Turning Vanessa – A Careful Dance With a Thames B-Rater
(When You Can’t Flip Her Over, You Pivot Instead)
Restoring a 1902 Thames B-Rater like Vanessa isn’t just about sanding and varnish. Sometimes it’s about problem-solving — like how to get to the underside of the hull without flipping the whole boat over.
At over 28 feet long, Vanessa isn’t exactly lightweight, and our boat shed has a low roof, which ruled out a full rollover.
So, how do you expose the bottom for calking and painting without tipping her on her head?
The Answer? Pulleys, Patience, and Precision
We rigged up a system using pullies, ropes, and some very cautious teamwork.
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One side was gently raised using a block and tackle.
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The other side was lowered by shifting weight and adjusting the cradle.
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The boat was tilted just enough to access the port side of the keel and hull base.
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We repeated the process for the opposite side later in the day.
It’s not glamorous, but it’s safe, controlled, and most importantly — it works.
Why Bother With the Bottom?
Vanessa was leaking before she came ashore, and the calking between her planks had degraded.
Cleaning, drying, and recalking the seams is critical before she returns to the Thames.
Once sealed, she’ll also get fresh antifouling paint on the base, which helps prevent weed build-up and slows future water ingress.
What’s Next?
Some ribs need replacing, and then it’s on to floorboards and fittings.
But for now, it’s another step forward in bringing a piece of Thames sailing history back to life.
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