An historic slipper stern launch or open motor launch as it would have been known at the time of its build in the early nineteen thirties. According to a former Andrews employee named Sammy Arthur, just 4 – 5, 20 foot ‘turtle deck’ slipper launches were ever constructed between 1928 – 1935 - Cygnet II is the only known survivor, making her truly unique.  

She was carefully and faithfully restored in 1989 and later became an exhibit in the Boat Museum at Basildon. Once the museum shut Cygnet II needed a new home and at this point she was made river ready. The current owner and vendor bought her through HSC 15 years ago and has had an enormous amount of enjoyment. As he says "she is one of the prettiest boats on the Thames and always attracts many admiring glances".

The construction of Cygnet II is solid wide mahogany panels and planking on oak frames. She has an unusual mahogany turtle deck. The engine is the original 12hp Morris Vedette MK1 (847cc side valve). 

Cygnet II has a trailer for ease of storage and transportation.

Henwood and Dean recently worked their magic revarnishing and painting Cygnet II inside and out. 

Cygnet 11 is a previous winner of the Andrews Trophy for the ‘Best Slipper Launch, she has also been a runner up. She had also been a major feature article in both the ‘Classic Boat’ magazine and the German magazine ‘Boote’.

The BSS is valid through to July 2026. Give us a call on 01491 578870 to view this true Thames classic.