In the mid-1950s, seeing a need for a shallow draft planing boat that would safely handle rough sea conditions while crossing the river bars off the Northwest coast, renowned boat builder, George Calkins began designing a double-ended planing boat. In 1958, the 22-foot BARTENDER design, based on the seaworthy surf dories native to the area, was fully developed at the CalkinsCraft shop in Lincoln City, Oregon. Its success was quickly recognized and plans were developed for the amateur boat builder.
The USCG tested the 22′ BARTENDER and added it to their list of approved craft for service. It served both the East and West coast as well as the Great Lakes for USCG patrol and rescue work. In 1960, the 22′ BARTENDER was chosen for the Kiekhaefer National Safe Boating award.
The Kristi Jean (2020) joins the Dottie Sue (1977) and Dottie Sue 2 (1981) as the newest in our long family legacy of fishing Bartender boats off the Washington Coast and in the Columbia River. She was built over a 5 year period by Rob Dudra, owner and his friend, accomplished wooden boat designer and boatbuilder, Tracy O’ Brien.