Boatbuilders

[wrr]

I am considering a restoration project, nice boat but needs new decks, frames etc.. Apart from comments on Spring fever, any views on boatyards, shipwrights and builders on the South Coast from Poole to Chichester? My previous experience was with Coombes of Bosham, whose enforced closure was a loss and a disgraceful act by the local authority. Views based on experience, including comments on quality, keeping to schedules and costs, would be much appreciated.

 

[Mirelle]

Don't know about South Coast, I am afraid, but on the east coast I have no hesitation in recommending Robertsons in Woodbridge for a project of that type.

 

[Guest]

Hmmm, I spoke to the Local Authority, who were extremely keen to keep Combes going. My guess is that it will end up as a housing development, which apparently nobody wanted. Interesting isn't it. But Nick Gates is still around and doing good work, his mobile is 07957 422941

 

[Guest]

Tell us more about the boat and what you are looking for.

"El manana es nuestro, companero..."

 

[wrr]

As the boat is on the market still it would be unethical and unfair to give details. Basically, the usual problems; frames cracked at the inflection from concave to convex curvature, decks rotten due to leaks etc.. Provocative thought, the functions of stanchions on wooden boats are twofold:; to rot the decks and to catch the crew at the back of the knees and help tip them overboard.

 

[Guest]

I completely agree with your thought on stanchions - unless a handrail is secure and will catch you at waist height then it is simply a trip hazard! The natural thing to do if no stanchions are fitted is to hold the handrail attached to the coachroof (which is what you should be doing in the first place) Why does the new IWB safety scheme insist that all new hire boats should be fitted with them?


PZ

 

[Mirelle]

Stanchions

Agree. I have just abolished mine; they were at "speed the passing guest" height and always worked loose (yes, they were nicely through bolted into the covering board, and pain it was to get the nuts and washers on and hardened up!)