In late 2005, the Foundation for the Preservation of the Motor Tug Alphecca was established. This foundation buys the tug Johann, with the goal of preserving her in the condition she was put in when she was transitioned from motor tug to “modern” motor tug in 1959.
The Johann was subsequently renamed Alphecca, and since then the main task of the foundation has been to restore the ship to its 1959 condition and to preserve it by using her as a participant in nautical events, and by making her available for hire by groups of up to 12 people.
Proceeds are used to achieve the objective. Those revenues, unfortunately, are not enough to fund that objective. Help from many volunteers and the occasional contribution from a sponsor are also necessary.