If you compare current photographs of Lona III with those of five years ago the transformation is inconceivable. Over the years the Carpentier family have had staunch conviction and stamina to realize the restauration of a sailing yacht that many thought was only fit for landfill. She now is a true beauty of over one hundred years old.
The 7-ton cutter was designed in 1906 by Pain Clark for himself and built in Burnham-on-Crouch by William King and Sons. Pain’s Ranis and Lonas designs are very well known on the English East Coast.
Lona III was regarded as one of the fastest yachts of her time with good sea keeping qualities and comfortable below decks. She was later sold to Mr. R Manders. Lona III was raced with considerable success by her several owners, first on the river Crouch, later in Ireland and in Scotland, and then back again on the Crouch. (Cruising Hints by F.B. Cooke 1928).
After more than one hundred years Lona III was re-launched after a complete restoration, including the installation of an engine.
More information on the Lona III website.