Those Who Helped

Plank Owner Certificates  were issued to those who help the efforts to return Barbarossa to her rightful place among the great seagoing schooners of the world.

Schooner Barbarossa... aground off Key West

Ahoy, and thanks for your interest.

UPDATE 2 January 2006: The Barbarossa is no more.
A website visitor said she was cut up and removed long ago.

Below, you will find information regarding Schooner Barbarossa.
They are posted in chronological order of posting.  For the most current message, please scroll to the bottom of the page.

Wonderful News:
Schooner Barbarossa has a new owner, Matt Ryan, and we wish him much success in this worthy endeavor.  One day you will look out over the horizon and see a magnificent sailing ship cutting through the waters. She'll be this one, which has sparked our imagination in ways that the new plastics simply cannot....

Please be sure to check the Update Page for further details.

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2003 12:27 PM

Schooner BARBAROSSA ~

An interesting and classic schooner, her keel laid in the 60's somewhere in Indonesia.... havin' sailed grandly many a year.... now has foundered here in Key West ~ bow to the shore of a small sandy beach island.

Her ownership had recently changed, from that of a seasoned sailor and one who had learned through the years those necessities of ownership and care of wooden sailing vessel, to one who was of less experience. Such became the cause of her demise. Yet demise it may yet not be.

He position is secure while no storm of severe degree approaches.

Her previous owner struggles to gain contact with the newer owner in effort to formulate a game plan for the BARBAROSSA. This newer owner having wandered toward different shores, of disparate interest, and thus allowing the fine vessel to chance. Chance has not been well received thus far.

While attempting to gain more accurate and in-depth information about this schooner of 64' and gaff rig, I thought this topic of challenge to those sailors among us who maintain romantic dream-state interest in sailin' vessels of yore.

Here in the Keys it is an extremely difficult scenario for the vessel foundered and without deep-pocket ownership. The wooden hull is cast as a Pariah in terms of ability to have hauling and blocking for service procedures accomplished. {One rather infamous 'shipyard' has demanded a hefty 'cash-bond' prior to haul, while others simply and steadfastly refuse.}........

Information thus far forwarded to me is that she is of sound hull.

That neglect was her cause for foundering, possibly a stuffin' box in need of re-pack and service, or simply battery banks allowed to deplete and thus eliminate her pump functions. All wooden vessel will take on water to some degree, some more than others, and for various reasons. Many are of the theory that these vessels are a liability, many are not. I liken such a classic wooden hull to, of course, a classic woman of beauty..... while such a pleasure to be with and touch and gaze upon, such romance filling each day's encounter, such dreams of continual presence..... it is concomitant with all this to be fairly cognizant, and with great empathy, of the many idiosyncratic facets of such a fine gal. A labor of love ..... time well spent, time well rewarded.

Ahhhh.... I digress~ Now as time rolls forth here in Cayo Hueso and as I am able to glean more specific information of this sailing schooner, I will post such news. My hope may be that others might become involved in some fashion, that interest alone might in some way be of assistance, or mayhap that in just the writing of this unfolding tale~ the Schooner BARBAROSSA will not have been lost entirely.

Her previous owner has agreed to a rendezvous~ to bring archival and historical information of this vessel, and an album of photographs of her grander sailing days.

I will summon those winds, waves, mermaids of the depths, & all creatures well & far with whom I have cavorted over the many years~ together we will hope to hold at bay those tremendous random forces which may hinder further this once proud vessel~

I have witnessed such demise of vessels many times over many years. Each one has been a saddening experience. Each one has been a lesson well learned. And each has further solidified my love of and thought for the greatest vessels of all time which have ever sailed the seas~ those created of natural wooden shapes and forms~ and with the labours of love of the men who oft sail them.

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: Robin Engel
Sent: Wednesday, June 25, 2003 7:26 PM

Greetings from Bira, South Sulawesi, Indonesia and home of the SongLine Cruises and the Traditional Fleet of Indonesia. I have watched this groups comments on ice locked liveaboards in DC and watched the season arrival and its massive increases in the news groups activity. Todays comments on BARBAROSSA at her present prosition in Key West has called me to respond with hope of assistance.

If someone can produce some digital photos of her persent position and condition, I will be pleased to share some comments on how Indonesian's resolve this type of problem with out the use of an expensive yard. It is not difficult at all. As my mind races on with other ways that we could assist in this undertaking, we could possilbly offer to organize a team of local boat building craftsmen to fly to Key West, to repair the vessel. The PR value of such an undertaking could be of great value to the Indonesian Marine Tourism industry in which we are very much involved in helping find its rightfull place in the Yachting and Cruising market around the world.

I look forward to updates on the plite of KLM Barbarossa. The KLM tag is the Indonesian classification for KAPAL (Boat), Layar (Sail) Motor (yep engine)

Robin the Schooner Man !

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Thursday, June 26, 2003 2:01 AM

Ahoy once again... Robin Engel ~

I am pleased to find your interest has been invigorated and your awareness of the goings on in these seas keen.

Your immediate response which included spontaneous projections is much akin to my personal ways of thinking and acting~~~ I well appreciate such philosophies.

As I mentioned in my post, at rendezvous with her original owner, I will hopefully have much information relative to the history of the Schooner BARBAROSSA. Photographs (standard album style) have been promised as well.

It is my intention, as discussed with this sailor and agreed upon, to scan such photographic archives, as well as any other hard copy documentation of BARBAROSSA..... after which I will re-format and memorialize in various compatible and reciprocal computer applications. Once having accomplished that task, I will be in position to forward specific and complete (as is hoped) information and data.

I intend to conduct a personal survey of the vessel this week, and will post my complete and specific findings and results, as well as further recommendations.

Your interest, assistance and perseverance in this matter will be greatly appreciated by not only myself, but as well by her former Captain, and most importantly~ by Schooner BARBAROSSA herself.

It is my belief, and from my experience with wooden sailing vessels, that indeed there exists a multitude of procedures by which she may be at the very least re-floated, and the next degree of success: repaired to a satisfactory status of watertight integrity. I have learned that BARBAROSSA had been hauled recently, refitted to some degree, and launched, sailed, and moored while maintaining a satisfactory degree of watertight integrity. It is my understanding that her foundering was the cause, not of major hull integrity factors, but that of owner/Captain negligence, and only after her recent transfer of ownership.

To facilitate communication in this matter: I am at ease with providing you my personal telephone/fax/mailing address.

I suggest you e-mail me at [email link removed] ....

for this information, if indeed such procedure is amenable to you.

Again~ I thank you for your interest and sincere response to the original post.

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Thursday, June 26, 2003 2:31 AM

Robin Engel~

In my previous post the following was not included:

Digital photographic 3 or 4+ mp documentation of my survey of this vessel

will be included in my survey report.

These specifics I will be pleased to forward to you directly via the methodology of your choosing.

Also, here in the United States~ we refer to all sailing vessels with the specific designation: S/V........ in most cases the Schooners use the designation < Schooner > rather than S/V.

Example: the 62' Ketch DREAMCHASER ~ S/V DREAMCHASER

the 64' Schooner BARBAROSSA ~ Schooner BARBAROSSA

Granted, this is an informal practice, and technically incorrect, yet with respect to the classic nature of the Schooners of the world, it is well accepted, understood, and most often adhered to.

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

".... Hi. I have been reading the emails this morning and I really appreciate what u are doing as i sailed on Barbarrosa for a time. This of course years ago and i rebedded all her decks one summer, what a trip, I loved it. I wish I had learned how to do all of that wood work and caulking long before. I probably would be famous now. Thank you, thank you, for your help. I always loved coming to the Barbarossa and enjoying the smell of her wooden flavor all over my clothes. She sailed so beautifully I had wonderful times on her in the Caribbean..."

anonymous contributor

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Thursday, June 26, 2003 6:10 AM

Robin Engle ~

I have arranged for the survey, photographic documentation, and transfer of construction history and cruise itinerary history all to take place on the morrow.

This is the end of my day (well past it) and not being a spritely youngster any longer, I must retire. For at least an hour or so! My days of 24 hours at the helm without fatigue have long since passed. After I have completed my survey, gained aforementioned documentation, which at this stage, after just having spoken with her owners, seems not only in order but quite interesting and intriguing, we will communicate further.

All pertinent information will be forwarded to you at that time.

In detail, with jpg. formatted files...etc....etc. ~

Now, and before I literally tumble from my position at this particular helm...

I shall take my leave.

Steep Seas & Howlin'Gales~

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

Flagship REVENANT Man O'War

Caribbean Fleet O'Infamy

Conch Republic Navy

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Friday, June 27, 2003 2:55 AM

Robin Engel~

In response to your caveat~

"...One thing I can assure you with this boat..... Do not try to tow her from her present position...."

The procedure is as follows:

Once her ability to maintain watertight integrity at her present angle of list, and while resting on the seabed, is secured.... she will be surrounded by airbags and floated to just a degree enough which will allow her to gain motion astern.

Without touching the seabed, and without further attempt to float her higher, she will then be moved into slightly deeper depth. Then her airbags will be realigned and her degree of list decreased so as to begin her motion towards an even keel position. Once such even keel (upright) position has been accomplished, then she will be moved into yet greater depth. This depth should be just again below her actual keel/seabed alignment. At that time she will be further floated until she has all water removed from her and is maintaining an even keel and fore/aft trim. From that point on the task continues with the reorganization of her watertight integrity concerns.

This, of course, is the basic scenario..... I have not included the prerequisite and extensive procedures which are necessary prior to the initial step listed above. Nor the complex and further procedures requisite afterward.

It is my earnest hope that at conclusion of rendezvous and survey, all gleaned information will support the notion that she is:

1] in condition which is feasible for salvage/restoration

2] an Indonesian designed vessel: keel having been laid in an Indonesian shipyard/shipwork

3] of close to original construction with few, if any, modifications/alterations

4] complete with as much original historical documentation and chronology as practicable

5] as sound of spar and rig as reported ~ with superstructure intact

Were all the above to be positively confirmed, I will believe then that her restoration project is a viable and worthwhile concern.

A project such as this needs be conducted initially with the greatest of sincere concern for not only the seabed upon which she rests, but the waters which surround and flow continually past her. Oil booms and catch devices to preclude contamination will be of immediate and primary concern.

