We have looked after the ketch ‘Ursula’ for a number of years and undertaken some major repair works. She is an interesting historic vessel, build in 1953 in  Sakuth, Heiligenhafen, Germany.  The post below shows one particular interesting and challenging job, replacing the stem and apron, with bulwark repairs and replacement of any timbers found to require renewal.

Decay in the stem meant that replacement was necessary, with plank ends fixed to the stem structure, major strength is required, and to have hood end of a plank detach at sea would be bad. The photo below shows a top hull plank detached due to decay in the timber…

The old stem being removed…..

The decayed fastenings visible below…

The new apron was fitted inside the bow structure, onto which the plank fastenings fix, and then on the outside the stem is attached. Below our Fordson Major tractor crane is working fitting the sections….

The stem itself, laminated in Iroko is being test fitted to ensure a good fit…

And finally fitted….

Other work included replacing decayed bulwark stanchions and deck……

Work being carried out afloat while waiting for the slipway to become clear…..

Deck opened up and bulwark stanchions fitting.

With forward bulwarks replaced awaiting paint, and bulwark capping rails replaced….

New bulwark sections clearly visible above…

The above photos show the process of work replacing the stem structure, and all is looking well.