Slipper launch

A slipper launch is a traditional River Thames pleasure boat normally of wooden construction to seat between 4 and 8 passengers. These popular launches were originally introduced in the 1930s with classical designs from Meakes of Marlow and later from Andrews of Bourne End during the 1950s. Launches were also built by Alf Parrott at Henley-on-Thames in 1960s & 1970s. Alf Parrott Slipper Launches were initially built in marine ply then later in glass fibre, launches were 20 feet (6.1 m) in length with Stuart Turner single cylinder petrol engines. Alf Parrott Launches can still be seen on the River Thames.

Construction and Hull Architecture

During a renovation project the hull shape and construction can be viewed along with the rarely seen framing of the slipper stern.

The hull boards and stringers sealing the gap between covering each plank are made from mahogany. Lateral frames spaced at approximately 1 metre centres are formed from oak. The deck over is constructed of afromosia with multiple layers of varnish providing a furniture like finish.

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  Mayflower 1934 Meakes Launch reputedly once owned by Keith Moon

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  Mayflower - The Slipper Stern view

Notes and references

http://www.slipperlaunch.com/ http://slipperlaunch.net/

• Peter Freebody & Co builders & restorers of slipper stern launches