Raven (1964-1977) 19ft Custom Built Wooden Boat

The Century Raven is a robust and sophisticated utility runabout, defined by its high freeboard and distinctive lapstrake hull lines. Designed for stability and volume, the Raven offers a secure, deep-set cockpit that provides peace of mind in open water. Its blend of classic maritime textures and a spacious, functional layout makes it an enduring choice for those who appreciate a boat that is as practical as it is beautiful. 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 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 3-4 months depending on customization. General Characteristics: - Traditional lapstrake (clinker) hull for superior wave deflection - Expansive open cockpit with high interior sides - Walk-through windshield and versatile seating options - Powerful inboard or stern-drive (I/O) propulsion system Dimension: - Length Overall (LOA): 19 ft - Beam: Approx. 7 ft 6 in - Draft: Approx. 2 ft - Passenger Capacity: Typically 6-7 persons - Original Power: Inboard V8 (Chrysler or Gray Marine) Performance & Use: Engineered for stability and confident handling in choppy water, the Raven is the ideal classic for large lakes or coastal cruising. Its hull design prioritizes a smooth, dry ride, making it perfect for family outings, social entertaining, or as a stylish platform for waterfront exploration. Disclaimer: Raven (1964-1977) 19ft is a design by Century Boats. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by Century Boats. The Century Raven, produced between 1964 and 1977, was the brand's premier "big water" utility boat, designed to handle the challenging conditions of the Great Lakes and coastal bays. Born from the need for a seaworthy family cruiser, the Raven featured a sturdy lapstrake (clinker) hull that became its signature aesthetic and functional advantage. During its long production run, it served as a versatile bridge between the traditional wooden era and the modern fiberglass transition, consistently offering a drier, softer ride than its flat-sided counterparts. As one of the most reliable models in the "Thoroughbred Fleet," the Raven evolved from a classic mahogany lapstrake build in the mid-60s to a durable fiberglass construction by the 1970s. Despite the shift in materials, it never lost its reputation as a rugged, high-sided vessel capable of diverse activities, from serious fishing to long-distance commuting. Its longevity in the Century catalog is a testament to its timeless design and its status as a dependable workhorse for boaters who required performance in less-than-perfect water conditions.