THE REVAMP OF REHIA

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THE REVAMP OF REHIA

Early last month we ran two stories on the 1938 Colin Wild built launch – REHIA and her upcoming refit at {the} Slipway Milford yard. Links to those stories below. 1st Report  https://waitematawoodys.com/2024/05/03/classic-launch-rehia-gets-a-birthday/

2nd Report https://waitematawoodys.com/2024/05/10/rehia-2024-refit-report-2/

Jump forward to last Saturday morning and she is sliding down the rails looking rather grand. It is always a big ask ($$) to bring these craft back to better than as launch presentation. But the feel good factor when you walk down the dock or row away from her in a bay is priceless.

There is a saying that I believe originated from Frances Herreshoff that goes like this “if as you walk away or row away from your boat, you do not look back at her, you own the wrong boat”

Over the last 2 years her owners have had one major focus – to retaining/ restore all her classic characteristics and charm. Well done to the Telford family and the team at the yard.

A few minutes before REHIA was launched my RAINDANCE also splashed after a brief haul-out for a face wash and bottom shave. Sitting for 2 months on her marina and with the engine not working, RD had a very impressive beard + a plastic bag around the prop 😦

(photos ex Jason Prew, Joe Telford, Alan H)

UPDATE 20-06-2024 LOTS OF WORKSHOP / HANDS ON PHOTOS HERE https://www.facebook.com/share/p/MtAdzgzeQt1oSUgG/

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3 thoughts on “THE REVAMP OF REHIA”

  1. It is so wonderful & unbelievable, that the REHIA we see here today, is absolutely identical the REHIA that Colin Wild built in 1938 exactly, except for minor & essential changes to the motion & throttle controls necessary with the installation of her first, (& perhaps only), diesel engine, around the later 1970s or early 80s, as her original Buda 6 cyl., flat head petrol engine, had a Bendix System controlled, manual gearbox, with a twin little lever consol mounted unit, with little throttle & reverse levers about 5 inches high. She even appears to me, through the window in one image, that she still has her original bridgedeck light fitting.

    I can attest to all of this because I was onboard a lot over the xmas of 1947 when owned by Bill & Phil Ryan. Being friends with their sons Bob and Jeff. My family cruised with them, on our launch JULIANA.

    It would seem her interior detail is all still the same today, even to the match lining on the cabin top roof, in the bridgedeck & of course the light fitting.

    Wonderful unforgettable childhood memories & a fabulous boat. KEN R (edited by Alan H)

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