Today the Norwegian-flagged, fully-rigged tall ship is not only used as a training ship for young Norwegians, she also undertakes cruises and races.
“It was good to welcome the Christian Radich back once again following their last visit in 2015,” said Frank Seinen, director of DSHI. “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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The most significant element of the five-week work was the removal of an existing galley and the installation of a new, commercial-grade facility capable of feeding the 80 plus crew and guests. As well as the installation work, the refit 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.
DSHI noted that maintaining a classic sailing ship is very different to works on a modern motor vessel. The presence of 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,” DSHI stated.
