific; and 4) the incomparable "bath time" skit from the 1962 "First Family" album featuring inpersonator Vaughn Meader as JFK. In the bath time vignette, "The President" is equally divvying up the bath tub toys between John John, Caroline, and himself; the toys include PT boats, Yogi Bear balls, and one rubber ducky. Of course, as JFK memorably said: "And the rubber ducky is mine!" That album, upon its release would sell 1.62 million copies in the two weeks following its fall release and was the gift of choice for Christmas 1962. Out of respect, in the wake of JFK's assination, the record was pulled from the market. Still, it remains a favorite collectible from the Camelot era.
And speaking of the "million figure", that's all it will take to make this relic your own: $1,000,000. Perfect for that individual who has everything, loves military memorabilia, and who likes to live large.
The specs for this genuine PT-Boat - no toy boat here: She's now 69 years old (with a keel laid on August 10, 1945), fully restored, and "armed" (all weapons are deactivated) with a single .50- and two twin .50-caliber Browning machine gun stations, an aft 20mm Oerlikon cannon, four tubes that each housed a Mark VIII torpedo, and two depth charge launchers. Built in the Annapolis Yacht Yard using a 72' British Vosper design, her hard-chined, triple-ply mahogany hull is nearly flat at the stern, allowing her to "plane" on top of the water at speeds up to 42 knots, a necessity for quick getaways after a torpedo run. So if you you like a "fast" ride, you're in luck: she's been updated with modern electronics, radar, and two turbo-charged diesel engines providing 1,100 total horsepower.
Understandably, it might not quite fit under the tree, but it sure would be a neat thing to have in the driveway on Christmas morning with a big red bow on it! If you're so inclined, here's the link: Shop for The Unexpected at Hammacher Schlemmer! Type "PT boat" into the search field.
Can't deny it, I'd love the commission. Also wouldn't mind a ride if you happen to indulge!
If this isn't your cup of tea or you think your spouse might (understandably) consider killing you over such a purchase (would not do much for the Christmas spirit), there are many other wonderful gift options over at http://unltd.com/. Check them out ... you'll be sure to find something for every stocking you need to fill and every person on your Christmas list ... including yourself.
Also, in case you didn't know, and you are a fan of military vehicles and boats, there is a museum dedicated to PT boats and her various squadrons in Fall River, Massachusetts. Put it on the itinerary if you should happen to visit the area.
Have Fun, Happy Shopping, and Merry Christmas! Let us know if we can help.
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