Skip to product information
1 of 4

Captain Heritage

Thompson Torpedo Runabout 14ft Custom Built Wooden Boat

Thompson Torpedo Runabout 14ft Custom Built Wooden Boat

Regular price $17,502.00 USD
Regular price $17,502.00 USD Sale price $17,502.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.
The Thompson Torpedo is a striking and aggressive racing vessel, instantly recognizable by its dramatic tapering stern, low profile, and polished decks. Designed with a narrow, cockpit-forward layout and a performance-oriented hull, the Torpedo offers an exhilarating experience for high-speed runs or vintage racing exhibitions. Its aesthetic is one of raw speed-emphasizing aerodynamic curves, minimalist hardware, and a 'cockpit-style' seating arrangement that feels more like a vintage aircraft than a traditional boat. Our workshop builds faithful recreations using premium marine Mahogany, Western Red Cedar, and Teak-reinforced with fiberglass cloth and sealed with high-grade marine epoxy. Each boat is handcrafted using authentic lapstrake (clinker) methods, with each plank meticulously fitted and finished with multiple coats of marine spar varnish to achieve deep gloss and long-lasting protection. The interior is updated with modern marine-grade vinyls while retaining the period-correct aesthetic and polished hardware. Typical build time ranges from 4-6 months depending on customization. General Characteristics: - High-speed racing lapstrake hull with signature 'Torpedo' tapering stern - Compact, dual-cockpit or single-cockpit layout for weight distribution - Low-profile raked windshield for reduced wind resistance - Optimized for high-performance outboard racing motors Dimension: - Length Overall (LOA): 14ft - Beam: Approx. 4.8ft - Draft: Approx. 8-10 inches - Passenger Capacity: Typically 2-3 persons - Original Power: High-output outboard motors (25-50hp vintage rating) Performance & Use: Designed for adrenaline and precision handling, the Thompson Torpedo excels on calm inland lakes and protected river reaches. Its hull is engineered to pop onto a plane almost instantly and track with surgical accuracy at high speeds, offering a thrilling, wind-in-your-face experience. It remains the ultimate choice for the collector who prizes performance and the iconic 'teardrop' silhouette of mid-century American racing history. Disclaimer: Our Thompson Torpedo Runabout 14ft is inspired by Thompson Brothers Boat Manufacturing Company. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by Thompson Brothers Boat Manufacturing Company. The Thompson Torpedo is the definitive icon of pre-war speed and streamlining, born from the innovative spirit of the Thompson Bros. Boat Mfg. Co. during the late 1930s and 40s. While other models focused on utility, the Torpedo was engineered for pure performance, featuring the company's famous 'strip-built' or lapstrake techniques adapted for a sleek, racing profile. Its namesake 'Torpedo' stern and radical tumblehome design were inspired by the burgeoning aero-nautical trends of the era, making it one of the fastest and most stylish outboard racers of its generation. Celebrated for its agility and 'planing' ability, the Thompson Torpedo was the preferred choice for thrill-seekers and competitive racers who valued velocity and sharp handling. Unlike the heavier cruisers of the time, the Torpedo's lightweight but rigid construction allowed it to skim across the water's surface with minimal drag, providing a visceral connection to the lake that few other wooden boats could offer. This legacy of speed and avant-garde design has made the Torpedo one of the most sought-after and high-octane names in the world of antique outboard boating.
Contact us! View full details

Collapsible content

What makes our wooden boats so unique and special? 

Hundreds of hours go into the construction of our boats, as perfection is the only options.

- ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: We use only certified top-grade, hand-selected wood such as Canadian red cedar, mahogany, rosewood, teak and more. 

- THE ART OF CRAFTSMANSHIP: Merging centuries-old customs with technological innovation, we bring you boats that excel in every categories. 

- IN-HOUSE QUALITY CONTROL: Each of our wooden boats goes through a demand quality control process including in water testing before leaving the workshop.

 

About Woodenboat USA™

The story of time-honored traditions of boat building. 

More than just watercraft, our wooden boats, kayaks and canoes represent connections to a legacy of craftsmanship and old world techniques. Woodenboat USA is invested in the type of construction that recalls generations of boat making. Over thirty years in business, our commitment has always been and will continue to be, to excellence, to tradition and to creating products that you can enjoy both for their performance and incredible beauty.

Inspired by history, the names of our watercraft are derived from the northern waterways where natives and settlers have used them for centuries. Merging centuries-old customs with improvements in technology, we bring you boats that excel in every category.

Beginning with pliable, high quality Canadian cedar and hardwood, our craftsmen hand join each individual strip. Hundreds of hours go into the construction of our boats, as perfection is the only option. Once built, the piece is encapsulated in fiberglass epoxy resin adding an extra layer of durability and strength. At last, the water craft is ready for its nautical debut.

FAQ's

List the details of your shipping policy.

What are your canoes and kayaks made of?

Our canoes and kayaks are made of the highest quality western red cedar and some hardwoods. The larger boats are made of western red cedar, pine, and hardwoods such as oak, mahogany, teak, and some locally available woods. Our wooden watercraft are then coated both inside and out in an incredibly durable American made fiberglass and epoxy resin.

You mentioned that you use fiberglass in your boats, so what is the difference between your boats and fiberglass boats?

We only use 1 or 2 clear thin layers of fiberglass coating on top of the wood for reinforcement and added integrity. You never see any fiberglass, only beautiful, hand-joined cedar and hardwoods.

What is a typical cedar strip canoe or kayak weight?

A 15’ kayak weighs approximately 45lbs, making it very easy for one person to carry. A 16’ canoe weighs about 48lbs.

What type of boats do you build?

Our wooden strip canoes and kayaks are hugely popular for touring and recreational purposes. We also build wooden dinghies, wooden sail boats, classic wooden runabouts, and speedboats. Additionally, we can custom-build any design with which you supply us.

What methods do you use to build the boats?

Focused on integrating traditional technique with modern design, all boats are built by hand, typically taking hundreds of man hours to create.

How do I order?

Please contact our dealers or call (877) 88 Boats for more information.

How long does an order take?

Boats that we have in stock can be shipped to you within a week). New or custom products generally take 2-3 months as everything we sell is 100% hand crafted.

How do you ship it?

We can ship via trucking company very safely. We also insure all freight so in the very rare case that a shipment is damaged during transit, we will take care of the details and immediately replace the item for you. We also have distributors all over the world, so please contact us to find out more information.

How do I become a distributor of your products?

We welcome qualified dealers and distributors all over the world. Please contact us today at (877) 88 Boats or email us at info@woodenboatusa.com for more information.

What kind of warranty can I expect?

For all products we offer a 6 month limited warranty on materials and craftsmanship.

Guidelines for use

CARE:

With a little bit of care and maintenance, your beautiful canoe can last for generations. While our products are certainly durable and solid, they still require the right type of care and handling to ensure that they perform optimally.

  • It is recommended that you rinse your canoe off with fresh clean water after every use.
  • Upon returning from the trip, allow your canoe to air-dry in the shade.

STORAGE:

Besides taking care of your canoe, storage also plays an essential role in maintaining your canoe’s appearance and beauty.

  • Always store your wooden canoe in shade.
  • Turn it upside down on the support thereby keeping it off the ground.
  • Hanging your boat from the rafters in your garage or shop would be ideal storage.

REPAIR:

Minor scratches can be repaired by marine spar vanish or some brand of automobile wax. Smooth the damaged area with sand paper, wipe clean, then apply marine spar vanish.

SAFETY:

Wooden Boat USA strongly recommends that a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is worn whenever paddling.

Product video availabe here!