22ft "Shepherd 1947" Inspired Wooden Runabout | Custom Build Consultation Deposit

The 1947 Shepherd Runabout 22ft is a beautiful representation of the elegance and craftsmanship that defined classic Canadian wooden powerboats of the mid-20th century. Built during the golden era of recreational boating, Shepherd runabouts were admired for their sleek lines, powerful performance, and exceptional woodwork, combining both speed and leisure for a refined experience on the water. This 1947 Shepherd Runabout 22ft Custom Built Boat model captures the spirit of the original vessel with remarkable attention to detail, featuring a long and elegant mahogany hull, a beautifully crafted deck with classic striped wood planking, and a smooth curved bow complemented by chrome fittings and a vintage windshield. Inside the cockpit, the model showcases a thoughtfully arranged seating layout with cream-colored cushioned benches, creating a warm and inviting space that reflects the comfort of the original runabout. 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: - Extra-large lapstrake (clinker-built) hull for a smooth, heavy-water ride - Dual-cockpit or open-plan layout with luxury bench seating - Wraparound panoramic windshield with polished chrome supports - High-output V8 inboard propulsion system Dimension: - Length Overall (LOA): 22ft - Beam: Approx. 8ft - Draft: Approx. 2ft - Passenger Capacity: Typically 8-9 persons - Original Power: Dual-carburetor V8 or Twin-engine options Performance & Use: Designed for stability and substantial 'big water' cruising, the 1947 Shepherd excels on large inland lakes and coastal bays. Its heavy-displacement hull is engineered to sit deep in the water, providing a rock-solid platform that refuses to be tossed by passing wakes. It remains the ultimate choice for those who seek a 'bank-vault' build quality and a smooth, dignified ride through the most unpredictable conditions. Disclaimer: Our 1947 Shepherd Runabout 22ft is inspired by Shepherd Boat Company. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by Shepherd Boat Company. Contact us today! The 1947 Shepherd Runabout is a hallmark of post-war Canadian craftsmanship, originating from the Shepherd Boats family in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. In an era when many builders moved toward mass production, Shepherd remained dedicated to heavy, high-quality hull construction and exceptionally deep cockpits. The 1947 models were celebrated for their 'big water' capability, designed specifically to handle the unpredictable chops of the Great Lakes with grace and power. Celebrated for their luxurious 'V-drive' inboard configurations and robust hull thickness, Shepherd Runabouts were the preferred choice for boaters who prioritized a solid, safe feel underfoot. Unlike the lighter, more flighty racers of the time, the Shepherd's design emphasized a smooth, heavy-displacement ride that provided a level of confidence in rough water that few competitors could match. This legacy of over-engineered quality and timeless styling has made the 18-foot Shepherd one of the most respected names in the wooden boat community.