MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Luna Moon, currently berthed in the Mossel Bay harbour, was originally constructed in Holland by the famous Vige' Werf Shipyard in 1920, using the riveted steel method that was common in that period.
The vessel will be here for four months because it is undergoing a major refit. She is berthed at Quay 5 and you cannot miss her because of her tall masts.
"I encourage the sea cadets or any other interested organisation in Mossel Bay to join in and spend a day aboard Luna Moon, sailing in the bay. For more information, contact david@lunamoon.org," a spokesperson for the vessel said.
She was designed as a pilot schooner specifically to guide Dutch and French boats in the English Channel. She miraculously survived two World Wars, the 2nd World War due only to her owner's courage and foresight. She was purposely sunk in order to ensure that she did not fall into German hands.
In 1949, she was re-floated and refitted with an engine salvaged from the Nazi war effort.
In 1989, the internationally acclaimed naval architect, Oliver van Meer, redesigned her and after an extensive refit, she went on to fulfil the duty as a sail training vessel in the English Channel for a Belgium sailing school. During this period, she was often identified by her famous yellow gaff rig topsails which sported her sponsor's insignia, the internationally recognised Schweppes brand.
In 2005, Luna Moon, gilded in so much heritage was honoured as one of the true classic sailing vessels of our time and was added to the Chapman list of Great Sailing Ships of the World. She later went on to cater for holiday makers in the luxury charter industry, located in the Seychelles.
Towards the end of 2018, she was purchased and placed under the curatorship of a well-known South African entrepreneur and philanthropist who started the restoration process. Choosing a port for the restoration process was not easy. There were many factors to consider and discussions were held with ports in South Africa and abroad. Finally, it was decided that Mossel Bay would be the ideal location. What really attracted and drew Luna Moon to Mossel Bay was the assistance that we have received from National Ports Authority in Mossel Bay. Errol Baartman has been exceptionally helpful and encouraging.
The port captain, Vania Cloete, has been amazing and clearly runs an efficient and tight ship. Our thanks to everyone at the port for their assistance.
"Mossel Bay has a rich maritime history, going back hundreds of years. It only seems fitting the that Luna Moon would turn 100 years old in the bay," the spokesperson for the ship concluded.
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