1920's Open Steam Launch

A magnificent example of early 20th century British craftsmanship, Halcyon is a 5.05 metre open steam launch originally built at Harts Boatyard, Surbiton, around 1920. Her mahogany carvel hull laid over oak frames exudes timeless charm, complemented by her varnished decks, maroon topsides, and beautifully maintained interior.

Halcyon underwent a complete hull rebuild in 1998 by Kevin Halcrow of Lakeland Wooden Boats, a restoration documented in the Steam Boat Association’s Funnel magazine (Edition 99). Since then, she has benefited from continuous, meticulous maintenance, earning a reputation across the SBA for her outstanding condition and presentation.

Power is provided by a Stuart Turner Swan twin simple 3 IHP steam engine built by Roger Mallinson in 1987, paired with a three drum water tube boiler built by Steamswell Boilers, Chew Magna, in 2023. The boiler is fully certified and registered with the Steam Boat Association Services Approval Authority. Halcyon operates at a working pressure of 10.4 bar, burning coal, with condensing, injector, assist fan, and multiple feed pumps for reliable and efficient steaming.

Over her long and distinguished life, Halcyon has been a familiar and admired sight at classic and steam boat gatherings across the UK. Her long list of accolades includes

Concours d’Elegance, Plymouth Classic Boat Rally 2016
Reade Propeller Award, Thames Traditional Boat Festival 2018
Horsham Cleat (Presentation of the Craft), Thames Traditional Boat Festival 2018
SBA Stuart Turner Cup 2016
SBA Montagu Challenge Trophy 2018
Windermere Kettle (Finest Polished Brass) 2021
Dartmouth Royal Regatta Steam Boat Award Winner 2015, 2016, 2021

She was also featured in Channel 4’s Devon and Cornwall, Series 2 Episode 1, filmed at the Dartmouth Royal Regatta in 2019 and first broadcast in 2020.

Halcyon is offered for sale complete with her custom built galvanised twin axle trailer featuring a remote controlled electric winch, designed for effortless single handed launching and recovery. The trailer doubles as a secure storage cradle with load bearing mudguards providing easy access for maintenance.

She comes with a new fully certified boiler certificate and an array of bespoke accessories including a steam siren, whistle, speed log, tools, and fittings.

Maintained to an exceptional standard and admired wherever she steams, Halcyon represents an unmissable opportunity to own one of Britain’s finest small steam launches, a true collector’s vessel combining heritage, beauty, and reliable performance.