Damage to the seabed must be avoided at all cost.

The USCG Group Key West, FWC Key West, USCG MSO Marathon/Key West, and various government agencies have been notified and are assisting me at this time with procedural prerequisites to an environmentally safe salvage operation of this vessel. Two of the above listed agencies have indicated a willingness to accompany me at time of survey with intent to provide assistance in terms of such procedures.

I have contacted and placed on "standby" status a Salvage Master with whom I have been previously associated, and with intent that his arrival be upon project inception.

I am of the belief that this Schooner BARBAROSSA project may be of tremendous benefit to the Key West Community, the State of Florida, and an asset to relations between the Indonesian Shipyards and those of the United States, as well as being educationally sound and of historical value to the general public and youth whom gain further knowledge through this endeavour of man's ability to guard and maintain the security of those things of the past which were created of ingenuity, intelligence, tenacity, and perseverance.

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Saturday, June 28, 2003 3:54 AM

The Schooner BARBAROSSA lies yet still foundered ..... winds are calm, rain does fall, of this vessel I say to all......

I'll make my effort..... place my hand...... Tis now known about the land..... If'n me I've my way......Barbarossa will sail yet another day....

Winds will fill her sails of yore..... Children will again yet her adore......

Seas will slide beneath her bow....... Stars will shine above her prow.....

Ahhhhh..... Now I an ancient soul....... Find such this quite the goal.....

Weary worn scarred and bent..... Of years of this which I have spent.....

Yet now again I find youth's spring.... Of this deed which to me the depths do bring.......

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Saturday, June 28, 2003 2:08 PM

Barbarossa update & a Cayo Hueso Night ~~~

The FWC (formerly known as Marine Patrol), here in Key West

has at my request issued an incident number and has stayed progress towards declaring her a "Derelict Vessel". An important initial step.

Any vessel having been declared derelict becomes the property of the county and the state, and is therefore on the way to disposal. This is often accomplished with the use of a barge, crane, and clamshell bucket, which then rips the vessel apart piece by piece and carts it to the local junkyard.

Her previous owner, he who abandoned her and allowed her to founder, has been located and is in the process of accomplishing a transfer of ownership and fulfilling state and county requisites so that she may be recovered by her new ownership.

He has no further interest in this vessel.

Several marine oriented individuals have expressed willingness to assist in the recovery project and are very interested in the well being of Barbarossa.

I will be aboard the vessel today and tomorrow...... removing her sail inventory and diving on her hull to determine current status.

The weather patterns here are quite erratic at this time of year; last night offered us a blow of near 60kts by some reports and sustained 30-40 with rain squalls.

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Sunday, June 29, 2003 11:44 AM

from a reply to the posts re: the sloop in distress.... & KLM Barbarossa ~

It's a sad commentary on some members of the human group. There are too many uncivilized souls with no regard for beautiful things such as vessels be they power or sail, not to mention their total disregard for nature and all the wonders that she offers!

and my reponse:

Correct you are, yet there are still plenty of us who have a much nicer philosophy. I am more interested in cultivating the friendships of these enlightened individuals, encouraging the continuance of such demeanor, and complimenting those who~ have a bit of seawater coursing through their veins!

As to the Schooner KLM BARBAROSSA ~ a well experineced and respected Key West Salvage Master has agreed to dive on her for me and waive his standard fees for such effort, survey her current condition and report as to whether she can indeed be recovered. His report will also include an estimate of the total cost consideration for this undertaking. A wooden hull resting on the seabed suffers with each turn of tide, each degree of wind change and intensity.... time is now of the essence. All the "ducks" are in a row with which to begin, it now becomes a matter of financial backing. I continue to solicit assistance in all ways possible. Hmmmm..... should I commission the design of say ~ a T-Shirt... with "Free Barbarossa" imprinted?

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2003 5:11 PM

I have a couple of additions to the "PlankOwner" List: and/or of those who have contributed time, effort, money ~ and in one case: blood!

1} Capt. Thomas Picht ~ SkipJack BLUE POINT

Capt.Tom dove on the Schooner Barbarossa in an attempt to recover the inscriptions from her Indonesian Medallion mounted on her rudder. The seas were rough and the wind of strength. His dive accomplished a survey of her hull as she rests on the bottom.... "fine shape" says he! Upon his return toward his tender/dive boat he caught a leg on an abandoned steel pipe lying adjacent to the grounding site of the Schooner Barbarossa. The gash was severe, yet under control. He is recovering nicely and will refrain from further underwater work until his wound heals. Capt. Tom remains most enthusiastic that the Schooner Barbarossa is indeed able to be rescued, and to express his words to me I put it thusly: ~ "She is a worthy and great Schooner, I hope she can become part of Key West history and sail again as the proud vessel she once was".....

My Cannons Fire in Salute to Capt. Tom of the SkipJack BLUE POINT! ~

More to follow.

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Monday, June 30, 2003 5:31 PM

Of Interest?

An accomplished Web Designer, if that is the correct terminology, has offered and thus begun efforts to establish a WebPage for the Schooner KLM Barbarossa.

It is being completed and enhanced as I type this post.

As soon as this site becomes available I will post the link.

I am struggling to accomplish the retrieval of photographs and thus transfer of such to web format. Close..... but not quite. Should have it done soon.

Winds and seas are severe here, yet Barbarossa rests yet well in place, I think she may feel that help is on the way, and is hanging on with her best efforts!

Those of you who have a desire to become associated with this rescue of a Grand Sailing Vessel will be able to easily do so through the links and specific information provided at the WebPages of the Schooner KLM Barbarossa ~

Please continue to forward to me via e-mail, or through these group posts, continued and most helpful advice and information as such I have received an abundance of thus far!

I continue to be quite impressed by the sheer numbers of those who have expressed sincerity of interest and the desire to see this Schooner once again sail her seas~

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: Robin Engel
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2003 5:17 AM

Please be advised that I have returned from Bali and at present I am looking at a long list of long e-mails on KLM Barbarossa. I have even seen the one digital photo of the vessel, which was interesting and while not Traditional in the true sence of the word, she seems like many that are built here, under contract for forigen owners.

Please summarize the actions of the last week to bring me up to speed on this project !

Robin Engel

SongLine Cruises of Indonesia
http://www.songlinecruises.com

From: Javier
Sent: Wednesday, July 02, 2003 4:51 AM

Beatiful ship it is indeed to my eyes.

Good luck to it and to your generous project

Date: 3 July 2003 as per message from NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

It has just been learned that Schooner KLM Barbarossa, during previous years, sailed under the name: Schooner MONSOON. According to this source, she was built in Indonesia and then shipped via freighter for completion of her topside and interior in the US. She sailed the North Atlantic as MONSOON originally. Anyone with further information is encouraged to respond.

From: Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 to an interested party:

".....Forgive this short reply, I will go into depth later.

I am able to act as intermediary, or you may communicate directly with the Salvage Master, as to procedural prerequisites.

Your offer, at glance, is wonderful, let's see if we can get KLM Barbarossa afloat, safely tethered to a mooring (her hull is in excellent condition thus far~ she foundered as a direct result of a leaking and unattended stuffing box), and work out the details from that point forward.

[NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]

To: Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 from Horst Liebner:

".... After the first mail (on which I didn't answer as I'm very busy writing an article ....) I thought of a vessel which allegedly had been built in Tana Beru around that time and than -as the tale goes- sailed to America. However, we now know that she came by cargo-ship - but as we know our Macassan sailors, a lost tale of a ship going to America might have lost this detail, too, so we can't really outrule this hear-say .... .

The photo just shows a western schooner .... and all details I can make out are completely untraditional in a Sulawesian context. Note e.g. the bowsprit attachments and the waterstays (she seemingly even has a figurehead!), the stayboards outside the hull, the rigging .... there is no ambeng aft deck, no siderudders ore beams for these, no wooden ladders instead of ratlines, nothing really which on first sight might characterize her as a Sulawesian built vessel - except perhaps the timbang layaraq boomrest on aft-deck (! which too doesn't look really local).

However, it seems that vessels of this style were traditionally built in the early 20th cent in the Moluccas - I saw photos of schooners from Ambon, Banda etc which showed these lines (but, however, a schooner is a schooner anyway ....). Her comparatively sharp bows mightmightmight be a sign of Butonese craftmanship and by this point to the Moluccas - Tana Beru builders don't do that.

It too is possible that she was built in Java, maybe even in a 'modern' wharf: There was quite some tradition of building pleasure vessels for the Dutch before the war there, and I wouldn't be surprised if someone just went to one of these yards and had a schooner built. Maybe Mike in Surabaya can help? Robin, contact him and send a compressed jpg of the photo!

A simple check to know whether she was built by traditional Sulawesian craftsmen would be to look at the plank attachments: Are they fixed edge-to-edge! using wooden dowels? Are frames connected to planks by dowels?

I don't get that thing on a medaillion on the rudder. I never heard of anything like that - pls keep in mind that centred rudders are European and not Indonesian.

Anyway, the owner hopefully can produce some details about her origins. And I very much agree - this vessel looks like a lady of classic beauty, and it would be an unforgivable shame for her to rot away on some sandbank. And what a tale her first owner might tell on her being dreamed of and contemplated on and finally built in the 1960ies Indonesia!

Sallana battu ri Mangkassaraq -

[Horst Liebner]

From: klabowterwoman
Sent: Friday, July 04, 2003 11:33 PM

To Barbarossa,

when You are finished with Your renewal,
I promise to paint Your portrait,
You can add to Your ships gallery.
Thats my way and possible manner of participation.

signed kbw

From: Schooner Barbarossa [as per NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]
Sent: Saturday, July 05, 2003 4:52 AM

Your offer & sentiments are well received~
Of things o'sea & winds often so believed~
Thus such gift indeed may be so placed~
That this vessel then shall be further graced~

Schooner BARBAROSSA

In a note from Ramon, the following questions were raised.

Will the ship be sailed commercially once it's restored?

Will it remain a private vessel?

Will "Plank Owners" have a courtesy sailing?

Is the restoration by volunteer or commercial labor, knowledge etc?

How long is restoration expected to take as of now?

What is expected cost of restoration?

No matter what, best of luck and hope the project is successful. It would be great to see such a ship lose it's subaltern status and become a Queen again.

