Behind the Scenes: The Sabrina Boat Lift – 5th February

Wednesday, 5th February, marks a major milestone in The Sabrina Boat’s calendar as we prepare for our biannual lift-out. For those unfamiliar, this vital process sees our beloved boat carefully removed from the River Severn to undergo a comprehensive inspection and maintenance. While it’s a technical necessity, it’s also an exciting moment, symbolising the care and dedication that go into providing memorable experiences for our passengers.

Why Does the Boat Need a Lift-Out?

Every two years, The Sabrina Boat undergoes this meticulous lift-out to ensure that it remains in pristine condition and fully compliant with safety standards. The river can take its toll on any vessel, and a proactive maintenance routine helps us to avoid any unexpected surprises during the season. This process is about more than just keeping the boat afloat; it’s about ensuring that every journey with us is smooth, safe, and enjoyable for all.

The lift-out is a spectacle in itself, with a specialised crane and team of skilled operators carefully bringing the boat out of the water. Seeing the Sabrina out of her natural habitat is a rare and fascinating sight that highlights the engineering marvel she truly is.

What’s Involved in the Maintenance?

Once the Sabrina Boat is safely ashore, our expert team gets to work. This isn’t just a quick polish and tidy-up, it’s a thorough, detailed process to ensure that every inch of the boat is in perfect working order. Here’s what’s included:

1. Hull Inspection and Cleaning

The hull is thoroughly inspected for any signs of wear, damage, or debris build-up. Over time, natural elements like algae, barnacles, and other materials can cling to the boat, impacting its performance and fuel efficiency. Our team cleans and treats the hull, ensuring it’s ready to glide through the water effortlessly.

2. Engine Servicing

The heart of The Sabrina Boat is its engine, and it receives the full VIP treatment. This includes oil changes, part replacements, and a detailed examination to make sure everything is running smoothly and efficiently. A reliable engine is crucial for our operations, and this step ensures that we’re ready to cruise without a hitch.

3. Propeller and Rudder Checks

The propeller and rudder are critical for steering and propulsion, and they don’t escape scrutiny. We check for any damage, wear, or alignment issues and make any necessary repairs to keep the boat operating at its best.

4. Safety Equipment Overhaul

Passenger safety is always our top priority. During the maintenance, all lifejackets, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment are inspected and updated to ensure compliance with the highest maritime safety standards.

5. Aesthetic Upgrades

Finally, we give the Sabrina a bit of a makeover. This includes repainting the hull, polishing surfaces, and attending to the finer details that keep the boat looking as beautiful as ever. After all, first impressions count, and we want our passengers to step aboard a vessel that’s as stunning as the views it offers.

A Community Effort: A Huge Thank You

We’ve been truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our wonderful community. From skilled volunteers offering their time and expertise to businesses providing equipment and resources, it’s heartwarming to see how many people are eager to lend a hand. Whether you’ve sent us a message of encouragement or turned up to help on the day, we cannot thank you enough.

The Sabrina Boat has always been more than just a vessel, it’s a cherished part of Shrewsbury’s identity. Seeing so many people rally together to support her is a testament to the deep connection we all share with this iconic symbol of the town.

We’d like to extend a special thank you to our crew and partners, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this operation a success. Your dedication ensures that The Sabrina Boat continues to bring joy to locals and visitors alike, year after year.

What’s Next for The Sabrina Boat?

Once the lift-out and maintenance are complete, The Sabrina Boat will be ready to embark on another exciting season. From serene river cruises to guided walking tours and special event charters, we’re gearing up to offer a variety of unforgettable experiences in 2025. This year is particularly special as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, and we can’t wait to share all the exciting plans we have in store.

Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for updates on our progress, sneak peeks behind the scenes, and announcements about our upcoming events. We’re counting down the days until we’re back on the water, welcoming you aboard for another year of adventure and discovery.

Thank you once again for your incredible support, it means the world to us and keeps us motivated to continue delivering exceptional service. Here’s to smooth sailing and unforgettable memories in the year ahead!