HURRICA V
Above, top: teak cockpit complete with wheel steering and compass binnacle, and a cockpit table fitted to the mizzen mast. Above, left to right: classic Nicholsons coachwork; bronzeware to the original patterns. Left: original gaff rig has been replaced with a triple-headsail bermudan ketch sail plan
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CLASSIC BOAT MAY 2013
Hurrica V had been lying idle for several years on a mooring in Church Point, Sydney, Australia, when Gunns first caught a glimpse of her. “I first spotted her in a black-and-white advert where she was displayed under dilapidated and hardly flattering covers,” says Dunns. “Besotted by the lines, all thoughts turned to owning a classic. There are so few classics left in the world to restore now as most have been rehabilitated from mud-berths and swamps, and yet here was a beauty on the market that was at least afloat. So with no pressures in the office and the day sparkling, I made a call and went to have a look. Heading out to the mooring, the shape behind the covers began to emerge and timber spars stood tall above our dinghy. Tying alongside, the lines of the hull, the sweeping sheer and the beautiful counter were intoxicating. The size was right but the condition was a wreck; cosmetically on her last legs but she appeared structurally sound.” A total rebuild was more than likely but not daunting to an architect. And of course there was the Nicholson pedigree. In an instant, Gunns purchased the vessel at a