Ramon

From SongLine's Robin Engel:

".........I think I have a picture of what has transpired with KLM Barbarossa, while I was in Bali.

As explained in my first message, my company SongLine Cruises of Indonesia and the Traditional Fleet are willing to:

A. Consult with you and your various contacts in KEY WEST on ways in which this vessel might be righted and moved from her present grounded position to a floating position again. This procedure is based on the Traditional way of re-floating boats here.

B. If necessary, we are willing to collect a team of local craftsmen which would fly to Key West and accomplish the necessary restoration of this vessel. In this plan, we would only be willing to involve the Indonesian Government by asking that they provide the needed air-transportation to Key West to accomplish this task. I am presently awaiting contact details on the Indonesian Consul General in Houston, who is responsible for the area of Florida. My intention would be to provide him with background on this matter and your phone contact in hopes attempting to gain his support in the recovery process and to assist with the submission of air-transport requests to the Department of Culture and Tourism or the Department of Sea and Fisheries. Please understand that we do have close contacts in both of these departments.

It should be noted, that Government Ordered transportation is not going to include domestic air-transport in the USA. Garuda Indonesia does not fly to the USA, but rather, the Indonesian Government does have access to seats for Government Business. I wish to make it clear that I can not promise that such seat requests would be approved, but we would be willing to try with the assistance of the Consul General in Houston. It should be noted that air fares from here to Key West has a value of approx. 1000usd per person.

C. We would be willing ! to provide back-up PR support from this end, should the recovery process start. This support could be in the form of local Television coverage from the various stations operating here in Indonesia as well as Print Media.

D. We would be willing to circulate requests for donations for the recovery project through local media and contact here, including the members of the Traditional Fleet and the Traditional Sailing Yacht Club of Indonesia.

I await your comments !

Robin Engel
SongLine Indonesia Traditional Fleet

Current Update

US Documentation Certificate in hand~

18 gross ton, 14 net, 42.4 LWL, 54 LOD, 64 LOA, 5'5" draft, 13 beam, keel laid 1959... Belawan-Deli, Sumatra, Indonesia.

1 1/2" IROKO carvel planked, 3" IROKO sawn frames 15" on centers, laid and caulked fir decking, 9" high bulwarks w/2"x7" caps, stern taffrail, bowsprit with footropes and bobstays.

1 1/2" bronze shaft, 21 1/2" 3blade prop, 120 SS fuel & 250 SS water tankage, inboard rudder quadrant wheel steering through Edson unit. Westerbeake 4-236 diesel 75hp, wet pipe exhaust, Pargaon 2:1 gear, anchor windlass, 12 volt electrical ship and 110 volt shore power.

TopSail Schooner.

Originally built for Michael L. Cowell in 1959, in Belawan-Deli and shipped to US, finally fitted out in Massachusetts Shipyard.

Continuing efforts proceed. The following letter was sent to FWC in Monroe County, Florida:

Lt. Kim Dipre:

Re: Schooner BARBAROSSA

The Schooner BARBAROSSA, lying adjacent to Wisteria Island, and foundered, has become of concern to many individuals and organizations here in Key West, as well as throughout the State of Florida.

This vessel was originally designed and her keel laid in Indonesia, in 1959.

SongLine Traditional Fleet of Indonesia has become extremely interested and has suggested a restoration and recovery plan which would include the transportation of members of their shipbuilding crew to Key West, for the purpose of restoration of this vessel.

My efforts on behalf of this vessel are volunteered. I have no proprietary interest in the vessel, hold no claim to title of, nor have intent to profit from her recovery. The same holds true for all others thus far involved with this rescue project.

I was originally asked for assistance by a former crew member, and a former owner of the Schooner BARBAROSSA. Since that time I have communicated with the USCG Group Key West, USCG MSO Marathon, FWC, and the Monroe County Marine Resources, Marine Projects Coordinator; Kim McGee, and with regard to correct procedural prerequisites to such a recovery attempt.

I have received two formal estimates for her 're-float' and transportation to a shipyard facility from licensed Marine Salvage operators here in the Keys, a third from a Miami based operation.

Another volunteer has designed and developed an Internet Website location which facilitates further information and solicits continued assistance. This volunteer, Janice Marois, is a resident of Pensacola, Florida.

URL: http://www.janice142.com/SOS/Barbarossa.htm

As many as 1200 (approximate) individuals frequently participating in online sailing discussions and information exchanges have become aware of the plight of this vessel.

It has been suggested that were this vessel to be declared "derelict", that no further or continued attempts at recovery by private citizenry would possible. It is our goal to hold in abeyance such classification until such time as an actual recovery attempt begins, or efforts are abandoned.

Your advice, and the benefit of your experience in matters such as this, become of extreme importance at this time.

You may find the information which you will need relative to this vessel, her current status, her ownership, and those thus far involved with the efforts to recover her, online at the website. Many stories, rumors, and various documents have surfaced with regard to ownership of this vessel, as well as the cause(s) for her foundering.

Thus far the only substantiated ownership is as listed within the website, with the following exception:

Her most recent owner, as per Boat Registration Certificate [edited to protect privacy] Mr. Unnamed has been contacted by a former owner of this vessel, and has indicated no further personal interest in the vessel. He has assigned a power of attorney to that individual, which directs action on his behalf relative to the Schooner BARBAROSSA.

While it may be entirely possible that efforts by all concerned parties may be futile, we remain concerned for the vessel, as well as the seabed upon which she rests, and remain willing to continue to volunteer assistance in this matter.

Your advice, and/or suggestions, will be well appreciated..........."
[NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]

In a letter, from Lt. Kim Dipre of the FWC in Monroe County, Florida...
"........My first concern would be verifying the rightful owner of the schooner, "Barbarossa." Is your dilemma one of acquiring title? It seems that you have already investigated who the rightful owner is and that power of attorney has been assigned to an individual; however, it is not clear to me who this individual is.

Is the individual Mr. Harry Nelson, or the owner prior to Mr. Nelson's ownership? I mean no disrespect, but your writing is not clear and somewhat ambiguous. Please give me more details so I can understand if I can be of assistance.

If, however, SongLine Traditional Fleet of Indonesia (or whomever is designated) are able to acquire title, free of any liens or interests, then you would have no other legal issues with recovering the "Barbarossa."

As you have already indicated, you have already contacted and received estimates from licensed and insured marine salvagers and you have a proposed plan of action.

Perhaps your main goal is to prevent this vessel from being declared derelict. In order for me to respond to your request, please clarify for me who is the rightful owner and what is their intention with the Barbarossa? Also, what time frames are you anticipating for your recovery should you get the go ahead?

Lt. Dipre

Lieutenant Dipre,

It has been my pleasure to receive your answer, and thus gain opportunity to further enlighten as relative to the Schooner KLM BARBAROSSA.

Ambiguity becomes of necessity when dealing with the proprietary interests of individuals whom, although may have begun from the correct frame of reference, have veered astray of courses first well laid.

Internet publication of any documents, and or information of a proprietary or personal nature, must first be approved, and or edited for such publication by each individual or group concerned. The right to privacy of anyone involved in this matter must be considered, and thus any expressed desire to remain anonymous must be honored. This would not be the case were a governmental agency to become involved, and in the course of such involvement require such information.

I have contact with a previous owner, as suggested by earlier communication with your department; I suggest, therefore, that if it is the intent of your department to pursue further interest with these individuals: the information I have is yours for the asking of. If you wish the purported previous owner to communicate with you directly, and state as much in your next response to me; I will then suggest the same to that individual. I have been asked to maintain a specific degree of 'discretion' by the former crew member who originally petitioned my assistance, as well as the purported previous owner, concerning involvement in this matter and/or publication of the names of these same individuals.

Simply put, Lt. Dipre, I am available for:

Verification of actual ownership of the vessel, verification of purported ownership of the vessel < as relayed to me by a previous owner >, verification of previous US Documentation Certificate, Delaware Boat Registration (exp2002), and verification of survey request requisite to purported ownership transfers prior to 1999.

Upon your request to me, I will forward copies of this partial documentation of ownership chronology. I have already supplied your department with actual certificate numbers and data.

As I believe to be true and correct at this time, Mr. Nelson is the current legal owner of the vessel. This presumption is verified when considering the Delaware Boat Registration (the most recent legal and verifiable document designating ownership).

The individual holding power of attorney claims to be a previous owner, yet here has been no substantiation of this in terms of legal documentation or verification, other than a single "survey request" form in the name of said previous owner and dated in 1994. Authenticity of this single, (weather worn and deteriorated), document has not been determined as yet.

The power of attorney document (dated: 06, June, 03) and assigned to the same individual named in the aforementioned "survey request" specifically precludes only the following:

"....... the accrual of any encumbrance against it, or the closing of any bill of sale, without the specific written consent of the (owner) ........"

The above a quote from the final paragraph of the 'power of attorney' document. That document bears a notary seal and commission # issued in the State of Florida. That document bears the name and signature of: "Harry Nelson".

Various stories, rumors, and scuttlebutt: which I am neither interested in, nor will care to repeat, have surfaced with regard to her most recent transfer of ownership (to Mr. Nelson), her cause(s) for foundering, and the whereabouts of her actual registered owner: Mr. Nelson.

It has been reported to me that a degree of looting has taken place thus far, yet with increased interest in the vessel shown by local reputable mariners, this seems to have decreased. There seems to be, however, no indication that FWC has thus far shown any interest in the vessel, nor the activities which may or may not occur at her site of foundering.

Verification of Shipyard Indonesian and factual history of this specific vessel is anticipated within a reasonable time-frame from: SongLine Indonesia.

If indeed I, and thus so inadvertently others, have overstepped our 'bounds', so to speak; and this is a matter which should be handled in its entirety by Monroe County FWC, then do feel free to inform us so. Our concern is not so much the acquisition of title to the vessel ( a rather simple matter of legal documentation of such transfer), as it is to the preclusion of any recovery effort were the vessel declared derelict. Thus the request for a cessation of action which might result in such declaration.

Time-frames for actual recovery may not be intelligently proposed at this time, due to the nature of the recovery attempt, the volunteer status of such, and the excessive degree of continual communication between various individual and groups which is necessitated by such a volunteer effort.

