A handcrafted modern wooden runabout
Building Temptress
I’m documenting the entire build of Temptress as a YouTube series — from the first piece of timber to launch day.
This will be a one-off boat. Built by hand, here in the UK.
THE STORY
Temptress is part of a shift in my work.
For years, I’ve restored wooden boats — bringing old hulls back to life. But this build is different. It’s about creating something new. Something that reflects the very best of what modern wooden boatbuilding can be.
This is the first boat where I feel everything comes together properly — design, materials, process, and finish.
And I’ve chosen to build it in public.
Every stage is being documented and shared, with thousands of people already following along as it takes shape.
THE BOAT
Temptress is a 7.3m modern wooden runabout, designed as both a luxury yacht tender and a standalone statement piece.
She’s powered by an Ilmor 5.3L GDI engine and built using cold-moulded construction — combining traditional materials with modern techniques to create a strong, stable, low-maintenance hull.
Inside, the structure is mahogany framed with larch stringers, skinned in yellow cedar and mahogany. The result is a hull that is as refined beneath the surface as it is above it.
This particular build will be finished with custom hardware made specifically for this boat.
Although plans are available for others to build their own, this will likely be the only one I build myself.
A RARE OPPORTUNITY
Temptress is being built for sale. Not as a production boat, and not as a repeatable model — but as a single, carefully executed build.
Because the process is being shared publicly, the finished boat will carry a story with it. One that’s been followed by thousands of people from the very beginning. I expect she’ll suit someone who values that.
Whether as part of a collection, a tender to a larger yacht, or something to keep waterside — this is a boat that’s meant to be both used and appreciated.
If you’re interested, I’d prefer to discuss things directly.
Follow and Support
Your support makes a real difference!
Follow The Build
The entire build is being documented on YouTube.
If you’d like to see how Temptress is coming together — from the structure through to the final finish — you can follow along here:
Support The Project
This build is being largely self-funded through the video series.
If you’d like to support the project — and help keep this kind of boatbuilding going — you can do that here:.
Dan Lee Boatbuilding focuses on modern wooden boats — combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design and construction methods.
Each build is approached individually, with an emphasis on quality, longevity, and detail.
Temptress represents the direction I’m now pushing the business in — towards new builds that stand on their own.
Dan Lee
Temptress is a one-off build, and enquiries are open.
If you’d like to discuss ownership, you can contact me directly: