The shipyard remained in regular operation until 2022, most recently as an employment project run by the Ærø Job Centre. However, this programme expired and was not extended, so a development fund was set up to use the traditional site for cultural projects with a maritime connection.
From employment project to cultural centre
A facility was created that served not least as an educational platform for young people, who were given an insight into the traditional crafts of the various trades involved in shipbuilding and seafaring. Designed as a social workshop, the programme was aimed at tourists as well as young islanders and the schools of South Funen.
A central concern of the development fund was to act as a competent partner with a high level of expertise in the field of traditional crafts. The focus was particularly on the younger generation. The organisation wanted to play an active role in the island's educational programmes, including special training for young people with disabilities (STU), production schools (EPX) and the Juniormesterlære, a special form of craft apprenticeship for younger students. These educational programmes were intended to train a new generation of seafarers who, it was hoped, would be able to continue their education directly on the island.
End of an institution
Now the final end is imminent. The M/F "Svendborgsund", which belongs to the museum shipyard, will soon be leaving the harbour, while a clearance sale will take place in the adjoining shop until the end of the year. A sale of the remaining items will then take place in December, after most of the materials and equipment have been returned. This final step marks the end of a project that has been important for the island community both as an employment scheme and as a cultural education centre.
