Dillon Griffith, an 82-year-old retired contractor, has been working on the vessel in his backyard for 36 years.
"I didn't know what I was getting into until I started," Griffith said.
Never once did Griffith think of giving up. His wife of nearly 60 years wouldn't think of it either.
Seeing the transformation over the years prompted one Eyewitness News viewer to post Griffith's inspiring story on ABC7's Facebook page.
The white boat is 64 feet, 4 inches long and 19 feet wide. It can sleep 24 people. The Coast Gaurd came out recently and approved its construction.
Griffith says this is not just a million-dollar hobby. Once the boat, "The Mystic Rose," hits the ocean, Griffith plans on chartering it to groups.
Griffith hopes to launch his boat this summer. He is also in need of some donations. If you have any boating supplies, such as life vests or navigation equipment, that you would like to donate, send an email to themysticrose1@gmail.com.