Beautiful Boats
We are lucky enough to look after some of the most beautiful boats on the River Thames and have been given the opportunity to build launches that we hope will perpetuate the craftsmanship and skill of the Thames boatbuilder.
Courtesy © Benjamin Mendlowitz.
As seen in the 2005 Calendar of Wooden Boats. CONSUTA - The extraordinary 50ft steam powered umpire’s launch Consuta was built in 1898. She is constructed of 4 layers of Mahogany stitched together with copper wire making a strong, light and fast hull ideal for following racing eights at Henley Regatta. Her restoration, by Henwood & Dean Boatbuilders, was completed in 2001 and Colin Henwood is now proud to be a trustee of the Charity that operates and cares for this magnificent boat.
The 13ft Electric Launch 'Polly'
Henwood & Dean. POLLY - In June 1998, at the International Wooden Boat Show in Greenwich, Colin Henwood was awarded the Classic Boat trophy for the Best Professional Boatbuilder for the small but stunning electric launch Polly. This outstanding little 13 foot carvel built boat was built to commission and is a celebration of the highest quality of traditional craftsmanship
The Thames Single Skiff 'Sweet Chestnut'
C J Photography. SWEET CHESTNUT is the result of a long held dream by one of our young and enthusiastic boatbuilders, William Howard, who has always wanted to build a skiff - a traditional Thames rowing boat.
Henwood & Dean Boatbuilders are committed to investing in keeping traditional skills alive, and thanks to the support of an anonymous benefactor; the involvement of John Cox, one of the most experienced skiff builders in the country; and Colin Henwood's eye for detail, this delightful little boat has emerged.
An Eye For Detail
C J Photography. To meet the environmental concerns of the 21st century this 18ft boat has been built using sustainable local timber, Sweet Chestnut, which is both durable, easy to work and attractive. The skiff is fastened with copper nails, the fittings brass, the rowlocks bronze, and the hand forged banding, sculls and cane seat backs made by local craftsmen. She is finished off in true Victorian style with a cove line of gold leaf.
With the combined skill, passion and enthusiasm of three consummate craftsmen it is hoped that this beautiful boat will inspire and help fund the perpetuity of the art of skiff-building in this country.