&sq=&lang=&file=File:RML_497_Sailing_in_Tor_Bay.jpg) RML 497, then known as MV The Fairmile, sailing on Tor Bay approaching Torquay Harbour in 2014
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| History | |
|---|---|
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Civil_Ensign_of_the_United_Kingdom.svg){kind=small} United Kingdom | |
| Name |
|
| Owner |
|
| Route | Torquay – River Dart |
| Builder | Southampton Steam Joinery Ltd |
| Launched | 1941 |
| In service | July 1942 |
| Refit | 1947, 2009 |
| Identification | IMO number: 8633906 |
| Status | Currently under restoration in Hartlepool |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Fairmile B motor launch |
| Type | Twin-screw motor vessel |
| Tonnage | 108 GRT |
| Length | 111.9 ft (34.1 m) LOA |
| Beam | 18.3 ft (5.6 m) |
| Draught | 4.6 ft (1.4 m)[1] |
| Decks | 2 |
| Propulsion | Twin Gardner 6LXB diesels |
| Speed | Originally 20 knots |
| Capacity | 175 passengers[2] |
RML 497 (Rescue Motor Launch number 497[3]) is a former Royal Navy Fairmile B motor launch from World War II. She was named Western Lady III on her entry to civilian service, as a passenger motor vessel for Western Lady Ferry Service. From 2009[4] to 2015, she operated as The Fairmile for Greenway Ferry on their day cruise route from Torquay and Brixham to Dartmouth and Greenway.[5] In May 2013, she was returned to her original wartime appearance. Torbay's "ferry wars" forced her removal from service,[6] and in December 2015, RML 497 was acquired by the National Museum of the Royal Navy.
- ^ "National Historic Ships Register". Retrieved 6 November 2009.
- ^ Hammar GP. Trip Out 2005/06, self-published, 2005
- ^ "Fairmile B – RML497 – Project". Greenway Ferry Pleasure Cruises. 19 April 2013. Retrieved 5 May 2013.
- ^ "Back in port – the 'Lady' who 'should never have left'". Torquay Herald Express. Retrieved 20 December 2015.
- ^ Boyfrom le, I. "Greenway Ferry". Simplon Postcards. Retrieved 6 November 2009.
- ^ "Torbay ferry wars scupper service". Torquay Herald Express. Retrieved 20 December 2015.