Swansea’s ‘banana boat’ set for a comeback
PLANS are being made to restore a well-known Swansea boat to its former glory.
The pilot cutter Seamark was for many years a familiar sight in Swansea Bay to both local and visiting seafarers.
She was the first of her kind and served for more than 40 years after being launched in the late 1950s. Often referred to as the “banana boat” because of her colour and curved appearance, she is currently docked in Swansea Marina.
Now a small charity hopes to get the vessel ship-shape again, with the help of Gower College engineering apprentices and the public.
Simon Forster, chairman of the Pilot Cutter Seamark Trust, explained: “As part of Swansea’s maritime heritage, there is a need to preserve this vessel for future generations.
“She served the Port of Swansea, Port Talbot and Neath River during her 42 years of service and in all weather conditions.
“She is now in urgent need of restoration and it would be a great shame for the nautical history of the Port of Swansea if this is not attempted.
The charity plans to convert the Seamark into a floating maritime heritage museum.
Mr Forster said: “In order to achieve this, we need to raise £150,000, for which we are looking at various grants and donations from local companies.”