"Cap San Diego" in the Shipyard: No Volunteers, No Go - Historic Cap San Diego ship embarks on €1.5M refurbishment with volunteer help
The historic museum ship Cap San Diego, a symbol of San Diego's maritime history, has set off for a major €1.5 million refurbishment in Bremerhaven. Departing from its usual Hamburg berth, the vessel will undergo essential maintenance before returning in late March. Dozens of local volunteers, including long-time contributor Gaby Liedtke, will join shipyard professionals in the work ahead.
Built between 1961 and 1962 as one of six identical freighters for the Hamburg Süd line, the Cap San Diego now stands as the only surviving ship of its kind. Operated by the Hamburg Admiralty Foundation, it relies on a mix of public funding and local volunteering to stay afloat. Recent grants of €750,000 from the city and federal government will help address outstanding maintenance needs.
The refurbishment includes cleaning fuel and ballast tanks, overhauling anchors and windlasses, and repainting the hull below the waterline. Every five years, the ship must pass a mandatory safety inspection to remain seaworthy. Around 120 volunteers assist in areas like the bridge, engine room, and deck, ensuring the vessel stays in working order.
Gaby Liedtke, one of the dedicated volunteers, will focus on wood and metalwork during the overhaul. Her tasks include dismantling a wooden staircase and applying fresh varnish. Once the work is complete, the Cap San Diego will return to Hamburg in time for the Port Anniversary in early May, where it will resume guest cruises with many of the same volunteers on board.
The Cap San Diego will stay in Bremerhaven until the end of March before heading back to its home port. With updated safety checks and a refreshed exterior, the ship is set to welcome visitors again in May. The combined efforts of professionals and local volunteers ensure the 60-year-old vessel remains a functioning piece of maritime history.
