Meet the Owner: Keith Berry and the Restoration of the Mary Irene Millar

In this exclusive edition, we move away from our traditional Q&A format to bring you a first-hand account from Keith Berry. It is often the most unassuming conversations that lead to the most extraordinary discoveries. Late last year, we answered a call from Keith Berry regarding an enquiry for a Boatworld 320 Explorer. What we didn't expect was that as the conversation delved deeper into his plans, we realised we weren't just talking to a new Boatworld SIB owner, we were speaking to the custodian of a 25-ton maritime legend.

For over a decade, Keith has been the proud custodian of the Mary Irene Millar (MIM), an iconic 47ft Tyne-class lifeboat. With a service history that includes 251 launches and 70 lives saved at Portpatrick, her legacy continues through Keith's meticulous restoration, and we have obtained an exclusive account of his epic restoration journey.

What First Drew Me to Mary Irene Millar (MIM)

"I bought my first retired lifeboat, an Ex-RNLI Solent-class named 'Douglas Currie', in 1997. We travelled many miles in her without any problems, but her accommodation was limited. The Tyne-class offered a lot more usable space, and 'Mary Irene Millar' was actually the replacement lifeboat for Douglas Currie at Portpatrick; there was an immediate connection.

When I first took ownership, MIM was in good condition, having been on standby as a relief lifeboat and therefore maintained. However, she was a working lifeboat and as a result had little in the way of creature comforts; it was only when I started adapting the interior that I realised just how much work was needed. 

All the internal alterations have been carried out sympathetically and in keeping with her RNLI heritage. Externally, she's been kept as original as possible. Mary Irene Millar is a part of our maritime history as well as RNLI history, so I feel very proud to be her custodian."

The Restoration Journey

"Any vessel takes a lot of time and money to look after properly, and it would be difficult to pinpoint any single challenge. That said, because of wanting to keep her original as possible and at the same time, be able to have a few creature comforts whilst staying on her when visiting various locations, the common issue was financing the works.

The Detroit Engines were well maintained during their service life, and I do my best to keep them to the same exacting standards as the RNLI. The sound of the iconic engines is sometimes referred to as the 'Spitfire of the Sea'. They still perform as well now as they did during her service days.

Whilst the exterior paint work was still in good condition, I wanted it to be in excellent condition for the RNLI anniversary. I contacted Falmouth Boat Co. and asked them if they would be interested in the work. She was due to be with them for about 6 weeks, but because of their attention to detail and my adding jobs to the list, she ended up staying for 4 months. The time it took did run on, but we were still able to attend 2 events prior to the RNLI anniversary, one in Plymouth and the second in Guernsey.

Highlights and the Future

That's a difficult one! I still get a buzz every time I use her. However, going to Guernsey for their liberation celebrations and the RNLI 200th anniversary are obvious highlights. We've also taken MIM with other retired lifeboats to Binic in Brittany and were very humbled to take part in a local event organised by the Harbour Master, during which we took local disabled children and adults on short trips around the bay.

I don't think MIM will ever be finished; there is always something to do. I could stop and still enjoy her for many years, but that's not in my nature, and it wouldn't be right for her!

Vessel Vital Statistics

• Official No. | 1151 (Operational No. 47-033)
• Built | 1989, FBM Ltd, Cowes (Yard No. 1237)
• Type | 47ft x 15ft Tyne
• Weight | 25 tons 5cwt
• Power | Twin 425hp General Motors 6V-92-TA diesels
• Record | 251 launches, 70 lives saved
• Disposal | Sold out of service December 2013

Where is Mary Irene Millar Now?

Since 2020, Mary Irene Millar has been based at Mayflower Marina in Plymouth. She remains a regular attendee at maritime events across the South West and the Channel Islands. Mayflower Marina remains a proud home for this flourishing piece of history.

Mayflower Marina commented, "Keith has been berthing with us for over 20 years. He first arrived with his Ex Solent Class Lifeboat, Douglas Currie, and has kept his Ex Tyne Class Lifeboat, Mary Irene Millar, at the marina for the past 11 years. Throughout this time, we have witnessed the care, dedication, and pride he has invested in owning, restoring, and maintaining this remarkable vessel."

Mayflower Marina is an independently owned, 5 Gold Anchor marina renowned for its first-class customer service. It offers a wide selection of berths for sail and motor vessels, alongside a full range of on-site services and direct access to open water. The vibrant City of Plymouth and the historic Royal William Yard are just minutes away.

Coming Out of Winterisation at Mayflower Marina

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