Bates Starcraft 40 Rajdhani

A 40ft Bates Starcraft

This exceptional Bates Starcraft was discovered on the River Severn by HSC for a customer who fell in love with New Venture and wanted a similar boat. We found a slightly neglected Starcraft on the River Severn. At that time, she had no flying bridge and a pair of rather smoky engines. The purchaser first took her to Classic Boatworks in Norfolk to rectify any structural problems. Rupert Latham then refurbished the interior with the assistance of surveyor John Tough, who oversaw every stage of the rebuild.

The following winter, after a summer of cruising, the owner decided to enhance the boat further by adding a flying bridge with duplicated controls for full control from either position. At this point, Rupert Latham was downsizing, so Rajdhani went up the slipway at Dennetts in Chertsey for the final modifications. Two years into ownership, a pair of new Nanni diesel engines were fitted to complete the rebuild. The owner invested several hundreds of thousands into the boat and was proud of the result.
During his ownership, the boat was made available to HSC on the River Thames for selected charter clients, and we had several successful Henley Regatta charters with a skipper, crew, and onboard chef.

The current meticulous owner is located on the south coast, where she enjoys cruising in Chichester Harbour. Now helming solo, she is looking to downsize to a dayboat. However, the Bates Starcrafts were designed for sea travel, and her sister ships, including New Venture, have crossed the Channel multiple times to participate in events in Belgium and France. Wherever your chosen cruising ground, Rajdhani is sure to turn heads and offer the owner very comfortable facilities and contemporary technical gear for extended periods spent onboard.

There is much to love about Rajdhani. One notable improvement made by the owner and shipwright Tim was the removal of varnish from the teak decks, as it was dangerous at sea. The overall effect is charming, showcasing the contrast between the oiled teak and the varnished wheelhouse.

Internally, there is a burgundy color scheme with inlaid woods, leather sofas, fabulous heads with showers, comfortable sleeping for four, and a spacious galley equipped with cooking facilities, a freezer, and a fridge. Air conditioning and heating come standard, as do Wi-Fi, iPad connections, and TV screens. Viewing is currently available afloat on the Birdham mooring, which may be accessible to a new owner. A full-length cover protects Rajdhani in all weather conditions.

Rajdhani is truly a Thames 'superyacht,' as once described by Boat International.

Please give Gillian a call at the office on 01491 578870 to arrange a viewing.