BASIC STANDARD OF JUDGING

“To judge a boat in its present condition against What it was like when it was originally delivered from the manufacturer or builder.”

Three main factors are considering when judging a boat; authenticity all components and workmanship that is equal to original. While wear expected, proper maintenance, cleanliness and excessive wear will be addressed.

PRESERVED AND RESTORED BOATS (WOOD)

Preserved boats must meet the following criteria.  At least 60% original decks and topsides must remain, repairs must employ the same methods, materials and configuration as the original boat. Bottom replacement is acceptable but must employ the same materials. Modern bedding compounds are acceptable. If plywood used where it was not original, the boat is considered restored.

All other boats are considered restored but must meet the following criteria. There must be a single boat at all times, recognizable as a boat and not a pile of boards and whatever. There should never be two boats, with one being used as a pattern for the new boat. If not a single entity the boat will be deemed a contemporary.

FIBERGLASS BOATS

ACBS-Toronto is pioneered judging fibreglass boats for the 2023 Vintage Boat Show. Final judging criteria is still in development at the time of writing, but will be published prior to the 2025 show.

CATEGORIES - WOOD AND NON-WOOD EXCLUDING FIBREGLASS

Historic – up to 1918

Antique - 1919 to 1942

Classic - 1943 to 1975

Late Classic - 1976 through 25 years prior to the current year

Contemporary - a wooden boat built within the past 25 years

CATEGORIES - FIBREGLASS

50s and 60s Inboard

50s and 60s Outboard

70s and 80s Inboard

70s and 80s Outboard

Late Classic 1990-1998 Inboard

Late Classic 1990-1998 Outboard

Mini Boats including Personal Watercraft (Pre 1990) 1990

Custom (‘Restomods’)

JUDGING CRITERIA (WOOD) - GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS

All boats start with a score of 100 points. Judges will evaluate the condition compared to original at time of manufacture. The burden of proof of authenticity responsibility of owner. Documentation a huge plus, and may include photos of the restoration, brochures, hull cards etc..  Modern safety and navigation aids are allowed. Upgraded fuel lines, fuses, fire extinguishers, blowers, bilge pumps must not detract from the “physical appearance” of the original boat.

SPECIFIC CRITERIA

Points will be deducted in the following categories. The exterior’s   general appearance and construction details. The hull and decks are scored based on the materials used, originality and quality of construction.  The quality of all finishes including stain, varnish, paint and other finishes wood, canvas, vinyl, leather, plastics are scored. Instruments, controls and deck hardware are rated for function and finish. The boat’s Interior and upholstery are judged on materials, workmanship, and originality.

The engine and engine compartment whether an original engine or replacement are judged on the condition of compartment, 6-to-12-volt conversions, electronic ignitions, wiring, plumbing and connectors, etc..

No points will be deducted for original or replacement of an engine with same model and age or optionally offered engine, or if the replacement engine was specified in literature and is of the same type and that was available.

Replacement of the same make and type or optional engine that was not available when boat was

Manufactured is a 3-point deduction.

Replacement with an engine not of the same make and type such as a v8 replacing a flathead or an engine built by a manufacturer who did not exist when the boat was built is a 10-point deduction.

GETTING YOUR BOAT READY TO BE JUDGED

Bring any all documentation you can find on your boat such as factory literature and brochures, hull cards, magazine articles, early photos and photo documentation of your restoration if applicable. Remove all ‘junk’ from the interior and bilge that is not to be judged. Safety equipment can remain in the boat. Polish your brightwork, clean the exterior, interior. engine and engine compartment.

Clean your bilge of oil and grunge. If possible, be there when and where your boat is judged