Saving HMS Unicorn
Transforming HMS Unicorn
Project Safe Haven is an ambitious, multi-year, multi-million-pound initiative designed to secure the future of HMS Unicorn, one of the world’s oldest ships still afloat.
This project aims to safeguard the ship’s heritage while enhancing her role as a key cultural and community asset in Dundee. The information below outlines the key elements of Project Safe Haven, including its goals, plans for conservation and regeneration, and the positive impact it will have on the local community and economy.
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Protect the ship
through extensive repairs and maintenance.
Relocate the ship
to a refurbished East Graving Dock.
Build a new dockside visitor centre
including a café, shop, and learning space.
Expand HMS Unicorn's impact
on diverse groups and communities in Dundee and beyond.
The Unicorn Preservation Society
Founded in 1968, the Unicorn Preservation Society (UPS) is dedicated to preserving HMS Unicorn, one of the oldest ships afloat, and providing a world-class museum experience.
In recent years UPS has transformed into a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation, dedicated to the conservation and interpretation of HMS Unicorn. UPS has strengthened its governance, achieved Museum Accreditation, and significantly enhanced its operational capacity. Through our fundraising efforts, stakeholder engagement, and a strategic focus on community inclusion, UPS is now well-positioned to deliver the ambitious Project Safe Haven.
Project Benefits
HMS Unicorn: A Historic Ship
Launched in 1824, HMS Unicorn is a 46-gun frigate and one of the most original old ships in the world. Despite being built for battle, the ship never saw action and remains largely intact. In 1873, she moved to Dundee, where she has served as a training ship and a beloved local landmark since 1962.
Community Engagement and Consultation
In 2022, over 2,500 people participated in a consultation about HMS Unicorn's future, demonstrating strong community support for her conservation and development. The ship's relocation to the East Graving Dock, part of Dundee’s wider regeneration efforts, is part of the Society's 100-year plan to ensure her continued presence in the city for at least another 100 years.
Conservation and Maintenance Efforts
UPS has conducted extensive surveys to assess the ship's condition, using technologies like laser scanning and 3D photogrammetry. This data has helped develop a targeted repair programme. In recognition of our progress, UPS received the Martyn Heighton Award for Excellence in Maritime Conservation in 2022.
Volunteering, Learning, and Outreach
Our award-winning Volunteering, Learning, and Outreach team offers social connection opportunities to marginalised groups in Dundee. Through partnerships, we provide skill-building, confidence development, and create pathways to employment or education. In 2022, our outreach programme was a finalist for the Museums Change Lives Awards.
New Learning and Outreach Space
Project Safe Haven includes a new, fully accessible learning space that will expand outreach programmes, allowing more groups to engage with HMS Unicorn. A Changing Place facility will also be introduced to ensure accessibility for all.
Economic Impact and Regeneration
Project Safe Haven will create jobs, boost visitor numbers, and contribute to Dundee's long-term economic growth. The ship’s new location will support the regeneration of Dundee’s Waterfront, which includes the development of a new marina and the proposed Eden Project Dundee.
Supporting Regional Strategies
HMS Unicorn aligns with the Tay Cities Regional Economic Strategy, which aims to grow Dundee’s visitor economy. The ship is also highlighted in the City Plan for Dundee (2022-2032) and the Strategic Investment Plan for 2050 as a transformative project for the city's future.
Training and Skills Development
One of the challenges of Project Safe Haven is the shortage of historic shipbuilding and maintenance skills. UPS is addressing this by launching a traineeship programme focused on maintaining HMS Unicorn, offering both hard and soft skills training. UPS is also in talks to establish a shipbuilding excellence centre in collaboration with local partners.
New Visitor Facilities
As part of the project, a new café and retail space will be created to enhance visitor experience. The café will provide a community hub, while the shop will offer locally-sourced products and HMS Unicorn-themed merchandise. An online sales platform will also be developed.
Sustainable Timber for Future Maintenance
In partnership with Dundee City Council, the Society planted 2,000 oak saplings at Camperdown Park to create "Unicorn Wood," ensuring a sustainable timber supply for future ship maintenance while benefiting local biodiversity and air quality.
Financial Support and Fundraising
UPS has received significant funding, including from the National Heritage Memorial Fund, to carry out urgent repairs on the ship. We are also actively raising funds through donations, volunteering, and partnerships to support the ongoing care and development of HMS Unicorn.