1948 Hutchinson Sport Utility

New asking price of $36,000.   Classic 1948 Hutchinson 26 Sport Utility "Royal Lady".  One of the most famous, and lovely mahogany runabouts in the Thousand Islands is now offered for sale by the family that has owned her for about 50 years.  This special post-war beauty was designed by Glen Furness, Hutchinson Boat Works in-house designer.  He rounded the upper portion of the stem in order to match the curve of the covering boards.   The windshield is in three sections, and the center one can be removed for more air flow, and for access to the bow cleat or anchor.   The beam was increased, and moved forward to provide more flare.  So this 26 is drier in choppy seas.  And the most significant feature is that a hard chine was added underwater to the round hull shape to get the boat on plane faster, and to minimize rolling.   Yet, she still has the traditional  soft, dry ride in a good chop.  (please see attached video).

Power is provided with a Chrysler 318 c.i. V-8 producing 225 horsepower.    The engine has a nice noise level, and provides lots of power.  The  Hutchinson 26 comes up on plane easily, and has an amazing level running angle.   The ride is very soft, and handling is easy with the large wood steering wheel.   A  single lever control makes boat handling easy.

"Royal Lady" has received the best maintenance and care over six decades. Only two families in the Thousand Islands have owned this special yacht since 1948!  She has a home in  a wonderful boathouse on Round Island, and the varnish and brightwork are flawless.   From her gleaming original  Honduran red mahogany hull, decks and transom, to the brightwork in the interior,  "Royal Lady" is  a head turner.     She is ready to show, enjoy and use.   This rare boat is for the discriminating antique and classic boat affectionado.   Very seldom do these classic Hutchinson mahogany sport utilities come on the on the brokerage market.

"Royal Lady" was featured in a chapter in Anthony Mollica Jr's book entitled        "Classic Boats of the Thousand Islands".  Mollica writes "This boat was extremely comfortable, beautifully constructed with select mahoganies, fast, and as attractive as any post-war sport utility; however it was expensive to build, so production was limited to four or five boats each year."  (page 65)

Mr. Mollica went on to write:  "Royal Lady" spent several seasons on Cherry Island as "Win Lee" before moving to Round Island, her present home port.   Her owners have always provided wonderful care, and her immaculate appearance is evidence of thoughtful ownership over six decades."

Having driven this special Hutchinson  26 Sport Utility, it is quickly evident why this classic is so popular and coveted by collectors and residents of the region.  She is on plane quickly, and at a very level running angle.   She handles with a light hand on the helm, and her flat wake is attributed to her efficient hull design. "Royal Lady" is a pleasure  to drive.   She is fast,  dry and soft riding.  The marine designer at  Hutchinson Boat Works got it right in 1948.

Bring offers!! Family must sell.