Miss Supertest I & II Unlimited Hydroplane

The Miss Supertest I & II represent the early era of unlimited hydroplane racing, combining traditional wooden boatbuilding with advanced high-speed racing design. Featuring long, streamlined mahogany hulls and lightweight reinforcement, these hydroplanes were built to withstand the extreme forces generated at racing speeds.

Miss Supertest II, measuring 31 ft, featured an advanced three-point hydroplane configuration, allowing the hull to ride primarily on three small contact points for reduced water resistance and increased speed.

Key Features

• High-strength African Mahogany and marine plywood construction
• Traditional plank-on-frame wooden construction
• Three-point hydroplane configuration on Version II
• Single-seat racing cockpit
• Period-correct mechanical gauges and polished hardware
• Custom engine bay designed for large V-12 powerplants
• Fiberglass reinforcement and marine epoxy protection
• Multiple coats of marine spar varnish for a deep gloss finish

Specifications

• Designer: Jim Thompson / Les Staudacher
• Length Overall (LOA): 31 ft
• Beam: Approx. 10.5 ft
• Draft: Very shallow
• Seating: 1 pilot
• Hull: Wooden hydroplane
• Engine Configuration: V-12

Materials & Construction

Our workshop builds faithful recreations using premium Mahogany, Western Red Cedar, Teak, marine plywood, fiberglass cloth, and high-grade marine epoxy.

Each boat is handcrafted using traditional plank-on-frame techniques and finished with marine spar varnish. The interior combines modern marine-grade vinyl with period-inspired details and polished hardware.

Performance & Use

Originally developed for high-speed competition and record attempts, the Miss Supertest design delivers an authentic vintage hydroplane experience.

The single-seat cockpit and shallow-draft three-point hull configuration reflect the boat's original racing purpose. These recreations are suited for private collections, classic boat displays, and controlled high-speed demonstrations.

Custom Build

Typical build time is 4–6 months, depending on the selected model, structural requirements, engine configuration, and finish specifications.

Customization options include:

• Wood species and finishes
• Cockpit details
• Period-style gauges and hardware
• Interior upholstery
• Engine bay configuration
• Protective coatings

Design & Historical Background

The Miss Supertest legacy began in 1950, when the Thompson family acquired the former Miss Canada IV and renamed it Miss Supertest I. The boat was used in the development and testing of the powerful Rolls-Royce Griffon engine.

Miss Supertest II, launched in 1954 and associated with designer Les Staudacher, later became renowned for high-speed racing and set a world water speed record of 184.494 mph in 1957.

Our recreations are built from appropriate plans and historical references, with respect for the original designs and their racing heritage.

Disclaimer: This boat was designed by Jim Thompson. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by him or his company.