A floating learning platform

F/V Poozie

Named for the first owner’s daughter, the F/V Poozie, a historic 32’ x 9’ cedar-on-oak lobster boat, was built in 1949 by Basil Bray for Forrest “Skeet” MacDonald of Isle au Haut. Poozie will serve as an educational and research platform, enhancing marine science engagement, fisheries sustainability, and informal STEM learning.

Fishing vessel Poozie on the mooring
Blue Print of Poozie Photo Credit: Library of Congress

a Historic vessel

The boat has passed through several owners over the years, each contributing to its storied history. It was most recently owned by John DeWitt, a retired Isle au Haut lobsterman, before being acquired by 91’s Lobster Institute in the Fall of 2024. Bray’s original design plans for Poozie were preserved in the Library of Congress, marking its significance in Maine’s maritime heritage.

Skeet macDonald

Forrest “Skeet” MacDonald was the first owner of Poozie, which was christened with his daughter’s nickname. Skeet was an Isle au Haut native who began lobstering from a young age to support his family. Lobstering made it possible for him and his family to get out of debt, to get married, and to raise a child. He loved the water and was known to be “witty, good-humored, and even tempered”. He continued lobstering for the rest of his life hauling his last trap at the age of ninety. Poozie was a central part of his life and is now his legacy that allows Skeet to live on.

Forrest “Skeet” MacDonald captured by John R Dice
Fishing vessel Poozie tied up to a dock
Photo Credit: Northeast Boat

Research & Education Plans

1. A 25-trap demonstration license was secured through Maine DMR for hands-on educational experiences aboard the vessel. Students of all ages will participate in interactive tours, setting and hauling traps, and observing captured marine life before catch-and-release.

2. Scientific Research Support
F/V Poozie will support multiple science-industry partnership projects, including:
– eMOLT: Environmental monitoring on lobster traps to inform oceanographic models.••
– LPD: Lobstermen’s Proprietary Data Initiative to help quantify fishing effort timing and location.
– Larval Lobster Settlement Collectors: Monitoring and assessing lobster recruitment trends.

3. Student Engagement at the Darling Marine Center
The vessel will provide year-round access for undergraduate and graduate students conducting fieldwork and marine research projects.