Highlights
- Beautiful clinker construction by Burnham Motor Boats Ltd circa 1980
- Revarnished by the previous owner
- Very good seaworthy condition, ready to be launched
The Appeal
When it comes to wooden boatbuilding, certain methods have really stood the test of time and lapstrake or clinker construction, where planks are overlapped, has been used continuously since at least the 4th century B.C.
Believed to have been constructed in around 1980, this traditional Thames launch showcases the very best of British traditional boatbuilding and is in very good condition. Few boats today are constructed in this way as the materials, time and immense skill required are prohibitively expensive. Therefore, this is a wonderful opportunity to acquire a beautiful example of a mahogany-over-oak, traditional Thames built launch.
The History and Paperwork
- Built by Burnham Motor Boats Ltd circa 1980
- Two former keepers
- Refinished by previous owner
- Always stored inside
The Condition
- Revarnished
- Carefully stored
- Very solid, complete and ready to use
Evidently, the utmost care has gone into ensuring that this launch remains in good condition and the vendor informs us that it has always been stored inside when not in use.
As well as having been revarnished fairly recently, the mahogany and oak underneath has little in the way of bleaching or water damage, suggesting that previous owners have always diligently maintained this boat, ensuring the varnish was renewed whenever and wherever necessary. We were particularly impressed by the intricate inlay deck fore and aft which is in excellent condition.
As an open boat, this launch makes effective use of its 14’ LOA and 5’3” beam and there is ample room for passengers to be seated in comfort. Passengers stand upon a wooden lattice-work, which in itself showcases some expert joinery, and this keeps their feet above the bilge. The fixtures and fittings are exquisite, with brass fairleads, cleats, flagpole holder and steering wheel. There is also a rub rail which runs around the gunwales to protect the woodwork.
Below the waterline, the hull is antifouled and looks to be in very good condition. The boat sits upon a road trailer which clearly fits it well and according to the vendor has new tyres. We observe that it has lost its mudguards at some point, possibly in order to accommodate this particular vessel. However, we are informed that it is in roadworthy condition.
The vendor adds that this boat will be supplied with lines, a red Ensign and lifejackets.
The vendor adds that this boat will be supplied with lines, a red Ensign and lifejackets.
The Mechanics
- Single cylinder, 2-stroke, 4 horsepower Stuart Turner petrol engine
- All operates as it should
The helm is situated to the starboard side of the engine, with throttle adjusted via a lever connected directly to the carburettor. To maximise onboard space, the helm is very compact and can be operated from a seated or standing position.
The engine, which is considerably older than the boat, is a 2-stroke, single cylinder Stuart Turner unit producing 4 horsepower. Finished in green, the engine is rather sculptural so could be left on show while in use. There is also a wooden cover which shall help with sound-deadening as well as making it safer when in operation. There are also some heat shields fitted to ensure passengers aren’t directly exposed to the hot exhaust.
These remarkably simple, yet mechanically robust, engines offer ample performance for a boat of this nature and really suit the traditional aesthetic. The vendor informs us that this example runs well, not requiring any immediate work or maintenance.
Propulsion comes courtesy of a shaft drive, which are amongst the simplest marine drive systems to maintain. The propeller on this example looks to be in good order, with no damage we could see.
Summary
At 14 feet long, this boat is a great size to tow around and could be easily handled on the water by one person.
This is an exemplary piece of craftsmanship that benefits from having been cared for most diligently in the past. It is a truly beautiful boat that is guaranteed to impress wherever it goes.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
All items in this listing are sold on an “As Is - Where Is” basis. Photos and listing descriptions should be used as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information in this listing and Car & Classic performs a level of due diligence prior to the auction, we do not warrant the accuracy of the listings. The seller assumes all responsibility for this listing. Inspection is highly recommended prior to bidding. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion.
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