Our prime directive is to maintain an open channel of communication between all and any interested parties, and to facilitate in any way possible the recovery of the vessel.

A most recent request (17, July, 2003) from SongLine Indonesia, is for photographs of her actual foundered position and current condition/location/position.

Would therefore, considering the interest of FWC in such matters as this, be it plausible to request of your department, upon a cursory inspection of the vessel, to obtain such photographic evidence? Were your department to be able to forward via e-mail, or make available for transfer, such photographic documentation; our efforts would be facilitated, and a time-frame for recovery might be more readily pursued, and forwarded to FWC.

I suggest that it would be in the best interests of all concerned for FWC to assign a patrol craft to approach the Schooner Barbarossa, inspect her current condition and location, photograph same, and make available to us such information. Certainly such an event will eventually be required, possibly as standard procedure. Might we encourage hastening the process?

At your pleasure,
[NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]

".............I am responding in order direct you on the best course of action and possibly to assuage your concerns of the vessel "Barbarossa" being declared derelict. In view of the circumstances that you and others have demonstrated large concerns for the vessel, it seems clear to me that you have earnest interest in recovering the vessel, if at all possible, and restoring it to sound condition.

If there is no owner at this time claiming to have interest in the vessel "Barbarossa," then the easiest course of action would be for you, or whomever else so desires, to claim this vessel through the lost or abandoned vessel process. Our agency has the authority to assist you in this process. The fees required will be $200.00, and is non refundable even if after depositing the $200.00, the rightful owner comes forward to reclaim their vessel. At your discretion, if you feel the owner has no interest in the vessel, and the vessel title is free and clear of liens you can contact FWC dispatch and advise them you wish to claim the "Barbarossa." Advise them of your incident number and they will assign an officer to investigate your claim. The officer will also attempt to locate and verify ownership for the "Barbarossa" in order to begin the found property process. Please be so kind as to assist the officer by being prepared to exhibit the purported history/ownership documentation you have mentioned in your recent correspondence.

I have not personally inspected the vessel and I am going to be out of pocket for the next week. As yet, I have not received your snail mail package, so I apologize that there will quite possible be a request for some redundancy on your part. Since I will not personally be investigating your claim, I encourage you to contact our FWC dispatch 289-2320, extension 92, so they can dispatch an officer and you can begin your claim process. Again, advise them of your incident number in order to simplify things. After the investigating officer inspects the vessel, and if their discretion deems the vessel to be suitable for processing as found property, this action will prevent the vessel from being declared derelict.

Wishing you the best success in your endeavors,
[Lt. Kim Dipre]

21 July 2003 [NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]

Not a nice mornin'.....
Just off phone with reports that Schooner BARBAROSSA is now under attack from looters!

from her previous owner:
"They ripped her whole wheel, pedestal and all..... from her last night.... tearing her apart anyway they can.... took the worm gear... she'll be lost soon.... no respect.. I think I know who they are.... maybe can recover her gear....

Tell those Indonesian folk to come quick.... at least recover her hull and take it home with them on a freighter......"

This from the previous owner.... after learning of current situation.

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Monday, July 21, 2003 3:37 PM

Now...... & of a weary set o'mind.... I say then this: of that: BARBAROSSA

........ There was then one day... when received then I such request from former crew, deckhand, former lover of owner of & vessel, too: former owner of...... Schooner BARBAROSSA ~ {Har! Ye've whot ken..... Tis piece yet revealed........Now so Done!~} [ Whot ayre be 'er nomme de plume..... those days..... Monsoon then was she known....... named of need .....]

Her "13'" beam build document is what shivers me very timbres......... given what I now piece together for a historical account of this vessel..... Her very history & yet her current travail....... ~ MONTOWESE ~ MONSOON ~ BARBAROSSA ~ Conceived o'13 & run thrice a'lee...... ye be now. thus so~ I continue, though, for personal directives thus prerequisite, and as much one {Gentleman Corsair Meveryown .. Atlantean Mermaids 'avin' learned me such......} do say........ Aye! Pursue!

That message was~ "......can you assist (in my words)......

REPLY: I have done well {by mine own standards...thanks much~ ...) Yet it appalls me how little I have accomplished.

One man touched her in a dive..... ashore he then went with scars now for future.........
One man touched her Dream ...... Her Dream~

I intend to publish the "Barbarossa Lost Book O'Reason" after compilation of contributing authors has been achieved~ For myownveryself 'tis whot's whot ayre comic tragedy~ agi'n for only my world o'seas & vessels...... Tis so ayre oft man whot ayre o'Sea...... Yet ne'er ne'er ken twere whot himself so be.. I am but one........... AYE! ~ PURSUE!!!

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Friday, July 25, 2003 9:57 AM

"...... Lieutenant Dipre,

I'll take this moment to thank you for your immediate attention to the matter of the sailing vessel Schooner BARBAROSSA.

I have received information from the previous "owner" that an individual has become interested in the possibility of accepting ownership, and responsibility for recovery.

The interested party has not been discovered nor has verification of this claim been available.

I have passed along a link to your instructional advice, and will suggest correct procedural parameters.

I will update your department if and when further information is available.

Again ~ Thank you......."

[NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003]

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2003 6:40 AM

Capt. Bill ~

Now; I have just the question for you~ 1 1/2" carvel planked Iroko hull of 54' on deck: submerged thirty days, lying keel to seabed, starboard side down. Fir planked decks and unknown bulkhead structure.

The limits of my experience have me only taking a worst case scenario best WAG ~ at this one....

What additional damage is relatively potential in the case of such a craft?

Not damage due to her grounding and  lying on the seabed.... but damage due to prolonged exposure to submersion, and/or further anticipated de-structuring during dry out.......???

It strikes me as though increased saturation of joinery, bulkhead composites, deck planking, and bulwark configuration would create specific problems.... there may be a distinct potential for additional and/or increased damage as the saturated wood drys while blocked on the "hard" during restoration procedures.

Then I think .... well...cover her when she comes out... maintain plenty of ventilation inside and out, yet eliminate exposure to the sun. Necessary?

Then I can only guess at damage to bulkheads and other structural mains.

I have never surveyed a vessel of this degree of saturation, nor been involved with a restoration of such. It may be that there really is not much difference in damage for the craft down 10 days and that of the craft down 40 days.... yet somehow I seriously doubt it. I am aware that the greatest concern will be for her hull fasteners and the damage to hull integrity as she continues to work with tide and current, wind and wave action.... against the seabed upon which she rests...... and so on and so on..... but this new batch of questions are nagging at me...... So I now am in earnest search for answers.

I have been intending to place such a query in the hands of various experienced souls...

Care to get yours 'wet'?

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: Bill
Sent: Sunday, July 27, 2003 6:49 AM

Captain NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 -

First off, let me preface any and all comments I make in this post with the following statements:

<<I have not seen this vessel! These comments are my own WAG!>>

That said, there are four primary areas of concern with any sinking event:

1.) Cause of sinking and condition prior to sinking.

2.) Present conditions of internal/external structures, with consideration of their ability to withstand salvage efforts.

3.) Risk of pollution.

4.) Restoration of major systems - in this case, the rigging, mechanical and electrical systems.

Being down for thirty days is certainly worse than being down for one, or even ten. Chances of a "reasonable" resurrection rapidly slip away with time. The fact she's been down for as long as you said she has indicates to me her owner(s) have no insurance.

Your "worst-case" scenarios are well founded. It is highly probable there will be substantial deterioration of composite materials, glues, and soft goods. The water inside the hull and compartments is most likely a mix of emulsified oil/fuel/battery acid/seawater, as opposed to plain ol' seawater.

It doesn't strike me that drying of the structures would be any more of a problem than it normally is for a wooden boat during an extended period ashore. proper support of the hull and the best possible ventilation are always key.

Simply put however, it's impossible to know the situation or to form any opinion or plan of action without salvage and survey. One thing is quite certain: salvage and proper restoration will be expensive!!

Regards -
Bill

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Sunday, July 27, 2003 12:20 PM

Right you are ~ He who loved to take his toys apart and then put them back together will enjoy the restoration of this vessel.

Indeed, as you say, many items of major importance will of necessity need be dealt with. Most all are quite familiar to me.... I have restored many destroyed vessels. As an insurance/appraisal/restoration/ purchase qualification surveyor, and major marina/shipyard owner/operator, and as a vessel owner; I have restored vessels which have been holed, beached for months, have collided with other vessels, piers, pilings and seabed configurations.... been dis-masted at sea, capsized and turtled, blown ashore by gale and tropical storms of intensity and duration; actually replaced an entire 14 feet of bow on a 65 footer which had collided during race with another, removing the bow as though done so with a meat cleaver!

Never, though, a vessel of wood which had been immersed for 40 days or longer.

Your concerns, while aptly put, and well stated, are the basics. I am interested in this one specific which seems to hound me day and night.

I know one thing.... someone else wants the re-wiring task! Last one of those I did drove me nuts! (short drive)!

While I am aware that a total restoration, or even partial recovery of a vessel such as this is an extensive project; my focus is on the "saturation" angle.

If a fir planked deck, saturated with water, (not just wet, mind you, but somewhat water-logged), which is joined to an Iroko bulwark and hull, is exposed to sun during dry-out.... will not the drying times of the two woods be different? Will not the heat and drying rapidity result in deformation of joinery?

Take a wooden box, of ....oh.....mahogany, and with a plywood bulwark in the middle, immerse it for 40 days.... place it then on a black table in the tropical sun for a month. The seams will warp, the joinery will deform, and the box will literally fall apart. The pieces will be mis-shapen, warped, and deformed.

The same box, only underwater a week, will dry nicely, be not deformed, and require just refinishing cosmetic coatings.

If you wish to understand more of this topic, and the specific vessel in question, visit the following link:

http://www.janice142.com/SOS/Barbarossa.htm

Standard concerns you have stated are considered therein, as well as various methodology re: recovery and restoration. Seabed and other environmental issues are addressed within as well.

Oh..... to address the battery acid consideration..... and at the same time a contributing factor to her foundering: her entire battery bank was removed, sold, and she was left at the mercy of a leaking stuffing box.... which the same wayward soul who sold her batteries left unattended. This while at anchor, and with full knowledge of others in the anchorage. These others, by the way, also watched her slowly fill with water, settle lower in the water, and finally sink. While no attempt was made to rescue her, much effort was volunteered to the looting of her after she was down.

