Contemporary Classic Launch (2019 Build, 1924 Design)
A beautifully realised homage to the golden age of boating

Step back into an era of elegance and effortless style with Liberty Belle, a superb 20ft contemporary classic inspired by Nelson Zimmer’s 1924 Palm Beach runabout. Built between 2017 and 2019 and launched at Levington Marina, Ipswich, she offers the unmistakable glamour of a 1920s launch combined with the reassurance and usability of modern construction.

Handcrafted by an experienced boatbuilder, Liberty Belle is a carefully considered and exceptionally well-executed build. Her hull is formed over solid pine frames, with marine ply and epoxy construction below the chine, sheathed in fibreglass for durability, while the topsides are finished in beautifully varnished Red Meranti planking. The result is a boat that captures the warmth and character of a classic, without the ongoing demands of a fully traditional hull.

Her presence on the water is striking. So much so that she was selected by George Clooney for his feature film The Boys in the Boat, a testament to her authenticity and visual appeal.

Powered by a 120hp Yanmar diesel engine, Liberty Belle offers smooth, reliable and economical cruising. She comes with a selection of propellers, allowing for relaxed river use or increased performance when desired, making her equally suited to gentle Thames cruising or more open water exploration.

Onboard, she has been recently updated with new butterscotch high-tech upholstery, complementing her classic lines while offering comfort and practicality. The finish throughout is of a very high standard, with gloss varnished decks and interiors that reflect the care and attention invested in her build.

She is offered as a complete and ready-to-enjoy package, including trailer, cover, lines, stakes and associated equipment. A full build file and survey are available, alongside a valid BSS Safety Certificate until June 2029 and EA Thames licence for 2026.

If vintage craft are your pleasure and a runabout is something you desire, I would strongly recommend taking the time to visit Liberty Belle. As impressive as she appears in photographs, she is even more so in person. It is a boat that immediately captures attention and admiration.

In my line of work, I see a great many beautiful and interesting boats, but every so often one stands apart from the rest. Liberty Belle is very much one of those.