Boat Description
ARGO was extensively rebuilt over the course of two years from 2022 to 2024 with over 1000 man hours going into the rebuild. Everything was replaced, including the new engine, decks, wheelhouse floors, electrics, steering, and fittings. The entire build was supervised by a surveyor and has been finished to the most exacting standards! She presents in stunning condition with fabulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. She has a new 25hp Beta diesel engine, new cockpit canopy, tonneau cover, teak cockpit, and an electric windlass. She also features a Fusion stereo system with switchable speakers for cabin and aft cockpit. Individually switchable lighting is available for the cabin, cockpit, wheelhouse, navigation, anchor, and underwater lights. The boat is equipped with twin 12v batteries with solar charging and shore power. A separate diesel heater is provided for the cabin and cockpit. Additionally, there are 12v USB charging points.
Early viewing highly recommended!
Refit Notes
Between 2022 and 2024, ARGO was kept indoors while undergoing an extensive refit. I visited the vessel multiple times during this period, consulting on the works at key times and observing progress. The works included, but were not limited to:
- Replacing or repairing all rotten timbers.
- Stripping the deck covering and repairing rot underneath.
- Fitting new stern bits.
- Fitting new lodging knees, where required.
- Laying a new deck.
- Replacing the wheelhouse entirely.
- Fitting a new electrical system.
- Extensive overhaul of the main engine.
- Fitting a new engine box.
- Fitting a new steering system and column.
- Fitting a new windlass and bow roller.
- A full repaint and varnish.
Hull
A traditional long-keeled motor launch with a steel shoe-protected rudder and a fixed propeller. The hull was made of 2'' x 1 1/2" wood frames with 1 ft spacings, doubled below the waterline, and covered with 4 1/2" planks. At some point in later life, she was professionally sheathed by Attrill H & Sons boatyard on the Isle of Wight.
Rudder
The semi-balanced wooden rudder was transom hung and supported by a heavy-duty steel shoe at the base, which was replaced during the refit.
Deck
The original tongue-and-groove deck was repaired during the refit and fitted with new lodging knees on both sides of the aft deck and on starboard at the aft end of the cabin. A 2.9mm ply cover was then fitted and covered with G-Flex epoxy resin. The deck was then laid with Iroko and caulked with black Sikaflex.
Wheelhouse
The wheelhouse was completely replaced during the refit. Constructed of Sapele and glued and screwed invisibly, it is fitted with fixed glass windows and has been designed and built with consideration to improve the look of the vessel.
Electrics
The DC system on board is 12v, provided by two maintenance-free AGM 90Ah (Mastervolt) batteries, both new as of Jan 2023, securely installed under the port inside seat. Charging is provided by an engine-driven alternator (capacity unknown), a flexible solar panel 100w (with 75/10 MPPT Victron) mounted on the wheelhouse, and a 20A battery charger (Victron). Batteries are independently switched but connected by a Cyrix coupler (Victron) for emergency engine starting and charging.