1959 Albatross Continental “Godiva”
Location: Dartmouth, UK

Overview

A truly rare opportunity to acquire Godiva, an exquisite 1959 Albatross Continental – Hull No. 1134 – and arguably one of the finest surviving examples of this iconic British marque. This ultra-rare four-seat model is powered by the highly sought-after Coventry Climax FWE engine and has undergone a meticulous, no-expense-spared restoration to concours standard.

Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium and immaculately presented, Godiva perfectly blends mid-century elegance with purposeful performance. Ideal for collectors, show display, or spirited coastal use, she is available for immediate sale and viewings are highly recommended.

Historical Significance

Albatross boats were born from the vision of aeronautical engineer Archie Peace and became icons of 1950s and ’60s luxury boating – famously favoured by the likes of Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly, and Prince Rainier. The Coventry Climax-powered four-seater Continental is an exceptionally rare configuration, making Godiva a highly collectible piece of British marine history.

Specifications

• Builder: Albatross Marine, St. Olaves, Norfolk

• Designer: Archie Peace

• Length Overall: 15'7" (4.75m)

• Beam: 5'0" (1.52m)

• Draft: 0.31m

• Hull Type: Deep V planing

• Construction: Flush-riveted Duralumin, cream-painted

• Displacement: Lightweight aluminium

Engine & Performance

• Make: Coventry Climax FWE

• Builder: Andrew Tart Engineering

• Year: 1959

• Fuel: Petrol

• Power: 45 HP

• Drive Type: Direct drive with 2-blade propeller

• Cooling System: Freshwater cooled

• Top Speed: Approx. 40 MPH

• Range: Approx. 150 miles

• Running Hours: 2 (freshwater only)

• Last Service: 2023

Features & Equipment

• Custom wiring loom with safety kill switch

• Full suite of period-correct instruments: rev counter, oil/temp gauges, fuel gauge, ammeter

• Removable steering wheel for added security

• Original “frog” navigation light and pennant mast

• Tailored tonneau covers (new)

• Cream and blue upholstered seating with new deck covering

• Integrated fire extinguisher and electric bilge pump

• Remote battery isolator

• 1 x 53-litre fuel tank

• 1 x New battery (2023, alternator charged)

• Supplied with a new, fully galvanised Albatross-designed road trailer (tows beautifully)

Deck & Safety Gear

• Pushpit and pulpit

• 2 x Davits

• 6 x Fenders

• 2 x Mooring warps

• Electric bilge pump

• Fire extinguisher

Additional Information

• Viewing by appointment – Dartmouth, Devon

• Transport and delivery can be arranged