Abels Shipbuilders

In addition to boat building, the company branched out into architectural sculptures, tidal energy and marine restoration, but closed in 2016.

[1][3] Founded in 1980 by David Abels, the company took over part of the Albion Dockyard formerly occupied by Charles Hill & Sons who went out of business in 1977.

The company built ferries from at least 1985, when the 60-passenger Island Princess was delivered to Scottish owners, and she still operates as a whale watching boat off the Isle of Mull.

In 2001 an exact copy of Maid of Poole (Abel's design) was commissioned by Brownsea Island Ferries to be built by Halmatic in Portsmouth.

However, in 2016–17, the uncompleted hull was completed as a medical ferry for Vine Trust in South America, under the name Forth Hope.

Ranging from 42 to 71gt and 15.8 to 16.5 m (52 to 54 ft) in length, they are 10 knots (19 km/h; 12 mph) ships operated by the Agency's National Marine Service.

The Orkney Ferries vessel MV Eynhallow departing at Tingwall . Built in 1987 by Abels for 11 cars and 95 passengers.
Coastal Guardian in Fleetwood , 2008.
The Clyde Clipper catamaran fitting out at Abels during February 2009. Capacity is up to 250 passengers.
A model of the Medway Queen . The ship was rebuilt at Abels under Heritage Lottery Funding.
Previous Bristol Shipyards with Abels Shipbuilders highlighted in part of the former Charles Hill & Sons and Hilhouse Albion Yard.