Millennium Dream

Built in 2000 by David Brownjohn of P. A. Brownjohn Boat Builders

Length: 7.6 metres, 24 feet 11 inches
Beam: 1.9 metres, 6 feet 3 inches
Construction: Timber upperworks and deck over a GRP hull
Propulsion: 3kW electric motor
Battery bank: 12 batteries
Registered number: C005183
Last survey: 2025
Boat Safety Scheme Certificate valid until: 16 November 2029

The slipper launch is one of the most distinctive and celebrated designs associated with the River Thames. Its origins can be traced to John Andrews, who built his first experimental slipper launch, Merk, at his father’s Maidenhead boatyard in 1913. With its steering wheel, gearbox and low profile, the boat drew inspiration from the motor cars and racing machines of the period.

When Andrews established Andrews Boathouses at Bourne End in 1925, the design continued to evolve. By the 1930s, the earlier flat sided form had developed into the elegant deep V bow and hard chine construction associated with the celebrated Greyhound range.

The gently sloping stern became the slipper launch’s defining feature, creating a remarkably flat underwater run aft and helping to minimise wash along the riverbanks. The forward driving position, split windscreen, car style steering wheel and beautifully furnished open cockpit completed a design that was both sporting and wonderfully sociable.

Over the following decades, the slipper launch was interpreted by several respected Thames boatbuilders, including Freebody, Woottens and Brownjohn. Original Andrews launches remain highly sought after, although many have undergone considerable alteration during their long lives, with replacement decks, revised interiors and modernised propulsion systems.

Millennium Dream is a more contemporary interpretation of this celebrated Thames design, built in 2000 by David Brownjohn of P. A. Brownjohn Boat Builders, a third generation traditional boatbuilding company closely connected with the classic boating heritage of Henley on Thames.

She embraces everything that makes a traditional Andrews style slipper launch so appealing, while incorporating thoughtful changes that make her particularly practical to own and enjoy.

Her GRP hull provides durability, longevity and considerably reduced maintenance when compared with an entirely timber built craft. Above the waterline, she retains the elegance and warmth expected of a classic Thames launch, with timber upperworks, a beautifully contrasting deck and rich mahogany finishes.

The unmistakable sloping stern remains central to her appearance, giving Millennium Dream the graceful and instantly recognisable silhouette of a true slipper launch. At approximately 25 feet in length and slightly wider than many traditional Andrews examples, she provides a little more breathing space within the cockpit without compromising the delicacy of the original design.

Her generous cockpit has been arranged for relaxed and sociable cruising. Four traditional chairs are accompanied by Lloyd Loom cushions, together with a full width bench seat and cushion. Lloyd Loom seating has become almost inseparable from the classic slipper launch, offering a simple, elegant and versatile arrangement that allows guests to sit comfortably and converse freely.

Quiet 3kW electric propulsion further enhances the experience, allowing Millennium Dream to glide peacefully through the water. Her electric installation is supported by a bank of 12 batteries, removing the noise and vibration of a conventional engine and allowing attention to remain firmly on the river, the surroundings and the company aboard.

For those attracted to the timeless beauty of a vintage Andrews slipper launch, but concerned by the maintenance and potential complications associated with owning an elderly all timber craft, Millennium Dream offers an exceptionally appealing alternative.

Beautifully built, carefully maintained, peaceful underway and wonderfully sociable, she combines the romance of the traditional Thames slipper launch with the reassurance and practicality of more modern construction.

Inventory included

Four chairs
Four Lloyd Loom chair cushions
Full width bench seat and cushion
One carpet, mat or rug
Six fenders
Two mooring ropes
Canopy with three side screen sections
All over winter cover
Cover supports
Boathook
Flagstaff and pennant pole
Anchor and chain
Fire extinguisher
Twelve batteries
Ignition, boat and battery isolator keys