Mariner III Classic Motor Yacht
Charter
Mariner III was built in 1926 for Captain James Griffiths of Griffiths
Steamship Company. This classic 122' fantail motor yacht, was designed
by Ted Geary. Traveling to China to select the lumber for her construction,
Captain Griffiths chose 3" teak planking for the hull and very
strong wood, called yacal, for framing. Originally named "SueJa
III," Captain Griffiths used the yacht to travel up and down
the West Coast.
Among his travels on SueJa III Captain Griffiths visited many parts
of California. It was in these waters where the actor John Barrymore
made his way on board and demanded to see the owner. Barrymore insisted
on purchasing the vessel! Captain Griffiths, poking his finger into
the tall actor's chest, said, "This yacht is not for sale at
any amount!" Barrymore, however, did not leave empty-handed.
Captain Griffiths introduced Barrymore to Ted Geary who designed
a sister ship for the actor. It was the least Griffiths could do
for a man who had exquisite taste in boats! Barrymore named his
motor yacht "Infanta" and gave it to his wife for her
birthday. It was 120' in length and cost, in those days, $225,000
to build.
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