Technical Description
'Virgo' is a fine example of a classic 1920's gentleman's launch designed for sheltered coastal waters and estuary cruising. Her varnished mahogany planks are laid in carvel fashion over oak and metal frames and at 25 ft she is very much in the style of many of C.G. Pettersson’s early designs.
Her upright stem and fine entry lines, coupled with her broad shoulders at foredeck level, give her handling characteristics well suited to the short chop often found in the Solent. Every third frame is metal, enhancing athwartships rigidity. Her beam of 6 ft is carried well aft at waterline level and the small amount of tumblehome at deck level leads nicely to the 'knuckled form' stern, which is overlaid with GRP sheathing and is finished with a blue enamel paint system.
Virgo Day Launch - click here to view Virgo's plans
Specifications
| Vessel Type: | Day Launch |
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| Length overall: | 7.65m (25ft) |
| Beam: | 1.88m (6ft 2in) |
| Draft: | 0.85m (2ft 9in) |
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| Hull: | Mahogany planks on oak & metal frames |
The newly laid foredeck and stern deck have fore & aft laid teak planks laid over a timber sub deck supported by oak beams. Teak is also used on the cockpit floor, the panels and the top of the engine housing. Mahogany is used throughout for the other main structures; windscreen frame, coamings, engine housing, cockpit lockers and bulkheads. Access to the forward cabin is through a pair of solid mahogany doors set into the forward bulkhead. A hinged hatch is incorporated into the aft bulkhead for access to the fuel tanks and the steering quadrant.
The new Beta Marine B-60HE engine is supported upon new mahogany bearers, which are secured to substantial longitudinal timber beds. A new electrical system has been installed. The two 12v batteries are fitted into their own box alongside the engine housing. A bespoke seven way circuit breaker is housed within the forward cabin, together with the master switches. Two automatic bilge pumps are situated in the main bilge forward of the engine with a discharge high on the port side. The system allows for a maintained electrical supply even when the batteries are isolated.
When in commission 'Virgo' carries an extensive inventory of navigation and safety equipment including radio and GPS units. Following her restoration, 'Virgo' was surveyed again and the following is an extract from the Surveyor's comments:
" 'Virgo' has been the subject of a complete refit and 'in part' rebuild which has reinstated the craft to her present good condition."