This issue I intend to address more completely at a later date. The issue of anchorages, and the "sailors" who "live" in them. Such "address" will be not spoken with subtlety nor diplomacy!

Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003

From: Bill
Sent: Sunday, July 27, 2003 3:45 PM

As you indicated, my concerns deal with only the basics of the situation. That is all I can do from where I sit. However, I do agree with you and your concerns about "drying out." They are warranted, though I can't tell you what to expect. I've not dealt with a salvage and restoration attempt on a wooden vessel that has been down for more than 9 days - and in my particular case I was the surveyor for underwriters. After 9 days and a few hours in 350 feet of the tropical Atlantic, she was beginning to break-up and dig her hole in the sand. She was written off as a total loss, the wreck abandoned to the ocean floor. When I mentioned in my response to your post that "drying-out shouldn't be too different than any other blah, blah, blah......" I was of course speaking in broad generalities. And if you're curious as to why underwriters would try to bring a yacht back from 350 feet it was because fraud was a factor.

Yes, more than likely, the behavior of the Iroko and Fir in a drying sun will be different, and it probably will cause some problems. How bad will it be? How long will it take? Who can say? Obviously, monitoring such things would be a vital part of the resurrection. Further, there are the unknown materials, including all or any of the various composites and veneers that are likely a part of her interior. They too, will behave differently when drying.

Still though, an obvious point is she must survive the salvage and haulout before drying can begin.

Thanks for the link to the site. What a shame.

Bill

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Monday, July 28, 2003 3:44 AM

I once, when tooling down the Cross Bronx Expressway in my hot-rod 475hp 'Vette one fine day.... spied another 'Vette parked under an overpass in the opposite lanes, hood up and owner exasperated.

Made myself a mental note to return via the same route so as to lend a hand. Only out for a quick hour or so run from Wanaque to City Island, check the yawl, and back.

As I powered back across the Cross... I saw again the red 'Vette. Slid in behind her to a stop. All that remained was her frame and body..... almost the whole body. Engine, tranny, differential, tail section, doors, T-Tops, dash, seats, wheels, tires and mirrors too... gonzo.

Damn..... what a drag. Thought I.......

Yet in some way it seemed understandable, or even acceptable.

I've had many a romance with sports cars. Healys, MG's, Triumphs, Jags, and even a Rolls (V-8) ...... many Vettes and many muscle cars..... 442....GTO....Shelby Cobra...

Also have had lust affairs with HD Cycles... Panheads, Shovels....... Jock & Suicide...

Even a fling with an aerobatic hot aircraft and one strange hovercraft. A few stock cars, and a drag strip doozy! All at one time or another the focus of my fickle meandering heart.

Yet in all thought and in all feeling, nothing ... none of it... not even the hottest landing, or the car that went almost 200 ... not even flying on fire and airborne over the backside of turn two at Samsula ~ nope.......

That time when my ol' Pan Chopper lost her footing on an Arizona Canyon road..... 150 feet of mesquite and rock at a 75 degree pitch ..... close... but still nope....

Even when our chopper ran out of air at near 12,000 feet in the Wasatch.... of the rails and skiing the culoirs.... very close, very close...... yet still not just quite~

Not just quite the same as those time a'sea..... all those times a'sea..... very much the different thing altogether.

Never close to nights of black moon, rails down, gale blowin', running head to the wind toward the north.... nope. Different thing altogether. Close, but apart.

Nothing then I can bring to mind does compare nor is similar to.... or as vibrant, as deep as, or as real as... my appreciation for a vessel of the sea, and the sea itself.

So it is with earnest pen in hand, and with all sincerity, I say the following:

The demise of one wooden schooner of Indonesian design and build may seem of rather little importance to many.

Truly, given the grand scheme of things US, it really is just that: of little importance.

I once became involved with another schooner, of over 100 ton, of infamous background and origin. She had been designed and constructed in a German U-Boat Yard for implementation as a wartime missile smuggler. Warbase to warbase runs disguised as a private yacht. Her decks were unbelievably stout to bear the enormous weight, her hull was triple planked of mahogany, 3" thick planking, ... she carried a U-Boat diesel as her propulsion. She was over a hundred feet and fast under sail.

Captured by the British, traded to the Americans, bartered and bandied about, plying the Caribbean as a charter and dive vessel, finally to fall into the hands of one whose real life, in the end, superceded his dream. She was last known offered for purchase in the late 90's ... the asking price had halved in two years. Her diesel had been removed, and the replacement CAT sold off to defray berth fees. Her rig, although renewed, was incomplete. Connecticut was her river berth home.

Years later I listened (something I practice often) to a lad tell a tale of a schooner he was trying to buy. The description sounded familiar and then it became very clear that he was speaking of the very same craft. Her price had again been halved. She was yet still in New England and afloat in her berth. She had endured severe storm and still stood fast.

As I was about to engage the lad with questions of my own.... he began making it clear that his interest in the vessel was not that of a sailor. Her wooden hull and her decks were worth a small fortune, or so he said; he would triple his money selling her off by the linear foot of plank.

I walked silently away in absolute disgust.

It has been a few years now since that day. During which time I have taken many vessels to sea. Some voyages were prosperous, some were not. All well and good.

Yet I remain with an overwhelmingly intangible feeling of guilt, after some fashion or another, not comprehensible, yet readily discernible as such. Guilt borne of an inability to have omnipotent success in saving all craft. Of standing by as a vessel is lost.

Possibly there is a moral within these ramblings. Possibly there is not.

Yet I do remain disheartened each time I witness such an event.

While the loss of a fine vessel at sea may be likened to the death of a

Varangian Warrior in Battle..... Glorious & Honourable~

They ... to me, speak of man's lack of compassion, when compassion is lacking.

Lack of love, when love is required. Absence of effort, when effort is desired.

And most of all... such events serve to remind me of the myriad flaws of man himself.

Bah..... utter nonsense~ some may say.

Just a damn boat, others will allow.

No big deal many will so think.

Not quite so. Say I.

I once found a weathered, battle scarred, forlorn and forgotten Quarterhorse mare out near Ruidoso. She stood alone in her enclosure. She responded to neither sound nor movement. Her owner claimed she was worthless, troublesome, difficult to care for and too costly. He had not exercised her nor ridden her in almost a year.

She was destined for the slaughterhouse.

I struck a deal and left with the mare.

Seven months later, with nothing more than a bundle of effort, new tack, and six months of hard riding.... she became a West Texas barrel racing champion. Then we rode fence for a ranch of some 600,000 acres. She still roams those ranges, with her friends, snortin' and prancing across the red prairie, with pleasure at everything she hears and almost everything she sees.

I have not seen her for years, but she reminds me often to continue to dream.

And so I do.

From: Robin Engel
Sent: Monday, July 28, 2003 5:43 AM

While the Cross Bronx Expressway distracted me, ever so slightly, from the core if Sea Wolf's message, I feel something like the Driver that did not stop, to assist a lady in need.

I wish to assure all, that Sea Wolf's oratory on this fine Indonesian Schooner rang my bell from the very beginning. However, being virtually on the other side of the world left me at a bit of a disadvantage to muster the proper amount of energy needed to do my part in this rescue plan.

I recall the day about 3 or 4 years ago, when my present 78 yo Captain, Haji Salamuddin, lost his 500ton Pinisi Schooner, on the reef in front of the village of Bira, South Sulawesi. This massive vessel was promptly moved to the beach after her steering gear failed and she sat there on Pantai Luhu untill she finally disappeared after about 3 years. He never seemed to remorse over her loss. Today at 78 years of age, he often refers to his many years of running cargo to Surabya, Makassar and Sorong in Irian (today known as Papua) as great adventures and still has life long friends in all of Indonesia's many ports of call. May be Indonesian vessel have a different fate in their lives. His vessel Sinar Jaya, we picked apart as firewood of which much still remains under his own house and those of all his friends.

Don't be sad about the lost of any Indonesian Schooner, the art of their construction still is alive and well here in The Republic of Indonesia.

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2003 9:05 AM

Mathew Ryan:
Re: Your stated proposal for the refloat and/or recovery of the Schooner KLM BARBAROSSA:

Your inquiry regarding the Schooner Barbarossa is one which will require considerable time and effort to address with any degree of sincerity. I suggest your response to this brief communique include a proposed time/date of rendezvous, here in Key West, and within a time frame most potentially productive for the both of us. To facilitate such: (phone number removed) as an alternative to e-transmission, if you so desire.

As follows: If you desire to handle the matter entirely yourself, I am amenable to simply passing on the documents I have which will allow you to gain title to, and possession of the Schooner now lying foundered adjacent to Wisteria Island, also commonly referred to as Christmas Tree Island, in Key West Harbor; at an approximate lat/long of: 24 33.9N / 81 48.6W.

While several local resident individuals, two businesses operating in Key West, and a Web Designer in Pensacola have contributed greatly of their time, effort, and funds, (one such individual becoming injured while diving on her keel to inspect damage), none have claim to or have desire to lay claim to the vessel in question.

Her original owner has abandoned the vessel, leaving me with the last current registration, her US Documentation Papers, and her most recent prior ownership history. In have his signed statement to that effect, notarized and duly witnessed, currently in my possession. I also have her original ownership papers, her documentation of origin, design, and original owner; including the history of her construction, and subsequent shipping to the United States from Indonesia.

To facilitate your research: Barbarossa Incident #: 6/26/03 #9937 as listed with FWC Monroe County. {Initiated by myself}

I am able to provide you with quotes from various sources for her refloat (commercially), as well as methods by which her recovery may be attempted privately. Her cost of haul and storage during restoration, as well as an anticipated overall cost of restoration and survey {restored}, and her then anticipated market appraisal value, and concomitant replacement cost.

You will be well advised to research thoroughly your proposed plan, and to seek legal advice as to potential personal liability were you to acquire ownership of this foundered vessel.

Once again, I am able to provide you with such data, excluding, of course, legal counsel or representation.

My interest in the Schooner Barbarossa has been philanthropic, romantic, and none other than that which any true seafaring man might find himself in the throes of, having been privy to the demise of such a craft, and as well: asked to assist.

