A serious fire destroyed the Christen boatyard in Waren an der Müritz in mid-October. The traditional company is known for its moulded dinghy cruisers. Also YACHT has already presented a racing 30 from Christen. In addition to the shipyard building, machinery, tools and several classic wooden boats were destroyed by the flames. Jens Christen's flat and a rented sailmaking workshop also burned down almost completely. We enquired with master boat builder Christen about the current situation.
YACHT: Mr Christen, the destruction caused by the fire was immense. What happens now?
Jens Christen: We are doing everything we can to ensure that the shipyard continues to exist. In Waren, on Isenbahnstraat, we have been given the opportunity to use part of a commercial building. We are currently setting up a temporary workshop there so that our team can continue working. We had already stored some boats there previously.
What about your employees? Have you been able to retain them?
We are downsizing somewhat. One trainee is moving to Lübeck and one journeyman has retired due to age. We are trying to keep the others as best we can.
You seem very confident. How was that possible so quickly?
We were lucky to have numerous helpers at our side. Many sports enthusiasts supported us and brought the undamaged boats to the new hall. People's willingness to help is impressive and I am very grateful for it. Without the donations, everything would probably have been over by now.
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You said that the new workshop is a temporary solution. What are the plans for the long term?
In the long term, we would like to rebuild the old site. It is located directly on the lake, has a crane system and has existed since 1946. I hope that this will be taken into account in the authorisation process. However, there are no concrete plans yet; everything is still under development. Some city representatives have already spoken in favour, so I am optimistic.
Is there any news about the cause of the fire?
No, not yet. The police are investigating the incident. However, negligence has been ruled out. Arson is suspected, but this cannot yet be confirmed with absolute certainty.
