LATEST ‘Voyage’ For Old Clyde Passenger Ferry On Road To Being Shipshape Again
AN ambitious project to restore a historic Clyde passenger vessel has taken a big step forward with the successful return of the craft to Greenock.
Campaigners working to restore The Second Snark to her former glory arranged for the boat to be transported to the Dales Marine facility at Garvel.
‘The Snark’, which was built by William Denny of Dumbarton and completed in 1938, has been in outdoor storage at Fairlie Marina since mid-2018 when she was rescued from the cutter’s torch by Hamish Munro, her former owner and operator.
The Second Snark Preservation Society took ownership of the ferry in October and it quickly became apparent that the work required to restore her to operational condition could not be undertaken at this Fairlie so relocating her to somewhere more suitable became a priority.
Dales Marine is accommodating The Second Snark whilst fund-raising and design work take place. Then, over several phases, the company will undertake the work required for the vessel to take to the water once again.
Michael Milne, managing director of Dales Marine, said: “Dales Marine Services (Greenock) are delighted to be working with the trustees of The Second Snark and helping to give this historic vessel a second chance.”
Transportation of the vessel was by Dumbarton-based haulage specialists, Galt Transport. A spokesman said: “We are delighted to be working with the Second Snark Preservation Society to provide the overland transport for MV Second Snark. As an important piece of local heritage we can’t wait to see her progress and ultimately set sail on the Clyde again.
“We commend everyone who has been involved in her restoration so far, for their commitment and motivation in bringing this historical vessel back to life.”
Hamish Munro said: “This is a big step forward for the project. For a vessel built nine years before Waverley and only five years after Queen Mary, she is most definitely a candidate very worthy of saving and active preservation.”
Gavin Stewart, chairman of The Second Snark Preservation Society, said: “Whilst there is obviously still a fair way to go with the project, this move represents the first and most important step to achieving our goal of seeing The Snark back where she belongs – sailing on the Firth of Clyde!”
