The Tall Ship - Week One - We are underway!

The first section of maintenance work on the Tall Ship Glenlee is well underway, marking a significant milestone in her ongoing preservation. As detailed in The Tall Ship's announcement, Marine Projects Scotland Ltd has been tasked with this crucial phase, focusing on structural repairs and steel-work renewal.

Uncovering the Challenges

Before restoration could begin, the team conducted thorough assessments of Glenlee’s condition, identifying areas requiring urgent attention.

The Process So Far

Cargo Hold Preparations

The cargo hold was the first area to undergo major work. After lifting the deck planks, the team removed loose ballast, with each block weighing an impressive 60kg. Following this, the gabions, which weighed approximately 500kg each, were carefully extracted.

Water Ballast Tank Removal

A key part of this phase involved dismantling the starboard water ballast tank to gain access to the structure below. This process was carried out in sections, with the base of the tank eventually removed from the ship. The port water ballast tank will be craned out intact so it can be reinstated after the work is completed.

Structural Steel-work Repairs

The restoration team focused on remedial steel-work on the port side vertical floor, where corroded flanges of riveted angle bars were removed and replaced with new flat bars to restore strength and integrity. Thermal checking was also conducted during welding to monitor heat input and ensure the work adhered to high standards.

Looking Ahead

This first phase marks an important step in Glenlee’s long-term conservation. By addressing these structural concerns now, we ensure that this historic vessel remains a vital part of Glasgow’s maritime heritage for future generations. Stay tuned for further updates as work progresses!