Originally commissioned in 1947 by London stockbroker Mr. George Harrison, Albaquila is an extraordinary vessel designed for long-distance cruising and easily managed by just two people. As one of only two yachts of her class ever constructed, she represents a rare opportunity for discerning buyers seeking timeless elegance and maritime history.
The Eagle Class was introduced in the late 1940s as a round-bilged displacement cruiser, evolving into a semi-planing hull design in the late 1950s. This design featured hard chines and a modern layout, accommodating twin engine installations for enhanced performance. The Super Eagle, as a larger variant, offered increased space and power, making it suitable for extended cruising
Mechanical
Twin Perkins 6:354 6 cylinder
240hp in total
Borg Warner gearbox - ratio 1:7:2
Shaft drive
1 bronze prop and 1 stainless steel prop
Hours - Port 876 and Starboard 670
Electrical
12v batteries
Shorepower
Solar charging240v ringmain from shorepower
Navigation
Plotter with radar - Raymarine RL70C
GPS - Eagle Journey
Autopilot - Autohelm 3000
AIS
GPS - Raymarine RN300
DSC/VHF radio - Cobra
Speed
Depth - Lowrance X65
Interior & Domestic
6 berths in 2 cabins plus saloon
4 singles and 1 double
2 x heads and showers
Hot and cold pressurised water system
Mikuni warm air heating
Galley with oven grill and 2 ring burner
Microwave
Fridge/freezer
Double Sink
Reupholstered wheelhouse
Deck
Teak deck
Anchor and chain
Electric windlass
Rear boarding ladder
Side gates
Davits
Safety
Liferaft
Manual and electric bilge pumps
bilge pump monitor
Search light
Canvas
Rear cockpit enclosure
Wheel cover
Hatch covers
Miscellaneous
Small wooden tender
Documentation
Evidence of 5 years clear title
Registration certificate
2019 insurance survey - available on request
Construction
Built in William Osborne of Littlehampton’s shipyard, Albaquila boasts double-diagonal Makore planking on laminated Makore frames, with pitch pine heavy risings, an oak keel, teak decks, and a mahogany superstructure. Her impeccable craftsmanship is a testament to the golden age of yacht building. Upon her launch, Mrs. Harrison was presented with the Albaquila launch bowl, which remains with the yacht and is included in the sale.
Owners Comments
Built in William Osborne of Littlehampton’s shipyard, Albaquila boasts double-diagonal Makore planking on laminated Makore frames, with pitch pine heavy risings, an oak keel, teak decks, and a mahogany superstructure. Her impeccable craftsmanship is a testament to the golden age of yacht building. Upon her launch, Mrs. Harrison was presented with the Albaquila launch bowl, which remains with the yacht and is included in the sale.
A Storied Past
Albaquila was reviewed by Motor Boat magazine in 1949 (a copy of this review is included) and has been owned by several notable individuals, including those with naval ties. She even attended the Queen’s Jubilee Spithead Review in 1977. After changing hands over the years, she was eventually discovered in a state of disrepair at Hoo Marina, Kent, before being lovingly restored by passionate owners.
In 2008, her current owners, with over 40 years of experience in wooden boat restoration, took on Albaquila as a labour of love. Transported to Liverpool Marina, she underwent an extensive and meticulous five-year restoration to bring her back to her former glory while preserving as much of her original structure as possible. Her restoration included the use of the finest materials and expert craftsmanship, resulting in a yacht that is both a functional seaworthy vessel and a stunning piece of history.
Awards & Recognition
Recognised for her historical significance, Albaquila is included on the National Historic Ships UK Register (Certificate No. 2133). She has sailed around the Irish Sea and proved her seaworthiness and reliability. In 2017, she won the Best Motor Boat Award at the Isle of Man Classic Boat Rally, cementing her reputation as a standout classic yacht.
Specifications & Current Condition
After her restoration, Albaquila is in excellent condition, combining classic elegance with modern reliability. Copies of a photograph album detailing her original construction, passed down through generations of the lead builder’s family. She has most recently been fitted with radar and dome, alongside her regular maintenance and varnishing, as well as upgraded upholstery in the wheelhouse which is not pictured. She is a truly unique vessel, ready for her next chapter on the water.