Yavari (1861 Gunboat)
Location: Lake Titicaca, Peru
Price: Negotiable. The owners are not looking for a hefty price tag, just a modest return on their personal investments and a commitment to ensuring the vessel remains a treasured part of Lake Titicaca's history.
www.nationalhistoricships.org.uk/register/2302/yavari
Early History:
A long and unusual story of a ship that started on the River Thames in London and ended on Lake Titicaca in Peru. The vessel Yavari was commissioned by the Peruvian Government to the James Watt Foundry who subcontracted Thames Ironworks of Blackwall to build the hull. The Yavari, along with her sister ship Yapura, was commissioned as a gunboat.
When fully built, the vessel was dismantled, and the parts were packed in kit form and shipped to Peru in 1862, aboard the steamer Mayola. In 1863, a team of engineers and naval personnel traveled to Lake Titicaca to prepare for the arrival and assembly of the vessel.
Upon arrival in Peru, these parts faced the daunting task of being transported over the Andes mountains to Lake Titicaca, which stands at an altitude of 12,500 feet. This immense logistical challenge was accomplished using mule trains.
It wasn't until 1870 that the Yavari was finally launched, and she undertook her maiden voyage in 1871. In 1875, ownership of the Yavari and Yapura was transferred from the Navy to private interests, and the ships continued to serve the lake region, facilitating transportation and commerce until the 1950s.
Restoration and Recent History:
Meriel Larken acquired the Yavari in 1982. Her discovery of the ship in a state of disrepair during a trip to Lake Titicaca inspired her to embark on a mission to restore and preserve this unique piece of maritime history. A survey conducted in 1983 found that the combination of high altitude and fresh water had maintained the Yavari's iron hull in excellent condition, deeming the vessel worthy of restoration.
Larken's dedication to the establishment of the Yavari Project, led to significant restoration success and by 1998 the vessel officially opened as a state museum. In 2015, the Yavari underwent a refit to comply with modern safety standards, ensuring the vessel remains a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors. The updates included improvements to the ship's structural integrity, safety features, and visitor amenities, ensuring that the Yavari could continue to serve as a historical and cultural attraction on Lake Titicaca. She operates not only as a museum but also as Lake Titicaca's only floating B&B, offering a unique experience with four cabins that can accommodate seven guests.
Meriel Larken played a crucial role in these restoration efforts. Her dedication to the Yavari led to the establishment of the Yavari Project, which raised funds and awareness for the ship's preservation. In 2016, Admiral Sir Kenneth Eaton, Chairman of the Society for Nautical Research, presented the prestigious Victory Medal to Larken on board HMS Victory, in recognition of individual effort to conserve a historic ship.
The Yavari's story is a testament to human ingenuity, perseverance, and the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to preserve her legacy. From her origins on the River Thames to her current home on Lake Titicaca, the Yavari remains a remarkable symbol of maritime history and cultural heritage.
Details on Current Condition:
Today, the Yavari is fully restored moored at Puno Bay on Lake Titicaca. The Yavari's enduring legacy continues to inspire awe and admiration. The current custodian, Meriel Larken, is seeking a new benefactor to ensure the future of the Yavari. Whether for commercial use, tourism ventures, or private ownership; with imagination and vision, this remarkable vessel invites endless possibilities. The refurbished and surprisingly spacious hold of 32.8m2 presents an exciting potential that has yet to be exploited.
The owners would like Yavari to stay on the lake, as it is part of its history. It is currently looked after by a local engineer and his wife.
If you are interested in becoming the new owner of this unique historic vessel, please email Yavari@maritime.uk.com
More images, spec, etc, at the vessel link at the top of the page.
