ML Vasco: The forgotten boat of the man who built modern Kochi

In a quiet yard in Thoppumpady, Kochi, a forgotten relic of history is coming back to life. What was once sold as scrap turned out to be Sir Robert Bristow’s personal boat — ML Vasco, the vessel that carried the man who built modern Kochi, its port, bridges, and Willingdon Island.

Discovered by scrap dealer Sajar Sithara at the Cochin Port Trust auction in 2010, the teakwood boat is now being lovingly restored — not for profit, but for posterity. From its brass fittings to its century-old engine, every detail of ML Vasco tells a story of craftsmanship, courage, and connection to Kochi’s roots.

Know all about Bristow’s legacy and the extraordinary effort by Sajar and his nephew Julker to preserve a priceless piece of Kochi’s maritime history.

Producer: Anantha Narayanan K
Editor: Arun George Mathew