VOLANTE
Volante is a 39′ 1916 Bailey & Lowe motor sailer that two years ago under went a total restoration, her interior is a little too ‘ikea’ for me but its a work of art in terms of craftsmanship. With her sailing set-up & powered by a 55hp diesel Volvo she would be perfect for extended cruising.
Some on-line research by woody, Ian McDonald, has turned up a photo (below) on the Wellington Classic Yacht Trust blog of a Volante, built by Charles Baily Jr. in 1915. She was in NAPS in WWII (1942-3) & extensively damaged in a fire in 1943.The name plate on board (appears to be a modern addition?) says Chas Bailey & Sons.
Interested to confirm / learn more about her past before her recent ‘make-over’. Currently for sale, asking $250k.
Harold Kidd Input – The information on VOLANTE is basically correct although the Baileys have been confused rather effectively. She was built by Chas. Bailey Jr NOT by Bailey & Lowe. Nor was she built by “Chas. Bailey & Sons”; the sons didn’t appear on the letterhead until around 1934.
She was built for H. G. Anderson of Wellington in the winter of 1915, shipped down unfinished and Anderson finished off her cabin-top etc. She originally had twin engines of 40hp (total?).
She must have grown a bit because she was built as a 36 footer.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER – MOVIE REVIEW
Last nights screening of Nina Wells ‘Birds of a Feather’ movie at the Vic Theater in Devonport was a cracker. Its a great kiwi tale & appeals to even those with low interest in smelly old outboard motors. Not a spare seat in the house, in fact never before have I seen so many woodys (& partners) together in one place 🙂 & everyone left with a big smile on their face. For those that missed it, I’ll find out if & when there is another screening & let you know 😉
Harold Kidd Review – The film last night was just amazing. Made you want to rush out and buy back all the Seagulls you once had. I recommend buying the DVD for a great laugh and a real Kiwi experience.
Discover more from waitematawoodys.com #1 for classic wooden boat stories, info, advice & news - updated daily - 14+ million views
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
waitematawoodys.com #1 for classic wooden boat stories, info, advice & news - updated daily - 14+ million views 
that would be cool Alan
LikeLike
Hi Gavin
We should look at a screening of the Seagull movie in Wellington. I’ll send you an email.
Cheers Alan
LikeLike
Volante’s current owner must be a real estate agent. On the seagull matter, I have a silver century long shaft which might be for sale, though I think she’s been appropriated by wcyt to power Lizzie. It goes well, restored by Ross Ledger.
LikeLike
I had a closer look at those two bronze plates, the builder’s plate and the NAPS plate. Both appear to be, shall I say, “unofficial”; perhaps “free-lance” is even kinder.
LikeLike
I have one son who may think this is just the thing to do. Bought him the DVD. Having lit the blue paper, we’ll see if he lights up.
He’s the mechanical guy, I could build the hull…………………………
LikeLike
I endorse Harolds comment on the film, it was an enjoyable event and rather like the boat show for me seeing all the real boaties of Auckland pouring into the theatre. Nina et all did a fantastic job.
LikeLike
I can send a Seagull your way if you like Harold! I’m currently exceeding the 5 Seagull rule. Nothing good can come from owning more than 5 Seagulls.
LikeLike
The information on VOLANTE is basically correct although the Baileys have been confused rather effectively. She was built by Chas. Bailey Jr NOT by Bailey & Lowe. Nor was she built by “Chas. Bailey & Sons”; the sons didn’t appear on the letterhead until around 1934.
She was built for H. G. Anderson of Wellington in the winter of 1915, shipped down unfinished and Anderson finished off her cabin-top etc. She originally had twin engines of 40hp (total?).
She must have grown a bit because she was built as a 36 footer.
The film last night was just amazing. Made you want to rush out and buy back all the Seagulls you once had. I recommend buying the DVD for a great laugh and a real Kiwi experience.
LikeLike