Helena is a historic Dutch steel barge, built in 1923 by W. Mulder in Stadskanaal. The vessel was originally named Verwisseling.
The vessel was previously converted for residential use and offers a large amount of interior space and many possibilities for a new owner looking for a characterful historic vessel to restore or convert according to their own plans.
Vessel details
- Year built: 1923
- Shipyard: W. Mulder, Stadskanaal, Netherlands
- Type: historic Dutch steel barge / Steilsteven
- Length: 20.76 m
- Beam: 4.18 m
- ENI number: 03040916
- Current name: Helena
- Original name: Verwisseling
- Engine: Bedford 6-cylinder diesel
Interior and accommodation
The vessel has previously been used as a houseboat and has a spacious interior. It includes a kitchen, living and sleeping areas, considerable storage space and a large accessible storage area below the floor. The vessel has new windows and window frames with double glazing.
There is currently no working shower or toilet. There is space to install these as part of a renovation.
The superstructure has an insulated roof with metal profile sheets. This is not the vessel's original historic roof. Its relatively simple construction also provides possibilities for alteration or replacement during restoration.
Engine and condition
The Bedford diesel engine was running when the vessel was purchased in 2023 and was tested at that time in forward, reverse and neutral. The engine has not been tested recently by the current owner, and therefore no guarantee is given regarding its present operating condition.
There is currently water in the engine room. There were several openings in the deck through which rainwater could enter. These have been temporarily sealed, after which the amount of incoming water decreased considerably. The exact cause and current technical condition should be assessed by the buyer.
The vessel visibly requires maintenance and restoration, including paintwork and parts of the deck and exterior. Helena is therefore offered as a restoration/project vessel in its current condition.
Historical vessel documentation, measurement records and previous inspection and hull-thickness reports are available.
A large 10 x 15 m tarpaulin is included with the vessel.
Important: berth not included
The current berth in Amsterdam is not included in the sale. The vessel must leave its current berth no later than 1 January 2027. The buyer is responsible for arranging a new berth and for any transport, inspections, certification or work required to move the vessel.
Helena may be of particular interest to someone looking for a spacious historic Dutch vessel for restoration, conversion into residential accommodation, a studio/workspace or another suitable use, subject to the regulations applicable at the vessel's future location.
Asking price: €40,000, negotiable.
Viewings by appointment in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Additional photographs and available historical and technical documentation can be provided to serious prospective buyers.
