1897 John Andrews of Maidenhead Gentleman's Launch for sale

1897 John Andrews of Maidenhead Gentleman's Launch boat for sale

Description:

Built circa 1897 by Andrews of Maidenhead as an open day launch, Pike was sympathetically restored by Dennett's boatyard in 1995, when the cabin was added, and relaunched in 1996.

Constructed in mahogany on oak, she features varnished mahogany floors throughout, complemented by internal diagonal pitch pine planking. Propulsion is provided by a Lynch permanent magnet motor with onboard charger, offering quiet and efficient electric cruising.

Wheel steering is positioned on the port side forward of the cabin, and the spacious forward cockpit comfortably seats up to six guests.

The cabin interior is lined with pitch pine, and the roof incorporates a clerestory with opening bevelled glass windows at head height, creating a light and airy atmosphere. Accommodation consists of two six-foot bunks with burgundy velvet buttoned cushions and generous storage beneath.

Aft of the bunks, the port side houses a toilet compartment with a Porta Potti, while the starboard side includes a small stainless steel sink and space for a camping stove.

Atmospheric floor-level lighting runs throughout the cabin, complemented by two traditional brass paraffin lamps mounted on the cabin bulkheads.

The hull is finished in off-white with burgundy boot topping, and all deck fittings are crafted in brass, completing this charming and highly distinctive period electric launch.

Sale includes De Graff Trailer.

Extract from Electric Boat News Magazine:

Built in 1897 by Andrews of Maidenhead, Pike was one of a class of launches all named after fish. The boats were all originally electric-powered, as were many craft on the river at this time. Their elegant sweeping clipper bows made them instantly recognisable on the water, and they were much sought after by customers. The most famous client was Edward V11, who regularly chartered Angler for his excursions on the Thames. Pike was originally electric powered, as petrol or diesel engines were in their infancy.

It was converted to petrol power in the 1920s. The derelict hull was found in a barn and bought by the Leesons in 1996 at the Henley Boat Auction. She was completely restored by Michael Dennett of Laleham, with an elegant saloon added at this time with two 6ft berths in it, plus a small galley and toilet compartment, making the boat suitable for cruising. The Lynch motor is mounted aft, over a short prop-shaft, freeing off the forward cockpit, where the original petrol engine had been, and also allowing a small aft cockpit to be fitted.