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Reviving a Legend: The Story of Saucy Jane

The story of Saucy Jane is a tale of heritage and passion. Jim Lapsley has brought this iconic jetboat back to life, honoring its place in New Zealand’s maritime history. Saucy Jane was initially designed by Bill Hamilton, a pioneer in jet propulsion technology. This humble 13-foot dinghy made history in 1954 by being one of the first jetboats to navigate upriver, setting the standard for watercraft worldwide.

Jim’s love for boating began at a young age, rooted in memories of his childhood at Lake Manapouri, where he marveled at the joys of being on the water. Over the years, he transformed his passion into craftsmanship, culminating in the ambitious project to recreate Saucy Jane.

The Journey of Reconstruction

Jim started building his replica in 2017, using only three photographs and a few measurements obtained from the original. He worked with naval architect Dan Leech to create a design and spent six years meticulously constructing the boat in his shed. Surprisingly, he found the biggest challenge was replicating Saucy Jane’s jet unit, the heart of its unique design.

“Going through the original parts was a labor of love,” Jim shared. He collaborated with local engineers and suppliers to get everything just right. All the components were carefully crafted, from the frame to the jet unit, with special attention to detail. The engine was reconstructed to resemble the original Ford E93A, which offered just over 30hp back in the day.

A Community Treasure

Jim’s dedication to authenticity extended to the trailer, which he restored to its former glory, even finding an original bolt from Saucy Jane to include on the new unit. The boat’s cockpit features accurate replicas of the original controls, and each detail, including the color and upholstery, was chosen to match the history closely.

Saucy Jane has found a new life on the water, participating in events like Jetboating New Zealand’s mid-winter run, allowing both fans and newcomers to appreciate its legacy. “Driving it is a joy,” Jim says, “Even if the speed isn’t mind-blowing, the handling is thrilling.”

The Legacy Continues

Jim’s journey goes beyond just this boat; it reflects a love for boating that he’s eager to pass to future generations. He hopes Saucy Jane will one day be housed in a museum where it can inspire others, just as it inspired him.

Social media reactions to his work have been overwhelmingly positive, with many boat enthusiasts and curious onlookers marveling at the replica. They often mistake it for the original, which speaks to Jim’s incredible craftsmanship.

Jim acknowledges that none of this would have been possible without the support of his family, especially his wife, Noeleen. Together, they share the dream of passing on their love for water to their grandchildren.

As this project highlights, traditional skills in craftsmanship and familial bonds are timeless, showing how passion for the past can beautifully shape the future. The legacy of Saucy Jane now lives on in both Jim’s work and in the hearts of those who admire it, reminding us of the enduring power of innovation and nostalgia.

To learn more about the groundbreaking innovations in jet propulsion that Bill Hamilton pioneered, check out resources like Hamilton Jet.

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