Custom Launch

Overview

Design and Build

‘Miss Amy’ is a striking custom-built gentleman’s motor launch, designed by Laurent Giles and built by Jonathan Leech in 1992. Her lines take clear inspiration from the iconic Riva Aquarama, giving her a timeless and elegant profile that stands apart from modern production boats.

She represents a style of boating that is as much about experience as it is about function. Clean lines, varnished finishes, and a purposeful stance combine to create a launch that feels both refined and capable.

Hull and Construction

‘Miss Amy’ is built on a deep V planing hull, designed to deliver a smooth and confident ride across a range of conditions. The construction combines traditional craftsmanship with durable modern materials.

Deep V planing hull

Wooden stringers with western red cedar planking on plywood

Fully epoxy coated internally

High gloss varnished teak throughout

This approach results in a hull that is both visually striking and structurally sound, with the deep V form allowing her to handle chop with ease.

Layout and Deck Arrangement

The layout is simple, elegant, and highly sociable. Seating is arranged around the helm and cockpit, with additional space aft for relaxation.

Helm and navigator seating

Bench seating aft

Two sunpads on the aft deck

Upholstery finished in cream leather

The cockpit flows naturally into the aft deck, with easy access to the swim platform. Storage is thoughtfully integrated throughout, including beneath seating and within the engine bay compartments.

Engine and Performance

Power comes from a recently installed MerCruiser 350 MPI Magnum V8, fitted in 2021 and showing only 11 hours. This engine transforms the boat’s character, delivering strong, responsive performance along with the unmistakable sound of a V8.

350HP V8 petrol engine

Only 11 engine hours

Leg drive with stainless steel propeller

Top speed approximately 40 knots

The combination of power and hull design allows ‘Miss Amy’ to cruise comfortably or accelerate with real intent when desired.

Condition and Ownership

With a recently installed engine and careful ownership, ‘Miss Amy’ presents in very good condition. She has been well looked after and benefits from both a summer tonneau cover and full winter cover, helping to preserve her finish.

Location and Viewing

Currently ashore in St Mawes.

Viewings and sea trials are available by prior arrangement. Please contact us for further information.

Specification

Construction

Designed by Laurent Giles

Built by Jonathan Leech (1992)

Deep V planing hull

Western red cedar planking on plywood

Wooden stringers

Fully epoxy coated interior

High gloss varnished teak finish

Summer tonneau cover

Full winter cover

Double axle road trailer

Engineering

MerCruiser 350 MPI Magnum V8 petrol engine (2021)

Approx. 11 engine hours

Recently serviced

Leg drive

3-blade stainless steel propeller

Top speed approximately 40 knots

Full engine instrumentation including RPM, temperature, fuel, speed, volts and trim

Engine start and house batteries with isolator

12V control panel

Electric bilge pump

Manual bilge pump

Compass

On Deck

Helm and navigator seats

Bench seating aft

Two aft sunpads

Cream leather upholstery

Stainless steel windscreen frame with wipers and wash

Stainless deck fittings including cleats, handrails, fairleads and air inlets

Storage lockers aft of seating

Engine bay access with additional storage

Step-through access to swim platform

Swim ladder

Broker’s Comments

‘Miss Amy’ is one of those boats that draws attention without trying too hard. The proportions are right, the detailing is beautifully executed, and there is a real sense of occasion every time you step aboard.

The V8 suits her perfectly. It is not just about speed, although she has plenty of that, it is the character it brings. The sound, the response, and the way the boat lifts and settles into the water all add to the experience.

She is just as enjoyable pottering up the river for an evening as she is opening up across open water. The deep V hull gives confidence when conditions change, which means you are not limited to calm days.

For anyone looking for something a little different, something with personality as well as presence, ‘Miss Amy’ offers a style of boating that is increasingly rare to find.