Similar to Commuters, Launches were originally built for wealthy businessmen who lived on Long Island and commuted to Manhattan. They were often referred to as “limousines of the sea,” designed to meet the needs of privileged Americans who needed transportation from their homes along the rivers and coasts to their offices in the city. These boats were also used to go to the theatre in the evenings, enjoy afternoon cruises or attend yachting regattas. Some of the most elite socialites of the time, including the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Fords and Kennedys, were Launch or Commuter owners.

Hull Construction: mahogany planks added over cedar planks.

Propulsion: Elco 40hp 96V DC electric motor.  Pulls about 40 amps at 5 knots allowing for 3 hours on Eight 8D gel batteries. Kohler 6kw diesel genset allows for 150kn range at 5kn (15 gal at .5 gal/hr and 5kn)

Update by current owner, 5-14-25: I was told originally owned by Atwater Kent who brought household radios to the masses and then invented the automobile timing distributor, but a recent owner did quite a bit of research and couldn't find any history of he owning any boat.  During COVID, she was lovingly restored by Bob Schumacher of Burlington VT, including addition of second layer on the hull. He sold her to Doug Williamson of Essex CT who soon after had a medical event and was not able to keep her (REDACT).  I purchased Vagabond in April of 2024.  Our first season (2024) was 700 nm from Mystic CT to Montreal, Ottawa and then stored for winter in Clayton NY for next year.