LADY KARITA + KATOA AT NELSON MARINA

The refit / restoration of the 1938 Sam Ford built 43’ brigedecker Lady Karita would have to be a contender for the longest ‘rolling restoration’. I’m sure there are a lot of projects that have gone longer but most likely have been stalled for a number of years. Lady Karita on the other hand has been a labour of love for her Nelson based owner and the level of workmanship is wonderful.

The boat has made numerous appearances on WW – in fact too many to list the individual links – the below one will take you to a summary of all the stories. https://waitematawoodys.com/?s=lady+karita&submit=Search

The photos above were taken by woody Mark Dixon, owner of the two classic launches – Echo + Awarua. Yes you read correctly – two ! Mark has drunk the cool-aid. 

Mark was in Nelson over Labour weekend and as you do was walking the docks. 

20-11-2022 Update – photo below ex owner, from I suspect the camera of John Burland

Mark also spotted the launch Katoa that back in June 2021 we asked the question on WW of her status – and were advised by her new owners that she was scheduled for some serious TCL that winter – reviewing Marks photos below – she certainly got her share of the love – looking very impressive.