Ships relocate: Whaling vessel RAU IX transitions to fresh mooring in Bremerhaven
The historic whaling ship RAU IX, built in the 1930s, has recently been moved from the Museum Harbor to the New Harbor at the German Maritime Museum. The vessel, initially designed to obtain whale oil for the production of margarine, soap, washing powder, and machine oil, is now set for major repairs at a shipyard within the next two years.
Despite being in good overall condition, the RAU IX requires cleaning, sanding, and recoating before it can undergo the necessary renovations. Dr. Lars Kröger, the scientific coordinator of the Museum Harbor, acknowledges that the wooden deck presents a significant challenge during the restoration process.
The RAU IX has an illustrious history, having served as a minesweeper post-war and being handed over to Norway in 1948, along with the WALTER RAU. Since 1970, it has been part of the museum fleet and was a popular attraction for guests before the Deutsches Schiffahrtsmuseum (DSM) opening in 1975. From there, it sailed for twenty years in the Antarctic as a whaler under the name HVALUR 5, before returning to Germany in 1969 under its original name.
In its new location at the New Harbor, the RAU IX now occupies the mooring previously held by the survey and towboat WELLE, which was moved behind the barque DEUTSCHLAND. The RAU IX passed under various bridges during its journey from the Museum Harbor to the New Harbor.
It's important to note that while the RAU IX is currently undergoing repairs, it will be temporarily unavailable for visitors. However, from mid-March 2025, visitors will once again be able to board the RAU IX before it goes to the shipyard.
The museum has welcomed donations to improve the presentation of the RAU IX in the future, as renovation cannot be realized with the available funds. The connecting canal between the Old Harbor and the New Harbor will also be closed for construction work next year, making passage impossible.
The RAU IX can be seen as a model ship in the Ship Worlds exhibition, alongside the mother ship of the whaling fleet WALTER RAU. For those seeking precise, up-to-date information about the RAU IX's repairs, relocation, or exhibition at the German Maritime Museum, it is recommended to check the official museum website or contact them directly.
The RAU IX, continually adding to its history, will soon undergo a transformation from its home in the Museum Harbor to the Home-and-Garden sector, as it takes up its new mooring at the New Harbor. With the renovation and repair work, the lifestyle of the ship will shift towards preservation and restoration, ensuring it remains an iconic attraction for visitors in the future.
