Thanks to several generous donations we are now able to install the engine and propeller. The old ship has been hauled out and water-blasted, with a month’s free hardstand courtesy of the Waiheke Boating Club.
The interior framework has been prepared to take the engine, a new 30hp Beta, and it is due to be hoisted on board with a Hiab thanks to Paul Walden of Waiheke Island Construction Company.
We have a challenge – the old propeller and shaft from her days as a tow-boat were much too big for sailing, causing excessive drag. The new prop is a feathering one; when sailing the blades align themselves with the water flow, reducing the drag to near zero, so her sailing performance will be close to her original 1898 form.
The old stern tube is sound, so special fittings have to be made to adapt it to the new, smaller diameter shaft.
Then we can connect the diesel fuel tank that was donated, the exhaust system, the starter battery and controls, and a sound-proof box to house it.
Plenty to do, and fortunately we have Mike Delamore to take charge of the engineering side. With a lifetime of sailing experience, Mike has also skippered the big charter catamaran Island Passage, as well as several years driving the ferry Quickcat. In 2020 he sailed his yacht Cavatina single-handed around New Zealand to raise funds for the Kate.
We look forward to sea trials then, as Covid restrictions ease, taking out some youngsters for day-sails as a classic yacht, while we begin the long process of certification as a passenger vessel with Maritime New Zealand.