Tall Ship Christian Radich Completes Dry Dock Work at Damen Shiprepair Harlingen

The fully-rigged sailing ship Christian Radich has left Damen Shiprepair Harlingen (DSH) in the Netherlands after undergoing five weeks of repairs and maintenance.

The Norwegian-flagged, 63-meter, three-master underwent work that included high pressure jetting and cleaning of the exterior, while the rudder assembly including the shaft underwent maintenance works and the rudder trunk was replaced. Other work included the renewal of the top of a freshwater tank and the application of a fresh coating, which required the renewal of the wooden deck above it.

Launched in 1937 at the Framnæs Mech shipyard in Norway, the Christian Radich is very different to work on than modern motor vessel. According to Damen, her masts and rigging makes cranage much more difficult, while the use of fixed ballast – rocks in this case – also makes access for inspections highly problematic. Other aspects that require careful handling include the traditional woodwork used in the accommodation.

“This is very different to today’s commercial panelling and flooring and needs to be handled with great care and with high levels of craftsmanship. Any steel works also bring particular challenges,” Damen said in a press release. 

The most significant element of the five-week project was the removal of the existing galley and the installation of a new, commercial-grade facility that is capable of feeding the 80 plus crew and guests.

In addition to the installation work, the refit also involved the removal of all the concrete floors for the fitting of the new equipment including a ventilation system, and new walls, ceiling and flooring.

Today the Christian Radich still operates as a sail training ship in Norway, and she has received various tall ship racing awards.

“It was good to welcome the Christian Radich back once again following their last visit in 2015,” said Frank Seinen, Director of Damen Shiprepair Harlingen. “Not only do we have a good relationship with the vessel, but during previous visits to Harlingen the Christian Radich Foundation has formed a good relationship with our local Maritime Academy and that means that the crew can stay there in comfort while the works go on. As before, it has been a pleasure to be entrusted with the works on board such a beautiful and sensitive vessel.”

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