Master shipbuilder Gunnar Marel Eggertsson is looking for ways to have Gullborgin renovated, a ship that belonged to the most famous captain of Iceland’s Westmann Islands, Binni í Gröf.
Eggertsson saved the ship from being destroyed at the end of last year, which has been decaying in Reykjavík harbor for almost two years. Fréttabladid reports.
According to Eggertsson, Gullborgin will most likely be towed to Reykjanesbaer on Reykjanes peninsula, where it will be restored. It may also be taken overseas to be renovated in a foreign harbor, he said.
Either way, it is best to get the ship moving soon, while the strongest ocean current of the year, the Góustraumur, passes Iceland’s shores, as it makes it easier for the ship to float, Eggertsson explained.
Benóný Fridriksson, aka Binni í Gröf (1904-1972), was known for being an excellent captain and fisherman. He steered many ships harbored in the Westmann Islands, but was most famous for his achievements on Gullborgin.
Binni í Gröf was chosen the Catch King of the Westmann Islands in 1954 and kept the title for six fishing seasons in a row. He was honored with the title on many other occasions in his lifetime.
In 1971 Binni í Gröf received the Falcon Medal for his work, an honorary medal from the State of Iceland, given to those who further the advantage and reputation of Iceland.
Click here to read about the renovation of another legendary ship.
