Good news for the New Year: Miller-built Spindrift has new owners

Jo and John Furley write:

‘Responding to William Miller’s appeal for information, here are some recent photos of Spindrift.

‘We bought her in Guernsey in August, had her repainted and re-caulked, and we are trying to get her to Liverpool, where we’ll keep her in the Albert Dock once we’ve done some improvement work. We got as far as Penzance before the weather turned against us – the latest pictures are in the harbour in Penzance, waiting for a weather window (which is firmly closed at the moment!).

‘We’d be very happy to get in contact with the Millers to learn more about her history, and to update them.

‘Best regards,

‘Jo and John Furley’

This is great news. An earlier post mentioning this iconic vessel can be seen here. Spindrift is considered to be a rare surviving example of a zulu.

How Fogo Islanders secured the future of their traditional punt

‘As the winning teams take the podium, bowing their heads to receive a wooden medallion Aidan carved from Fogo Island wood in his shop, it seems there are multiple reasons for Fogo Islanders to cheer. After four years, the inn is turning a profit; cod, the very foundation of this place, appears to be recovering; Shorefast initiatives are building palpable optimism and have put Fogo Island in the international spotlight. And punt culture is safe home for another day.’

Smacks and sailing barges have benefited mightily from something similar – but there might be some useful ideas for admirers of some other types of traditional craft here…

Article:  The race that saved the Fogo Island punt.

Knud Knudsen, pioneer of Norwegian photography

Knud Knudsen was an early Norwegian photographer, and in the age of sail had spectacular scenery, boats and people for subjects. The best of his photos are beautifully composed, sharp and full of delicious detail and contrast.

These images are from the Wikimedia Commons.

My thanks to designer and sailmaker Michael Storer for tipping me off about Mr Knudsen. See Mik’s boat plans website and Facebook page.