CLASSIC LAUNCH REHIA GETS A BIRTHDAY – Report #1

Today we start a series of updates on the 1938 Colin Wild designed / built launch – REHIA.

A lot of woodys would say, and I’m one of them, that you can not spend too much money a Colin Wild craft , they are generally referred to as the Bentleys of the wooden boat scene. 

One of Wild’s craft that has always attracted admirers is the 36’ launch – REHIA.  After an extended period of ownership REHIA was acquired in late 2021 by the Telford family who have proved to be suitable custodians of her. Immediately after taking ownership they commissioned work that was deemed both needed – thru-hull updates and the addition of a holding tank etc and the nice to have – refurbished interior and topsides repaint (a JPPJ). 

Very earlier on owner Joe clicked that the secret to a harmonious relation with the team at {the} Slipway Milford was the supply of donuts.

Now after 2 1/2 years of ownership REHIA is hauled out to address a few small areas of cancer and to refresh her bling i.e. the cabin Uroxsys finish ( I struggle to use its new name  – Awlwood). 

So woodys we have started this rolling story to showcase the work underway at {the} Slipway Milford. As you will see what can appear to the eye as a wee area of rot can mushroom into a more substantial fix, but its only wood and everything is repairable 😉

Also interesting to see how the majority of the Uroxsys ’sort of’ just peeled off, I have experienced this before on some of the early day projects – not a product issue more I think applicator error.  It used to amaze me the number of boat owners that didn’t use the offical primer and thought they knew best. But there is always an upside – removal is a breeze 🙂

Unless stated all photos are via Jason Prew and myself.

ENJOY