HISTORY & DESCRIPTION:
The Bates Starcraft needs little introduction as one of the UK’s most success wooden motor-cruiser designs, produced by a family run boat-builders on the River Thames at Chertsey. The business, founded in 1948 continued until the mid-1970s offering a range of vessel from 20ft. cruisers to large motor-yachts. The company styled themselves as English Chris-Craft and with great success.
The ’33’ was a popular mid-range size of which about thirty-five examples are know to have been built. The aft cabin version offers accommodation for up to six persons in a light and spacious interior with the distinct 1950s/60s styling which has become synonymous with the Starcraft.
A dedicated owners club was formed in 1993 by Starcraft enthusiasts and members of the Bates family. The club holds regular events and is a good source of information and support in maintaining a classic motor-cruiser.
SEA MELODY launched in 1956, hull number 31 was built for Leslie Day of London. In 1972 John Dyson became the second owner followed by Paul Hudson of Cheam in 1975. V Turneau of Biggin Hill bought SEA MELODY in 1979 before selling to Peter Freebody in 1983. Freebodys had looked after SEA MELODY since 1967 and refurbished her before selling to John Harris of London in 1986. The current owners purchased SEA MELODY some years ago and won the prestigious Bates Wheel at Henley.
Double diagonal teak hull, copper fastened to steam bent oak timbers. Oak centre-line and framing. Flared bow, hard chines, long keel and transom stern. Varnished Mahogany superstructure, teak-laid decks over marine-ply. Original chromium plated deck fittings. 24 volt Eberspacher heating.
Spacious, well-planned, original accommodation with polished Mahogany joinery for six in three cabins.
Large Deck Saloon with dinette converting to two berths
Aft Stateroom with twin berths
Fore Cabin with twin berths
Fitted Galley
Heads compartment with Jabsco marine WC.
PAIR 35hp BMC ‘NAVIGATOR’ PETROL ENGINES
BOAT SAFETY CERTIFICATE
Contact us for more information or to arrange an appointment to view.
GUIDE: SOLD – May 2019
LYING: River Thames
VIEWING: Through Classic Yacht Brokerage – 01905-356482
