Astræa II For Sale [1950]

Astræa II, U-9 Astræa II For Sale

 

TO THOSE WHO WOULD WIN!

I OFFER FOR SALE, to competent and serious sportsmen only, my Gold Cup and Harmsworth Unlimited Class racing hydroplane ASTRÆA II. This boat is essentially similar in design and performance to, and is by the same designer as, Miss Canada IV, the famed Canadian Harmsworth challenger which has lately been proven the fastest boat in the world.

ASTRÆA II WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT IN THE UNITED STATES BY DOUGLAS VAN PATTEN, M. E., one of the foremost naval architects of the present day and America's leading designer of high speed boats. Of her, Mr. Van Patten says, " ASTRÆA II is my best (May 1950). Her specific resistance is lowest ... her turning and competitive abilities are unmatched. With her present power, her dispute will be with MISS CANADA IV. With the greatest power for which she is designed, I should have the greatest expectations for her."

IN 1949, HER MAIDEN YEAR, ASTRÆA II won third place in the Silver Cup, at Detroit, which is more than any other brand new Gold Cup or Harmsworth boat succeeded in doing during the entire racing season. 1949 was a season of "de-bugging" of minor engine and propeller ills, and the job has been thoroughly done.

MY REASONS for selling are personal: I just do not have the necessary time to devote to the sport. And let me warn you, this greatest of present-day sports will take much of your time during the season!

ASTRÆA II is 33' long, 9' 4½" beam, weighs slightly under 5500 pounds with Packard W-14 PT marine engine. This engine pulls approximately 1600 BHP, is stripped for racing, but is not "suped." The gearbox is completely reliable, has unusual efficiency, and is designed for 3300 BHP. Provisions are made for powering the boat with other engines, including the 1710 and 3420 Allisons, the Rolls-Royce (and Packard) Merlins, the Rolls-Royce Griffon, etc. A complete spare Packard W-14 engine, numerous spare parts, and an elaborate tool set are included. A specially designed and beautifully balanced trailer (which can be towed with a passenger car) goes with the boat.

ASTRÆA II is in better than new condition and is ready to leave on short notice. She is very much ready to race!

(Reprinted from Yachting, June 1950)

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