I stand at the ready to assist, if such is so requested of me, to advise {rather pedantically~as well I am known for}, and to applaud your efforts; if indeed they be founded well in sincerity, honesty, and most importantly: a desire to see a once gracious Lady of the Sea return to her element.

I had composed a scenario by which Schooner KLM Barbarossa might become a welcome addition to the Fleet of the Conch Republic Schooners; thus becoming further of intrinsic value to the community and even more importantly; to our youth.

If such may be of interest to you, and amenable to your projected project as fruition becomes within realistic grasp..... feel free to inquire of such.

I remain, therefore: at your service~

From: Mark Ryan
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003

Thank you for your prompt email and all of the information it contained!

I want to briefly share with you how exciting, yet at the same time...daunting, an experience like the one ahead can and will be. I am certain that you are just as excited at the restoration of her as I am, maybe even more than I.

1. Time frame: at your convenience...I work from 7:00 am to 5:00pm...Monday...Friday....I am available from 5:00pm until 10:00pm any day of the week to meet with you....or on Saturday or Sunday anytime.

2. I am absolutely interested in acquiring the documents from you to properly register her so I can begin her restoration

3. I am also very interested in all documents associated with the vessel. i.e. origin, design, and history

4. Also, all contact information relevant to refloating and restoration.

5. I would very much appreciate any and all of your advice and input now and continuing throughout the restoration.

6. My immediate concerns are:

a. how and why she sank
b. remedy that problem
c. getting her floating again ASAP to prevent any additional unwanted deterioration, theft, vandalism.
d. cleaning and itemizing exactly what needs to be restored ...how and when
e. engine restoration ASAP to prevent total loss of motor due to corrosion, rust
f. begin trying to track down parts that have been stolen off of her...wheel, gearing for steering

In conclusion:

These are some of my thoughts that i have been considering over the past few weeks while contemplating taking over this labor of love. Please call me and leave message as to what time is good for you to meet.

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003

Mr. Ryan:

In response to your post of earlier; and the questions, statements, and intentions therein indicated: I am more than willing to act as consultant to your endeavor. I will provide greater detail as time passes, and your interest is proven sincere.

I will now take immediate steps to assure your success, and create an environment within which you may successfully continue with what you profess to have decided is a laudable goal.  Do advise if this is amenable to, and within the parameters of, your intended plan of action.

Fruition may be realized with greater ease and more tremendous reward than you have the experience to now envision. You have though, in my opinion, begun with the correct mindset and with an attitude which most well becomes a true sailor.

I may be able to create a scenario by which action may commence as early as this coming Monday. I will now, with your approval, begin the level of communication with principal parties and government agencies prerequisite to the task at hand. This, of course, will require a degree of disclosure of proprietary information relative to the party proposed as the "salvor", thus; your explicit permission to do so must be forwarded to me immediately.

Here then is a start for you.....

http://www.janice142.com/SOS/Barbarossa.htm

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003

M.Ryan:

As indicated in earlier communique: I have taken immediate action. I thus honour your request:

Updates as of this moment: 1550 hrs Cayo Hueso 10.16.03
Haul facility contacted and responds favourably to proposed haul after refloat, and amenable to facilitating restoration project. {This is the yachtyard which I had earlier arranged logistical requisites with for such recovery.}

Salvage Master contacted and indicates willingness to break away one crew {of several} to begin immediately a refloat and maintenance of watertight integrity. Continues to indicate a 10 day time frame after refloat to delivery at yachtyard for haul. {Also original Salvage Master of choice} {Be advised: Salvage Crew enroute Cayo Hueso from Cayo Largo upon my request and verification of "salvor" sincerity only}

Indications are as follows: Refloat within 3 days. Haul within 14. Security will be maintained throughout this 2 week time frame to preclude additional of un-anticipated further damage to the vessel.

• Original ship's Binnacle is available upon request.
• Ship's documents ready for transfer.
• Parties attempting to locate looted gear are to begin process within days. {local sailors}
• FWC Monroe County: contacted and apprised of recent developments.
• USCG Group Key West: notified.
• Marine Projects Director - Marine Resources: notified.
• DVP Duty Officer FWC: notified.
• Web Hostess consulted and requested to reopen website to updates and continued input.

From: Robin Engel - SongLine Cruises
Sent: Thursday, October 16, 2003 8:00 PM

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003,

What is this update ?
and Yes, I am still watching, in my busy schedule !

Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 6:18 AM
To: kim.dipre@fwc.state.fl.us; brenda.groat@fwc.state.fl.us

Subject: Schooner KLM BARBAROSSA

Lieutenant Kim Dipre:

I am pleased to inform you of recent events which appear favourable for the recovery and restoration of the foundered Schooner: BARBAROSSA. Incident # 6/26/03 #9937

For the last several days I have been in contact with one Matthew Ryan, of Key West, who indicates a desire to begin the recovery of this vessel. I shall forward appropriate documentation to Mr. Ryan upon our meeting this week, and copy same to your offices.

I will act as consultant to Mr. Ryan in his attempt to recover the Schooner. He has been apprised of your instructional. Recovery may commence as early as this coming Monday: 10/20/03.

From: Robin Engel
Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 11:40 AM

Capt. thanks for the update, a digital photo history of the next steps would be good to see.

I will try again once we have same to re-try to involve the Indonesian Consul General in Houston, for some PR bennies!

Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 2:00 PM

To: Matt Ryan

For your records Matthew...... the following.

{By the way, Jeff had indicated to me earlier that he has her binnacle.}

Kindly inform me of the name of the local with whom you are attempting to co-ordinate her refloat. If you so desire, I will now order to "stand-down" the professional Salvage Master and his crew which is at stand-by for this project.

Be once again advised that I suggest strongly you research the position of personal liability you will place yourself in upon acquiring this foundered vessel. Your efforts, as said, are laudable, yet you must cautiously consider each and every step of the proposed recovery, that you do not find yourself in water well over your head, and with your feet embedded in clinging silt at the seabed.

Be cautious as well..... here in the Cayo Hueso sailor's community, that the one who offers assistance may not be one without hidden agenda, or of more grand vocalization than great experience in matters such as this.

Caveat Emptor. Do your homework well prior to jumping off the Mallory Pier.

Sent: Friday, October 17, 2003 2:33 PM
From Ryan to NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003.........

"..................thank you again for all of the information that you have sent me! I have reading about her for the last few hours. The amount of information and care in which you have documented all progress and failures is tremendous and your efforts are sincerely appreciated and you should be applauded in your efforts!!!!!

The information was a little much to digest all in one sitting however I did look over most of the information...wow...you have done your homework.

I want to reassure you that my intentions are 100% sincere. However, I want to proceed at my comfort level...our first order of business is to transfer ownership of the vessel before I commit to any salvage operation.

I would also like to verify that there are no outstanding liens on her, regardless of the fact that she was left for dead on the ocean floor.

We need to meet at your convenience for transfer of registration....the faster I get a clean title, document, registration...the faster I can begin to refloat her

I have contacted a local gentleman who helped to refloat the Barbarossa just a few years back and also helped in rebuilding/tuning her diesel motor after being sunken for 10 days...he is very excited to help in her recovery!

He also mentioned to me that he believes that he can help to recover the helm, gearing, wheel and possibly any other stolen items...this is very exciting to get back original items

Again I would like to summarize my immediate plan:

1. acquire registration and proper documents associated with Barbarossa

2. refloat her within a reasonable budget (a lot of sweat-equity)

3. immediately have the motor serviced and possibly rebuilt to prevent rust from ruining the diesel motor

4. simultaneously, a thoughtful and thorough cleaning and ventilating of her, above and below decks, possibly protect deck from intense sundry...with tarps ???

5. she would theoretically be a: mostly sound floating vessel at anchor with proper registration with bilge pumps installed and working under the care of a new responsible owner excited for her restoration

These five steps to me are the most logical first steps we must take to begin this most unbelievable journey....what an adventure this will be!!!

Call me ASAP to setup meeting....anytime this weekend will be good for me...we could even take my boat out and take a look at her up close after our business is completed.

Thanks again for your continued help:

p.s. While I was reading one of your letters on the website I was taken back at one in particular that you were talking of her possible restoration and you wrote ..."labor of love"...

In my reply to your first email, I used that same _expression to describe what lies ahead.....

I am sure that we both have great expectations for the new Barbarossa! ............"

Sent: Saturday, October 18, 2003 7:24 AM
From RYAN to NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003:

"...I appreciate your concerns about me hastily making a decision to move forward with the restoration. This decision has been a calculated one. I have been thinking about the idea of raising this vessel and restoring her from the first day I saw her.. back in July. Every weekend that my girlfriend and I would head out to go sprear-fishing we would motor thru the harbor and I would glance over to my dismay and continue to see her still down. Recently, (6 weeks ago) my curiosity got the best of me and I had to snorkel on her to see why she was still laying there with no help in sight. When I dove on her I was extremely surprised to find that she was still in great condition and as far as I could tell she was worthy of floating again...with minimal effort. Then with speaking with various local sailors my suspicions were confirmed and it was simply a story of neglect that led to her demise.

Most recently, I contacted the USCG and was directed to FWC to gather information on the boat to claim her. FWC sent an officer to meet with me to drive out and try to uncover any markings, registration, name...to help the officer begin his search for the last known owner to proceed with claiming the vessel as abandoned. Upon our arrival and anchoring next to her we were approached by the water taxi guy. He was extremely helpful with the schooner's name and a contact phone number for Jeff.

Long story short Arnaud Girard owner of the Key West Water Taxi had actually raised her 2-3 years earlier when the previous owner had neglected her before and she had sunk. Arnaud was successful in reviving her diesel motor with minimal costs. I believe this gentleman is sincere in his story and his ability to help us raise her again. He has relayed to me that he among many other sailors are very upset at the current condition of her. The bottom line is that this guy is interested in helping and wants to be compensated at what I feel is a reasonable amount and I am interested in using his expertise simply because he has hands on experience with this vessel.

So, I would appreciate delaying the calling of any other resources until further notice...."

Sent: Saturday, October 18, 2003 3:23 PM
From NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 to Mathew Ryan

Then tell me how Monsieur Girard intends to raise her.
A rather simple question.
What resources has he.
Who shall be his crew.
What is the "reasonable amount".

