Classic British Wooden Boat - Andrews Slipper Stern Launch

The first slipper launch was designed and built by John Andrews at his fathers boatyard on the River Thames in the UK, in 1913. Incorporating a steering wheel and gearbox, for easy manoeuvrability and handling, it was stylistically similar to British sports cars of the day with its distinctive sports shape. The first customer called his launch 'Merk' after his favourite car, a Mercedes. This exact boat is now on permanent display in the British Maritime Museum.

Natsumiis a very special boat and an excellent example of an Andrews 25 Greyhound Slipper Stern Launch. She is one of only 156 boats that were built at Andrews Boathouses in Bourne End. Originally built for exhibition at the 1960 London Boat Show, boat no 444, she was originally named Elkay and later renamed Fairmead. Totally restored by Andrews Boathouses during 2021/22, her exterior and interior were stripped back to bare wood and necessary repairs made.

Like all of our boats she has gone through an extensive restoration process and is now in showroom condition, inside and out. Her hull and deck have been fully restored and her engine has been rebuilt by engine specialist Tom Roy. We have also hidden some modern conveniences such as hidden LED ambient lighting, power steering, USB charging points and B&O Bluetooth removeable marine speakers.

The original vinyl seats have been replaced and upgraded with cream marine leather with Oxford blue contrasting piping and 'Bentley' style cross stitching.

Her hull, interior and decks have been treated to 16 coats of Awlwood varnish, a very manual process that takes around a month to complete. This gives her the deep lustrous finish so associated with classic wooden boats, and affords her years of protection from the elements.

Synonymous with lazy summer days and pop of champagne corks, taking a day out in an elegant slipper launch is the perfect way to enjoy the river. We even include a champagne cooler fitted out of sight under the bench table!

Although Natsumi is fitted with a gas/petrol engine of the period we are able to install a modern engine or electric propulsion if required for an additional charge.

Please call to discuss full specification of this beautiful boat. 1 phone

For full details go to:- https://slipperlaunches.com/boat_list/natsumi/

We will provide the shipping cradle free of charge.

Buyer pays for shipment from our workshops in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, UK.