Rebecca > Dolphin – A Rolling Restoration
Hello woodys, if you aren’t a float today, todays story is a gem – its all about what makes the classic wooden boating movement so special – Caleb Bird contacted me to advise that he had taken over the restoration of the yacht Rebecca (now back to being called Dolphin) from the Tino Rawa Trust. The 24′ Dolphin was built in 1902 by the Ewen brothers (Frank,Ernie & John) of Whangarei. Constructed of 2 skin kauri she was once owned and restored by the late Peter Smith, who also restored the stunning 1938 Sam Ford launch – Menai.
Todays photo gallery shows us what Caleb has been up to for the last 2 years i.e. stripping her out and getting the interior back to an amazing look. Well done Caleb, we need more of you 🙂
The first batch shows her ‘as found’ and later photos the work-in-process.
waitematawoodys.com #1 for classic wooden boat stories, info, advice & news - updated daily 
Thankyou for posting the photos 😀 I can update with more as I progress with the outside
LikeLiked by 1 person
good effort Caleb, I know Dolphin appreciates your care.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dave I would be embarrassed to say how many copies I have of that book. I hoover them up in 2nd book shops, they make cool birthday presents to friends. The cover design is a piece of art in its own right. Alan H
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was just yesterday looking at Peter Smiths book Rebecca.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Allen Watson, I have several images of MANAKURA,. taken through the years
if you email me at kennetharicketts@gmail,com I’ll send you copies — KEN R
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi have purchased a ship builders called Manakura.that has been out of the water for 13yrs. I’m re building and refitting her but was wondering if you or anyone had any information about her she’s 15 mtrs long 4.2mtr wide. Single skin
Sent from my Galaxy
LikeLike