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Name: Caprella

Certificate number: 1995

Status:

Registered

Function:

Fighting Vessel

Sub Functional Area:

Pinnace

Type:

Naval Pinnace

Location:

Lancaster, Lancashire, England

Current use:

Laid up

  • Length Overall:

    18.30 metres (60.00 feet)

  • Current Tonnage:

    25.50

  • Draught:

    1.04 metres (3.40 feet)

  • Maximum Breadth:

    4.33 metres (14.20 feet)
Caprella - CAPRELLA under way - starboard side

Web address

Builder

History

CAPRELLA is one of the few remaining World War Two Navy Torpedo Recovery & Safety Boats (TRSBs) and is even rarer in that she maintains almost original lines.

After the war, in 1946, she was bought by Sir Harry Ricardo, Britain’s most eminent diesel engine designer from World War One to the 1950s. She was fitted at this time with a Dorman Ricardo 8 VRMS engine, which she retained until recently.

In 1956, she was sold to Mr Blackwell of Burnley, Lancashire and stayed in his ownership until his death. At that time, she was bought by Dave Whitewood who passed her on to the current owner. She has undergone a re-build, with new engines, decks, rear hold and roof, although the hull has survived in good condition.

These brief histories are compiled from details supplied by vessel owners and enthusiasts and from various reference works. National Historic Ships would be grateful for any corrections of facts or additional information for inclusion. Please contact ron.ellis@nationalhistoricships.org.uk

Subsequent developments

None notified, please let us know if you have any additional information.

Previous names

Bibliography