Be advised that once you assume ownership, you become liable for her entirely; and that were your plans to fail, were you to create any environmental threat in any way, your liability would begin at, {and I quote FWC & Marine Resources}, $20,000.00. Begin at; being the operative two words.

I am of the opinion, if as you said to me when we first met, you "have deep pockets", that you contract a professional Salvage Master for the task. Immediately upon refloat have her towed to a yachtyard and hauled. Then you may begin cutting corners, being frugal, pinching pennies. Then you will have all the time you need to relax. Then your out of pocket, or rather: deficit spending mode, will be no more than near 400+ monthly.

Had you been of alacrity: I have such crew maintaining a "stand-by" readiness as we key back and forth. The yachtyard is in accord with such proposal as well.

Were Monsieur Arnaud...et al.... grand intentions notwithstanding; to become injured in any way, or any of his subordinates, or anyone even slightly associated with the effort orchestrated by you ~ or the vessel herself, or any one of the tenders, dinghys, rafts or surfboards to become entangled with, or collide with any other vessel even slightly..... or should she loose her watertight integrity at anytime thereafter, founder, drift into a seaway, or become a liability to anyone or anything......

You shall then be entirely liable to all parties who may claim damages. Period.
No if this, and that... or buts.

Now, in all fairness to Monsieur Arnuad, whom I have yet the pleazure to meet, and whose intentions may be honest and stout of heart, whose life's experiences may be quite rambling, rather fantastic and very interesting, who by the very nature of his enterprise as entrepreneur Le Water Taxi seems an interesting fellow........he himself, I do believe, given the opportunity to answer honestly, will advise you similarly that have you the funds...... have you the "deep pockets prerequisite to success insofar as the Barbarossa Project is concerned ~ She should be recovered professionally, immediately removed to the yachtyard, and secured "on the hard". For certain such procedure would facilitate his "rebuild" of Barbarossa's auxiliary propulsion system.

No true sailor, nor any skilled craftsman will ever recommend the shortcut or jury rig unless it is you, Ryan, who has indicated no other available course.

I suggest you allow Arnaud Girard the opportunity to prove his merit by simply asking the following question: ~ I intend to have a Pro-Salvor refloat her and remove her immediately to the yachtyard which has agreed to her haul and safekeeping, will you, Sir, agree to rebuild her main engine at such facility? As well as other tasks which I may be in need of? ~

His answer will tell all. Indeed.

You need be advised that Cayo Hueso abounds with those who seek, much as the Remora seeks the tail section of the Great White, to ride with those who are more capable than they themselves of substantial gain, more able to provide a source of sustenance; in the hope of locating a grand scrap or two.

Worst case scenario?
While diving on the wreck {for that is what she is}, a man becomes entangled in debris.... he drowns. Another jumps in to attempt rescue and he is injured. While the rescue attempt is taking place and confusion runs rampant....  one small tender/tug/dinghy/diveboat drifts/powers/floats into the hull of an adjacent craft.... another finds its way into the seaway where current runs swift.... and a vessel underway collides with it. You, Sir, will spend the next 40 years digging yourself from the financial wreckage which was once a lofty goal and romantic dream.

Granted; the aforementioned scenario may seem extreme. So do this. Reduce it to any simple single event, {of which there will be many}, and consider that the FWC will cite you for any violation of Navigational Rule which may apply to such. You will find yourself with a criminal record for offenses as slight as "no lookout".

The professional Salvage Master & his entire crew, his craft, his gear, his complete operation from start to finish is covered entirely by his insurers, and entirely excludes you from any liability whatsoever.

No matter what may happen. Period.
The vessel herself is guaranteed recovery, or you pay not a dime.
Your salvage fee is placed in escrow until recovery is complete.

The vessel becomes a liability to no-one during her recovery and she then is removed from the sea to a safe cradle in a professional yachtyard where correct restoration may begin. Again, not a liability to you from that point forward.

Her restoration may then begin with professional guidance, certified technicians, and/or yourself accomplishing tasks which you may be, or learn to be, adept at.

No vessel, seagoing by design, and in need of the degree of repair requisite in the case of the schooner, should be entrusted to the methodology of the sort found in anchorages such as the one she foundered in. You need only look at the status of the vessel of the craftsman himself to determine his true capabilities.

There is no "easy" "fix".... no shortcut, nor "it'll be good enough", which will be your safe passage when you finally set to sea. Alone or otherwise.

The jury rigged vessel becomes the greatest liability of any sea, and to all who may encounter her. And woe be he who sails a'sea with jury rig & allows crew to board.

Woe be he indeed.

With regard to: ".... he among many other sailors are very upset at the current condition of her...."

I wonder at the veracity of such a claim! Keep in mind that he, as well as all the "sailors" in the anchorage in which she foundered, watched her very slowly fill with water and finally sink from a drip-leak in her stuffing box. These same "sailors" were well aware that her batteries had been removed by the misguided soul who was living aboard and sold... marine batteries? loaded onto a dinghy? sold to whom? Go figure the math...... Then after she slowly sank she was literally  ripped apart as these same "sailors" looted and vandalized her as she lie dying on the bottom. Granted, not all took part in this grand activity. Yet any single one might have stopped such from taking place.

Had I a vessel under my command at time of such rape, nonesuch would or could have taken place, of that you may be well certain!

Now it does seem rather off the wall that these "gentlemen of the sea" are so dearly upset at her demise and rush to your side with cries of: "let me assist!".

You, Sir, are not from the Keys. You, by your own statement to me....which means you more than likely have indicated such to others....claim to have "deep pockets". I can not do other than wonder if it is more an interest in the contents of your pockets these "sailors" concern themselves with than the fate of the Schooner Barbarossa. Many a well intended Yankee has been taken well and fast to the local {Conch} cleaners by the guile of our peculiar breed of local "sailor".

Keep as well in mind: Key West was founded and thrived upon the notion that the infamous "Wreckers" were a breed of cat somewhat akin to the capitalist. Indeed. the Federal Government allowed them to thrive until International disgust indicated action be taken to forever preclude such activities on American soil.

While many became concerned and indeed assisted me in my initial attempts to create an interest in KLM Barbarossa, and solicit one such as yourself who might recover her, {all townsfolk & none sailors who live aboard their vessels at the anchorage where she foundered}, only Capt. Picht came forward. He was injured while diving on her, yet still asked for no compensation, no fee..... he nursed his rather severe wounds and paid out of pocket for his own recovery. Capt.Picht is indeed a true sailor and seaman.

I have spent countless hours with this project, as has the web-designer who maintains the site, and as have many.... never anticipating a dime in "bounty"..... all the while no one else coming forward with offers of any sort, as well known as this effort was throughout the community, and most certainly amongst those "sailors" who claim to be "upset" and now rush to you with offers to assist, which are of course accompanied by outstretched hands....palms upward, smiles beaming.

These same so called concerned individuals who live aboard their craft in the anchorage, and are daily involved with the waterfront, have idly watched {in some cases} and looted {in others} the very same vessel they now have such wonderful desire to save.

Harsh? Perhaps. Realistic? Absolutely.
Put two and two together. You may come up with a quick five using the following equation: 200bucks divided by the number of liveaboard "sailors"... or even just by they who have made you offers. Then add the professed skill level they indicate to you in effort to have you accept their "help"..... add in the value of the vessel herself.... subtract the cost of her refloat.... what do you come up with? Why is she still lying on the bottom? I think you may get my drift?

If you are sincere, as you so claim to be, and if you have the financial stability to undertake such a project, then you must have the common sense which would clearly be a standard of your lifestyle.

The Barbarossa is a vessel which has now been submerged for nearly five months.

If you seriously intend to restore her, then you must approach the task with the intelligence which has allowed you reasonable success in your financial affairs thus far. Done in such a fashion you have an opportunity to see your goals reach fruition.

Done otherwise....well, young Sir~ you then set yourself up for the fall of a lifetime.

Think clearly, bring your cannons to bear only when you are sure of excellent target, keep your cutlass well whetted, your gold well hidden......... Trust not any single man, and beware the cabal.......

Do what is right for the Good Ship Barbarossa..... she will reward you well for your efforts.... for many years to come.

She has been plagued since her original Master gave her over, by rather the seedy sort of sailormen the Seven Seas have had to offer her.

Be you not yourself one of these.

Here for you are those who are "in the loop"..... the bureaucracy is rather confusing often, in that the left hand does no necessarily know what the right is up to. These, then are they with whom I began this "adventure"...and who are rather the higher levels of hierarchy within "City Hall".... Don Quixote never knew how actually simplistic his battling of windmills was......

FWC: 289.2320 Lt. Kim Dipre: x 112
USCG MSO Marathon/KW: 289.1601
USCG Group Miami: 305.535.8704/8700
Officer Vincente Lopez DVP: 289.2320 x327
Kim McGee: Marine Projects Director - Marine Resources
Barbarossa Incident #: 6/26/03 #9937
Monroe County/Key West : 295.3911
Richard Jones/ Mooring Fields, markers.............

To: Admiral NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003, Conch Republic Navy
From: Secretary General Conch Republic

Re: Ryan

"..YOU MAY WISH TO REMIND HIM THAT WHILE NO ONE HAS BEEN KILLED OR EATEN BY SHARKS IN THE WATERS OF THE KEYS.......................

MANY HAVE SUCCUMBED TO THE RAVAGES OF THE LAND SHARKS......"

Sent: Tuesday, October 21, 2003 9:38 PM
From Ryan to NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003:

".... as I have already indicated to you, I have been thinking about it seriously for the last few days. You posed some good points that we have been thinking over and have come to some conclusions.

If I have not already mentioned to you, this will be a joint venture between myself and two of my brothers. I have been forwarding all messages to them for their review and input. They also share in my, your, our, excitement in her restoration and ultimately her return to the open seas. I will be acting as our agent in all transactions pertaining to documentation, registration etc. Their involvement in her restoration will be a financial one and then ultimately sharing in her voyages. They have both excited in seeing her raising, but I will get to that a little later..............

