1972 - 1984 | Overhaul

NOTE: Some of this is identical to what is written on Wikipedia, as both were written by the author of this website, stardust5980 (aka celesteshipping5980). 

NOTE TWO: Huge thanks to Kenneth Kennedy and Kerry Kennedy for providing Kenneth's book 'ALL AT SEA' which provides almost all of the information on this page.

Overhaul

- Soon after their escapades at Milford Haven, the fishing trips had restarted, as had the ongoing repairs and upgrades to the vessel. The generator was replaced by a bigger model, this time stored in the hold to limit noise in the living spaces. The bearing which had overheated was also replaced and had an oil bath constructed around it. Through regular checks, it was found that the mainmast was heavily rotted at deck and keel level, and thus was removed. Kenneth purchased a Scots fir and used it to replace the lower half of the mast, connecting it to the upper half via a carved out joint, three pins, and a rope. While the mast was off the ship Kenneth took the opportunity to install a new topmast made from a telephone pole. The whole process of replacing the mast took about a month, including the installation of new ropes, stays, and pulleys. For some time they allowed enthusiasts on fishing trips to use the sails themselves, but without insurance it was risky business. Kenneth discounted the idea entirely after Alec had been hit by a swinging boom and broke two ribs, sending him to hospital for three weeks.[1]`

In early January 1978, another call from BBC producers was received, asking if they were available for the filming of another Onedin Line series. Kenneth was more hesitant to undertake the task a second time, but after some debate the decision was made to head to Milford Haven once more. As with last time, preparations would have to be made, though fortunately she was definitely in much better shape for such a voyage this time. In the summer between this voyage and the last to Milford Haven, Kenneth had fitted an engine to the ship's port side propellor, something that had been on the ship since it was built. With this he hoped to cut down the journey time with more speed. Getting enough hcrew was also a difficulty, due to several people dropping out last minute or being unable to get time off for the whole ordeal. In the end Kenneth made the decision to sail with only two crew, himself and Alec.They also brought Alec's dog, Etive, along with them. This low amount of crew forced them to make a lot of changes to how things were ran as opposed to the last trip.[1]

References

1.  Kennedy, Kenneth M. (1985). All At Sea. Retrieved 2023-12-16.