Built in 1935 in Boom, Belgium, Progres is a unique and classical ship and one of only three ever built.
Originally called "Karel", she was sold to Cornelua & Janine Oosterom in 1960 and renamed "Progres". The ship was lengthened from her original 30 meters to 36 meters and the hatches and coaming were raised to increase the payload capacity, and a new ABC 126 hp engined was installed. They worked the ship as a commercial vessel, carrying goods, until Cornelius died in 1982. The new owner restored the ship to it's original form and started the conversion to a residential barge and brought the ship to the UK. The current owner bought the ship in 2001. The ABC 126 engine, now no longer functioning, was replaced with a Mermaid Manta II Marine engine. The original wheelhouse was replaced, it's length extended. The new wheelhouse, constructed in Iroko, was carefully modelled on the existing wheelhouse to maintain the unique character of the ship. The current owner then embarked on the careful conversion of the ship to create a comfortable contemporary home whilst respecting the original features. As an original ship, Progres is a "Qualifying Ship" for HMRC VAT 0% rated for some specific regulated works and Tidal Mooring (PLA etc) on the Thames. |