The tendency to order boats that go faster, have resulted in a shape
for this elegant small launch that reflects those possibilities. It was
originally conceived as the partner for a Bristol 29 (later updated to a 32 footer), to transport the owner to the big boats’ mooring and for occasional local outings, and as such reflects the design parameters for the
32 footer. The
Bristol 32 was designed for a maximum speed of 20 knots which, among other things, necessitated a spray rail. This design feature was copied into the
Bristol 16, and the hull shape in general is suitable for higher speeds, even if the first boat only sports a modest 2 cylinder engine.
Designer Andrew Wolstenholme as always managed to weave his magic over this deceptively simple looking design, that can only be fully appreciated in the flesh. Overall it’s a delicately shaped launch with the curved transom, inboard rudder with tiller steering, and the subtly stepped sheer, a design feature in common with all our boats. Combined with the flare in the bow and the tumblehome in the stern does this design not only pose a very ‘yachty’ interpretation of the humble small motor launch, it’s a very capable launch as well, the sharp stem slicing through the water while the spray rail, the flair in the bow and especially the lower rubbing strake, shoulder the bigger waves aside and keep the cockpit dry.
Every boat, as always, is built to order in modern wood/epoxy construction with long lasting finishes, coppercoat antifouling, etc. Your personal taste can be reflected in every aspect of this little jewel: The level of finish, the cockpit layout, colours, materials, furnishings, etc.
The boat can be finished in teak, mahogany, oak, elm or any other suitable timber that takes your fancy, with engine sizes that range from a single to a three cylinder engine, turning it into a semi-displacement boat.
The Bristol 16 has turned out to be a very capable, well behaved craft with a surprising turn of speed even with a small engine.
Price on application.
Read review article Grand Designs:
Watercraft Magazine