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Details
Function
Service Vessel
Subfunction
Launch
Location
Westray
Vessel type
Harbour Service
Current use
Private use
Available to hire
No
Available for excursions
No
Info required
Yes
Construction
Builder
Unknown
Built in
1912
Hull material
Wood
Rig
None
Number of decks
1
Number of masts
Propulsion
Motor
Number of engines
1
Primary engine type
Diesel
Boiler type
None
Boilermaker
None
Dimensions
Length: Overall
52.50
feet
(16.00
m)
Breadth: Beam
12.00
feet
(3.66
m)
Depth
5.00
feet
(1.52
m)
Tonnage: Gross
20.00
Air Draft
To be confirmed
History
NOUP HEAD was built as a Harbour Service Launch. Although the builder is not known, the build date is estimated as 1908. The hull is copper sheathed, double diagonal teak with a riveted galvanized plate casing above the solid teak deck. Originally steam but converted to diesel probably for WW2 when a forward helm was also fitted. Now has a Leyland 500 diesel engine.
The vessel was believed to have been sold off after the Second World War from Leith and came to Orkney in the late 1950s and was operated as a private ferry/ambulance boat for the north isles in Orkney till the mid 1960s and then privately operated sometimes taking coal from Westray to Papa Westray. She then fell into disuse and was about to be scrapped when acquired by her present owners in 1986.
Since then, a program of conservation has carried on over the years involving replacement of the full length keel, installation of a new engine, gearbox and wheelhouse. The helm has been moved aft and lowered to enable a new lower wheelhouse.
We are lacking information on this particular vessel. If you have any information on this vessel past or present, please contact us.
Key dates
-
1912
Date built, builder unknown
-
1960s
Came to Orkney Isles and operated as a private ferry/ambulance boat
-
1986/7
Acquired by present owners, engine, gearbox and wheelhouse installed
-
1989
Keel replaced
-
2008
Fitted out for sea and sailed to Westray
-
2013
About to start next stage of restoration/conversion
Own this vessel?
If you are the owner of this vessel and would like to provide more details or updated information, please contact info@nationalhistoricships.org.uk
