Boats for sale in West, Texas

Vintage one of a kind sidewheeler paddlewheeler houseboat house boat

$9,500

West, Texas

This mahogany sidewheeler was custom built by master carpenter Guenter and operated by Ron Inman in Kemah, Texas for millionaire C.H. Coffield between 1955 and 1958. It was Coast Guard documented as the original "Texas Queen" and was the flagship of the Texas Navy. It was mainly used for running between Kemah, Texas, New Orleans and Florida, but folklore has it docked at many other ports. It was donated to Baylor University in 1968. Baylor staff operated many excursions on this unique vessel on Lake Waco. In 1970 it purchased by Frank Lord, moved to Lake Whitney and moored at the B&B restaurant, where it was used as a tour boat. The boat originally had twin Cat diesels with pneumatic transmission. Unfortunately, in 1989 it was decommissioned and turned into a floating apartment. The engines, trans, paddlewheels and flywheels were removed. The rudders, steering, three fuel tanks, water and holding tanks are still intact. It has a rear stateroom, front saloon, lavatory with shower and electric head. Up top is the pilot house with steering and controls. The paddlewheels were made the centerpiece of the walkway to the boathouse. They will go with the boat. It has a ladder that goes in front for access to the upper deck. This boat will need total restoration and either new propulsion or reinstall the paddlewheels, possibly with hydraulic motors. It does have some rotten wood on the starboard side in the saloon. It did partially sink in its custom slip back in 2003 due to a faulty water heater. This boat is 48' long, 19'9" wide, and approximately 12' in height with the smoke stacks removed. For the wood boat enthusiast, this is a real find - a one and only piece of documented history. Due to the boat's past history with Baylor University, it would be an awesome Lake Brazos tailgating showpiece! It is located at Harbor Master Marina on Lake Whitney, Texas 76691. It has been removed from the water for inspection and transport. By the way, the slip is not for sale, just the boat and paddlewheels. The trailer is also available. Please call Gary with questions 254 744 3724.