Doris
A unique opportunity to own a real piece of British history reputed to have been used by the royal family
Doris is a 65ft twin screw motor houseboat built in 1930-31 for one Montague Evans at great expense. She was recognised as the most luxurious boat on the Norfolk Broads at that time having 'electric light' and a full-size bath when many houses at that time had neither.
Doris has had a chequered past having been reputedly used as a hideaway for Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson, frequented by George Formby and Charlie Chaplain, then in the 1970s sunk for several years on Lake Lothing in Lowestoft. She has had a fire on board and has almost been lost forever when she became badly neglected for many years.
I have spent the past four years restoring her hull. I have replaced all rotten planking with new Larch along with over half her Oak timbers and some Oak frames using the traditional methods and materials. She has also had a new beam shelf fitted on the port side along with a new rubbing streak which on this boat is a major part of her strength.
There are still many things to do including replacing bulkheads that were removed some years ago, removing the isoflex covering the laid deck presumably to stop it leaking and replacing the aft deck which has rotted in places. The engines are at present removed and stored.
I have copes of the original bill of sale, fixtures and fittings lists and descriptions, launch photos of both interior and exterior and many other useful pictures, letters, press cuttings etc.
Doris would make a grand live aboard with little work or could be put to work as a luxury charter 1930s style after complete restoration.
Doris is up for sale and I am open to negotiation / part exchange offers. Viewing is strictly by appointment. For those of you who know her please do not climb aboard with out permission. I will gladly show you around.
- See National Register of Historic Ships entry for Doris
Contact:
Richard or Karen
kadildally@aol.com
Mobile: 07970 032 683 / 07787 552 342