Owning an antique boat takes TLC ; a sense of humor also helps

Andrew E.C. Crossley, Watertown, revealed some of the joys and hassles of owning an antique boat during the opening day of "Quest for Speed."

Dr. Crossley and his wife, Daphne B., own a Hutchinson Utility that was manufactured in 1939 in Alexandria Bay. According to Dr. Crossley, the boat was discovered in a boathouse where it sat untouched for two decades.

After being refurbished, the antique is now in good enough condition to be taken out on the river every weekend. However, it has its downsides, too. Because it is a wooden boat, the Hutchinson has to be soaked in hot water for a week every spring to allow the boards to absorb water and warp accordingly.

"It's like trying to take care of your grandmother. Once she gets in a hot bath she's much friendlier," Dr. Crossley said with a laugh.

His children, Merrit V.B. and Maclean L.C., took turns playing the exhibit's arcade game while their father discussed the antique boat.

"It feels like you're really in a boat," said 6-year-old Merrit while her 8-year-old brother took the wheel.