AN EX-naval supply ship which was delivered to Conwy last year is set to return to the town following maintenance work ahead of a voyage to Madagascar.

“Island Reach” was purchased by Christian charity “Youth With a Mission” (YMAM) in December, and then sailed to Conwy from Greenock.

It is to be converted and sent to Madagascar to serve the medical needs of the nation.

The boat is a 24-metre ex-naval, two hold, stores tender.

With a draft of only 2.2 metres, a strong hull, and good engines, she is well-suited for going up rivers and small inlets to reach communities in need.

Volunteers and members of Coleg Llandrillo are repairing and updating essential mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment on board to make it fit to sail to Madagascar.

But volunteers and some residents wish to see the ship stay in Conwy to be converted and refitted as a gift to the people of Madagascar.

READ MORE:

Conwy boat crew aim to convert vessel and deliver medical care to Madagascar

PICTURES: Helen II boat’s successful relaunch at Conwy Quay

 

The ship was moved from Conwy to the River Weaver on April 25 so that substantial steelwork fabrication could be carried out, converting the holds and upper deck section to house the medical departments below the decks and additional cabin accommodation above deck.

The work is now well advanced and the ship is scheduled to return to Conwy on September 28, dependent on weather conditions.

“Island Reach” will return to the same location on Conwy Quay and stay there throughout the winter while volunteers and contributors fit out the interiors to make the medical areas and cabins operational, ready for the journey to Madagascar in March or April 2023.

YWAM Ships is the legal owner of Island Reach, but the principal of YWAM Maritime Academy is managing this project in Conwy.