Venture Cup icon Double Century launches on Windermere

Double Century is one of the most acclaimed models of the rare Fairey Huntsman 31. Only 32 were built and they are widely considered to be one of the most classic powerboat designs of all time.

In 1972, Double Century took part in the longest, toughest and most prestigious powerboat race ever held - a 15-day event covering 2,400 miles from London to a spectacular finish in Monte Carlo.

Known as the Venture Cup, it is still considered to be the greatest powerboat race of all time. Double Century was one of only seven out of 21 boats to complete the course and took the best overall performance prize and only missed out on first place in the race due to stopping to rescue three elderly men whose boat had capsized.

Owner Andrew Turner, who runs Windermere Classic Cruises, is adding the boat to his rental fleet so guests will be able to enjoy a two-hour cruising experience.

“I’m thrilled to be bringing this classic example of our boating heritage to Lake Windermere. Double Century is an epic powerboat with an incredible racing history,” he said.

“We have lots of original memorabilia from the race which I can’t wait to share with other boat lovers. It’s going to be an incredible opportunity for people to experience cruising on England’s most beautiful lake onboard one of the most beautifully designed boats ever made.”

The original owner of Double Century was sherry importer David Palengat who named the boat after one of his best-selling sherries. During the race it was believed that his boat was laden with gallons of sherry, a weight penalty that apparently lessened very rapidly as the race wore on.

The famous vessel has arrived in the Lake District from its previous home in Southampton where it was originally built and has been fully restored.

Visitors can book to go on the Double Century at www.windermereyachtcruises.co.uk or by calling Andrew on 07805 515745.