ZULUS AND LINE BOATS (4)
Though fifie conversions were numerous, zulus were soldoff to be replaced by the new generation of motor boats - indeed these were mostly the more-upright motor fifies. Smaller zulus, with a less-raking sternpost, continued to be built and these were often called 'half-zulus'. At under 50ft, these were easier to engine, and many of these were built after about 1911 with motors fitted at new.
None of the big zulus remain afloat these days which is a great shame as they were impressive boats. The biggest one in existence, the Research, LK43, built as the Heather Bell FR970, in 1903, is currently under refit as a static exhibit at the Scottish Fisheries Museum at Anstruther.
Various examples of half-zulus remain in Britain. Perhaps the best two examples are the sister boats Vesper and Violet, both built by Nobles of Fraserburgh in 1911. Vespers, FR453, awaits restoration in Buckie while Violet, FR451, ceased fishing in 1936 and was later taken to America for conversion, where she still sails.
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