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. Cygnet II is the only known survivor of just five 20 foot slipper launches ever built in the 1930's, according to a former Andrews employee named Sammy Arthur. She was in very poor condition when found but was completely restored in 1989 and then 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 over a decade 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 admiring glances".
The construction of Cygnet II is solid mahogany panels and planking on oak frames. The engine is the original 12hp Morris Vedette MK1 (847cc side valve). The engine number is 580 and stamped 20-4-32 on the block; it was introduced in January 1932 and the plate on the engine states 'Property of Morris Motors' so may have been a test engine on loan to Andrews. Paul is selling with the boat 2 spare Morris Mk I engines and various other spares. 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.
The BSS is valid through to July 2026. Give us a call on 01491 578870 to view this true Thames classic.