Custom VW Bus Boat Sails Charleston Harbor
A unique twenty-three-window Volkswagen Bus shell transformed into a functional trimaran now cruises Charleston waters.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Car Culture
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Teddy Turner Jr. owns a custom boat constructed from a rare twenty-three-window Volkswagen Bus shell. The vessel, which functions as a trimaran, is now operating in Charleston Harbor after being built in North Carolina.
Why it matters
The boat represents a rare intersection of automotive nostalgia and marine engineering. It was completed by builder John Lombardi to settle debts after an initial client abandoned the ambitious project.
The vessel features a distinctive twenty-three-window VW Bus aluminum shell paired with a 200 hp Suzuki motor. It achieves cruising speeds between eighteen and twenty knots.
The players
Teddy Turner Jr.
He is the owner of the custom boat who transported the finished vehicle from North Carolina to Charleston.
John Lombardi
He is the professional builder based in Wanchese who completed the vessel after the original client abandoned the project.
The details
The cabin features modern amenities including air-conditioning, custom paisley curtains, and a dedicated surfboard rack. Practical design elements allow the windshield to fold open while the canvas roof retracts for an open-air experience.
Timeline
October 22, 2026 is the date of publication.
Roadmap
This conversion highlights the enduring cultural obsession with the Volkswagen Type 2 Bus, pushing the classic design beyond its traditional land-based roots. It represents a niche trend of repurposing automotive icons into custom marine vehicles for recreational use.
While this custom trimaran is a one-of-a-kind build, it demonstrates the creative potential for owners of vintage VW shells to explore non-traditional modifications. Enthusiasts looking to replicate such projects must navigate complex marine safety and engine certification requirements.
The takeaway
This project proves that even abandoned automotive ideas can be salvaged into functional, high-performance vessels with the right engineering approach. Owners of vintage shells should prioritize structural integrity and motor compatibility when considering unconventional conversions.
Further reading
For more on unique vehicle modifications, browse our Car Culture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Garden & Gun.
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