We feel that you are right in your thinking that the most responsible and safest method of raising her is to contract a professional company with insurance and most importantly resources and knowledge in these types of salvages. We also agree that the idea of tugging her to a safe harbor and putting her on the hard is the best thing to do. These two phases are absolutely the right and best beginning of her restoration. However....

As you have reminded me of the fact that I am a Yankee and most likely will be taken to the Conch Cleaners somewhere along the way over these next few months; I would like to proceed as follows. I would like to be sent contact information regarding both companies that you feel are best suited for our particular vessel. So, please send me all relevant information. I am interested in speaking with them in order to become a little more versed in the operation of her actual retrieval. I would also like to possibly travel out to her resting spot with the salvage master/company to show them first hand what is actually involved...................

>From earlier) My brothers would like to witness her raising if at all possible. For that matter, our entire family is getting excited at the task at hand. They have expressed an interest in taking advantage to the Thanksgiving holiday and possibly fly down. Either the previous weekend for raising just days before holiday or extended stay to be present and witness her raising the following week. There is my timeline budget. I would like to gain ownership and contract salvage company along with dry-dock facility by no later than Nov. 27 (at the latest). This gives us exactly five weeks and two days to square away the first two major steps in this project...............

Based on that information, please contact me ASAP to exchange documents, and secondly email contact information. Also, you had mentioned that you thought Jeff had her binnacle, does he? If so, does he have anything else that would be helpful?.......

Thanks again,
Matt

p.s. My girlfriend and I snorkeled on her on Sunday and she seems to get more and more appealing the more that we explore her! I was able to swim to companionway and peek in at the galley and head. I thought that I counted four berths? Two all the way forward where the forward mast is thru the deck, and two singles in the galley area? Does this sound right to you? or does she have more room than I was able to see from the surface? Also, some of her sails are folded and laying on the ocean floor, are these her only sails or do you know of more? What is the deal with the motorcycle tied to her starboard side? Although the cabin is a mess, garbage thrown about, old mattress, random items, I think that I have some vision of how beautiful she once was.

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 to Matt Ryan
Sent: Wednesday, October 22, 2003 12:03 AM

Matthew Ryan:

Re: Salvage Master

It is ludicrous for you to consider that your input is of any value whatever with regard to ~ "....show them first hand what is actually involved...." ~ Not likely. These seafaring men will consider you an impediment to the task at hand. On a daily basis these men are involved in the recuse of craft aground, craft foundered, craft in distress, craft sinking, craft afire, craft this & craft that. You will not be of any value whatsoever to the operation. You will be this, though: a liability. You will be in the way.

I applaud you and your girlfriend's efforts and interest in snorkeling to her cabin, down to her keel, and your descriptions of her attraction to you. Here in the Keys such activity is very well practiced by most who arrive. Yet few decide to recover the wrecks upon which they dive.

When the owner of a vessel requests that I bring her into a difficult port,  navigate her across great expanses of ocean, drive her through wild gales, sail her across the shoals of a reef in the dark of night, make a deadline on duration voyage, deliver her to a far off land, bring her home safely when she has become disabled, rescue her from neglect, refit her to enhance her value, survey her or appraise her realistic potential, rig her for global cruising, re-rig her for competition, or develop the logistics and methodology by which she might be recovered from 5 months of submersion after foundering from dastardly neglect; I have very little need of his opinion on the matter, his pointing out various details of great importance to him, or the myriad array of suggestions which may surely follow. I ask him to stand back, observe, retain and thus learn. No more ~ no less.

I have, as I said, spent innumerable hours in contact with each and every available marine salvage contractor in discussion re: BARBAROSSA.
The same holds true as to yachtyards for her haul/storage.

• I have each estimate from all who cared to bid.
• I have researched the credentials and capabilities of each.
• I have made my decision.
• I have contacted earlier this week the salvor I choose, and he, as I said earlier, has agreed to place a crew at my disposal for the task at hand almost immediately.
• I have contacted the yachtyard as well.... and that facility stands by also.

I also explained to you the financial arrangements.
If you are serious in this matter, then it is time to act.
Further procrastination is ridiculous.
Enough time has been wasted thus far.

I will, upon verification of your serious intent, allow you the benefit of the doubt, and turn over to you her ship's papers. Facilitate your legal acquisition of her, and forward you the entire method with which you may begin her restoration.

I will not, however, be a party to any further shenanigans, curious notions, malevolent conceptions, nor ill-advised and/or potentially hazardous approaches to the recovery of the Schooner KLM BARBAROSSA. Period.

For you to say to me that you wish to "save" her in one breath...then lay forth the idea that she should rest on the bottom for another month and a half in wait of some sort of family "party" or holiday..... I shake my head slowly and arch my brow in contempt.

I hereby authorize, for I have the legal authority to do so..... you to remove the sails which you say you have seen folded on the seabed near her keel. It is highly likely that an enterprising "Wrecker" has decided that in the dead of night he may thus acquire them with ease and stealth.

Her previous owner has said to me that he has her binnacle, yet I will not advise him, nor will he be likely inclined to hand such to you until your intent is well proven.

If, Sir, you are as serious as you claim to be.... have the financial status to do so... and your mind is made up to recover her.... then begin. Immediately.

I said to you that I would facilitate the recovery process to begin immediately.
As a matter of fact and record, such would have begun Monday, 10.20.03.

She would be readying as I key this, for transport to the yachtyard which is standing by to receive her.

All the ducks are in a row. Everyone knows what must be done and is in accord. This all as a result of my efforts.

I will not incur the wrath of those who have thus far spent their time and effort with me on this project, by suggesting they spend days and weeks chatting with you so you may "shop" for a choice of salvors, or yachtyards.

As I said, I will not be party to anything other than an absolute degree of sincerity in this matter.

Sent: Friday, October 24, 2003 1:58 PM
From: Ryan to NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003:

"... .... I agree further procrastination is ridiculous. I have been sincere from our very first meeting! We are ready to proceed....

Upon rereading my email I realize that I miswrote a sentence regarding salvage company see her first hand. Let me reiterate my idea: I would like to have the salvage company ride with me out to her and actually see her in her actual resting position and any other factors that they see will be relevant to her retrieval. I by no means meant to imply that I have more knowledge, or for that matter any knowledge in raising a boat.....

Let's meet ASAP to begin........ I will remove the sails from seabed ASAP........Matt Ryan....."

From: NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003
Sent: Saturday, November 01, 2003 4:08 AM

For those of you who have been following the tale of the Schooner Barbarossa over the last many months; there finally seems to be a positive note in this thus far tragic opera, which began its debut in June of this year~

During a meeting with Matt Ryan on the 29th of October, I turned over to him the packet of all ship’s papers as well as all information necessary to recover her safely from the seabed adjacent to Christmas Tree Island, here in Key West .

I have notified the FWC (Marine Patrol) Officer Lt. Dipre, who has been the continued liaison within the department, Blackbeard Tow & Salvage of Key Largo (the Salvage master with whom I had made initial contact to re-float her), and Peninsular Marine of Key West (the yacht yard originally chosen as the site for her hauling and storage during restoration).

All have agreed to act immediately upon Matt Ryan’s contact with them.

Matt has assured me that he intends to handle her recovery in a professional manner, and that he wishes to begin immediately.

Hopefully, and with a little luck, we shall once again soon see the beautiful Schooner Barbarossa returned to her home above the waves and flying with the winds here in Key West.

Then I shall wish her that which all along I have hoped she would once again experience:

Steep Seas & Howlin’Gales~

From: klabowterwoman
Sent: Saturday, November 01, 2003 1:38 PM

----just read the best news of the month November, or the year 2003!

Nice to watch some major efforts heading to a happy course.

Wishing good luck with the rescue action and everything else following to Matt Ryan and his whole family,Barbarossa inclusive now!

Congratulation to all they helped, cheers,I'm just drinking a glass if Imiglykos  (sweeet greek redwine) to you all!

And I never never had a single doubt about your best and unselfish intensions to help.

You can be a very satisfied NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 right now,ey?

Greetings from Greece
kbw

Sent: Sunday, November 02, 2003 5:37 AM
From: This just in from Ryan to NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003:

here are three pictures of the boat... one is looking back at Key West, the other 2 are self explanatory....................

I took them today while I was beginning to bring her back from the murky waters of the harbor that claimed her hull five months ago and I am continued to be surprised every time I snorkel on her. let me paint you guys a visual on what is going on under the water...there are ropes everywhere....covered in algae, the mainsail (furthest to the back) is torn and tattered but still attached to the the main boom (perpendicular to the mast) the jib sail (triangle sail in the very front ) is laying in a bunch on the seabed and looks to be ok but covered in algae, there is debris everywhere pots and pans, extension cords, gas grill range, moped tied to the starboard side (right) of the boat, dingy is still floating and attached to the boat, satellite dish attached to hull, inside of boat is full of debris...mattress, Panasonic stereo (component style),  tv tray stands, old metal green davits (supports for the dingy to hang off the back of the boat) are rusted and falling apart, the booms are floating free and dangerously banging into the hull with every wave that passes.

what I accomplished today:

1. removed davits from rear of boat
2. removed satellite from deck
3. removed moped from starboard side of boat
4. removed debris from deck of boat including stove, pots, pans, extension cords, garden hoses, misc. ropes
5. removed jib from seabed floor and brought aboard my own boat and the sail looks like it is in good shape
6. removed mainsail from boom and will remove from water next available time
7. secured mainsail boom to original pulley block to deck to prevent boom from bouncing around during wave action
8. secured foresail and jib booms to deck of boat using ropes in order to prevent booms from damaging boat any further
9. released dingy from boat and placed on Christmas tree island until able to properly dispose of
10. tightened up misc. lines that were dangling in the water and causing possible tangling hazards
11. secured top boom of foresail to the mainsail boom to prevent losing and causing damage by banging around

With just a few hours of effort and six dollars worth of cotton rope from Kmart we are slowly beginning to move forward.

Matt

NOTE TO Matt from web-hostess: Please forward those photos to me directly... Thank you.

NAME REMOVED, as per request 07 November 2003 is a sailor living in Key West, Florida and is an active participant in all efforts to raise Schooner Barbarossa.

Updates will posted as they are sent to me. I'm hosting the site in hopes that by bringing further attention to the magnificent Schooner Barbarossa, she may be saved.

Sailing vessels of this vintage and character deserve the best.