Cera used to belong to Rodney Bewes, he of the Likely Lads, a popular series on the TV in the 1970s. He was a well known figure of the Thames Vintage Boat Club scene and a regular at Swan Upping with his mid cockpit cabin launch Cera. Sold a couple of years ago to a young boatbuilder as a home the boat is now for sale again and based in Shepperton where a mooring could be available by separate arrangement.

Frank Bandey was a famous yacht designer and built this boat with the best of cruiser designs in mind. She is somewhere between a Broads mid cockpit cruiser and a Bates Starcraft. The boat has a lovely feel to her on board and would make a great family cruiser. The following information comes directly from the Thames Vintage Boat Club archives.

Name: CERA

TVBC Boat: Yes

Plaque No. 099

Type: Centre Cockpit Cruiser

Builder: Richmond Slipways, Twickenham

Designer: Frank Bandey

Year Built: 1961

Specifications

Construction: Carvel, curved transom, all teak on oak

Length: 28' Beam: 10' 6"' Draft: 3' 6"'

Superstructure: Mahogany

Description: 3 Berths, dinette and galley in fore cabin. 2 berths in aft cabin. Centre cockpit.



Engine Details

Engine Make: BMC Engine Type: Diesel

Engine Layout: Engine Model:

Year/Serial No. CCorHP: 70hp/2500cc



Boat History:

Originally fitted with a Thorneycroft diesel engine.
1968 Engine replaced with present BMC.
Her first owner sailed her off the Scottish coast.
1970 - Owned by 'Bomber' Harris, and used on the East coast of England, once taking part in the North Foreland Race.
1980's - Owned by the Commodore of the Royal Yacht Club, moored at Ramsgate and used extensively in France and Belgium.
1990 - Kept on the Thames at Richmond, owned by the landlord of the 3 Pigeons.
August 1996 - Acquired by Rodney Bewes of Putney.
August 2018 - Acquired by current owner