K1 Britannia is now being stripped and prepared for her refit at Venture Quays in East Cowes. Upon completion in 15 months’ time she will be launched with an overall length of 52m and a staggeringly tall 55m mast - the tallest wooden mast in the world! K1 is one of the first projects off of the starting blocks on the Kickstarter funding site when it goes live in the UK on October 31. With each pledge to support the Britannia project supporters will receive a wonderful reward that's been uniquely designed and crafted by the rebuild team and/or the opportunity to be part of her new life when she is completed.
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Rewards range from original sketches and blueprints to rigging blocks, crew clothing, beautiful landing mats and oil paintings by world renowned marine artists; everything is custom made, and there is something for everyone. The limited edition rewards at the higher end include experiences aboard the finished Britannia on sailing days during her first regattas in Monaco, Cannes, the UK and Caribbean, where she will race for charity, and the opportunity to dine aboard Britannia with her Captain and Officers.
The spirit of this project is all about "Gifting Britannia to the People"; it is a project that reclaims a piece of maritime history and elevates charitable giving globally. With Kickstarter’s help, the design and engineering of Britannia will be completed to the standard and specification that made her one of the most incredible vessels in the world.
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In order to complete the design of the interior, special materials will need to be acquired, a full laser scan of the interior and exterior of the hull must be rendered and skilled craftsman will dedicate many hours of their time creating each individual piece on board.
The only exact replica of the legendary Britannia was commissioned in 1994 (after due approval by Her Majesty the Queen). She was constructed in Russia, moving more recently to Norway. Britannia’s new home is Cowes, Isle of Wight where she will be based for 2012. The reconstruction team will manage the final rebuild to ensure she is restored to her namesake’s former quality and elegance. Once restoration is complete she will receive an official christening and will then be used for charitable pursuits in a bid to introduce as many deserving people as possible to this unique yacht’s noble heritage.
G New
25 October 2012 20:53