Classic British Design | Single Cummins 380HP | Hamilton Waterjet | Extensive 2026 Refit
There are few British motor launches that combine timeless styling, exhilarating performance and genuine practicality as successfully as the Swordsman 30. Inspired by the iconic Fairey Spearfish and beautifully built by Swordsman Marine, these distinctive launches have earned a loyal following amongst owners seeking classic elegance with the reliability and lower maintenance of modern GRP construction.
MATCHLESS is an outstanding example. Built in 2004 and powered by the sought-after single Cummins 380HP diesel driving a Hamilton waterjet, she delivers impressive performance, exceptional manoeuvrability and the confidence to explore shallow estuaries and anchorages beyond the reach of many conventional shaft-driven craft.
During 2026 she has undergone an extensive programme of professional refurbishment at Hamble Point Marina. Significant mechanical works have been carried out by authorised Cummins engineers, complemented by comprehensive cosmetic and interior improvements throughout the vessel. This investment builds upon a history of careful ownership, including replacement of the teak ring deck in 2017, and leaves MATCHLESS presented to an exceptional standard throughout. The result is a beautifully presented Swordsman 30 that offers her next owner the reassurance of substantial recent investment together with one of the most distinctive and capable launches in her class.
Privately owned, UK Part 1 Registered and, UK VAT paid, MATCHLESS is offered ready for immediate cruising.
Construction
GRP hull, deck and superstructure.
Teak-laid cockpit and bathing platform complemented by a professionally renewed teak ring deck in 2017 The Swordsman 30 combines the elegance of the classic Fairey motor launches with modern construction to produce a fast, capable and easily maintained coastal cruiser offering comfortable accommodation for extended weekends afloat.
Dimensions
Length Overall: 30ft (9.14m)
Beam: 10ft 4in (3.15m)
Draft: 1ft 10in (0.56m)
Machinery
Single Cummins “B” Diamond Series six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing approximately 380HP.
Engine instruments replaced during 2026 refit – approximately 1,024 hours (owner estimated).
Hamilton HJ274 waterjet propulsion.
Hamilton waterjet serviced May/June 2026. Cutless bearing inspected at the time of service and reported to be in serviceable working condition; date of last replacement is not known.
Waterjet anodes replaced approximately three years ago. The vessel has subsequently been predominantly dry-stacked and the anodes are reported to remain approximately 90% intact.
Cruising speed approximately 24 knots.
Maximum speed in excess of 30 knots.
The Hamilton waterjet provides exceptional manoeuvrability, excellent shallow-water capability and the reassurance of having no exposed propeller or rudder beneath the hull.
2026 Refit & Improvements
Mechanical works carried out during the 2026 refurbishment included extensive work by authorised Cummins engineers together with a service of the Hamilton HJ274 waterjet in May/June 2026, including inspection of the cutless bearing, which was found to be serviceable.
Mechanical works carried out by authorised Cummins engineers included installation of a new turbocharger, comprehensive engine refurbishment and refinishing, aftercooler service, replacement engine-to-shaft coupling, renewed exhaust system components, replacement cooling and fuel hoses, new Ritchie compass and engine instruments, new engine bay sound insulation, updated engine wiring where required, new engine bay lighting, renewed bilge pump installation and a full engine service. Together these works represent a significant investment in both reliability and presentation.
Alongside the mechanical refurbishment, the vessel has also benefited from extensive cosmetic improvements including professional GRP repairs, refurbishment of exterior timberwork, companionway joinery and helm wheel, replacement helm seats, new compass, renewed interior linings, replacement lighting and cockpit speakers, refurbished air scoops, teak treatment, comprehensive valeting and numerous detail improvements throughout the accommodation and cockpit.
The overall result is a Swordsman 30 presented to an exceptionally high standard both above and below decks.
Accommodation
Comfortable accommodation for up to four persons.Diesel-fired cabin heating with adjustable thermostat control.
Panasonic CQ-RDP113N AM/FM CD stereo system.
Forward saloon with convertible V-berth and dining area.
Separate aft double berth.
Galley to port.
Separate heads compartment to starboard with Jabsco marine WC, wash basin and shower.Pressurised hot and cold water system with Sure Marine stainless steel calorifier
Opening deck hatches provide excellent natural light and ventilation throughout the interior.
Galley
Deck Equipment
Teak-laid cockpit with generous U-shaped seating.
Twin rotating helm and navigator's seats
Convertible teak cockpit table.
Teak bathing platform.
Stainless steel bow roller.
Stainless steel pulpit and guardrails.
Stainless steel mooring cleats.
Anchor with chain and warp.
Full cockpit enclosure comprising Spray hood and Cockpit canopy.
Tonneau cover.
Overall winter cover.
Navigation & Electrical Systems
Raymarine E80 multifunction chartplotter.
Raymarine autopilot.
Raymarine speed / depth instrumentation.
Raymarine Ray240E DSC VHF radiotelephone with remote handset and external speaker.
Navigation lights.
Stereo system with cockpit and saloon speakers.
Plastimo clock.
Plastimo barometer.
Barometer.
Swordsman Marine – The Legend Continues
Founded to continue the traditions of classic British offshore motor yachts, Swordsman Marine drew upon the celebrated Fairey Spearfish, one of the most admired powerboat designs of the 1960s.
Designed by renowned naval architect Alan Burnard, the original Spearfish earned an enviable reputation for its sea-keeping, performance and elegant proportions, attracting owners including Sir Max Aitken, Tommy Sopwith and actress Deborah Kerr, while also featuring in the James Bond film From Russia with Love.
Today, the Swordsman Marine Swordsman 30 faithfully carries that heritage forward, combining the proven deep-V hull with modern construction, contemporary engineering and practical cruising accommodation to create one of Britain's most distinctive gentleman's motor yachts.
Nicolle Associates offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Shipping heights:Shipping total height 4.0m (Note not air draftShipping height with mast lowered 3.3m
Details
ManufacturerSwordsman
Model30
Year (Build / Refit)2004
Length8.1m
Total Power370 hp
Beam3.1m
Specifications
Dimensions
Length8.1m
Max Draft0.6m
Beam3.1m
Hull
MaterialGRP
Weight
Displacement3.6 t
Accommodation
Guest Cabins2
Bathrooms1
Propulsion
Engine 1
Engine MakeCummins
Engine Model"B" Diamond 6 Cylinder
Engine Hours1024
Engine TypeInboard
Drive TypeJet Drive
Fuel TypeDiesel
Power370 hp
Listing details on this page are provided by Nicolle Associates - Hamble Office as marketing material. Please contact the broker directly for full details.