Very true, Colin, but at least they were starting with a real hull, and restoring it, as far as possible, to its original appearance.
In the case of replicas, they are usually built for a specific purpose - the Mayflower, Golden Hinde and Matthew, for instance were built to recreate their original journeys to celebrate anniversaries. Others, such as the now defunct Prins Willem (spelling?) started life solely as tourist attractions and in the urge to get bums on seats are little more than elaborate film sets.
The Lisa von Lübeck, a replica of a 15th century Hanseatic caravel, is currently visiting King's Lynn. Externally she looks the part, but she arrived under power - conditions not right for sailing - and hosted a reception in the bar built in what should be the hold. I had planned to pay her a visit, but don't think I'll bother - the bar might be open!
The need to make these ships - both original and replica - pay their way and conform to modern safety standards while still retaining a degree of originality is a very fine balancing act. I have posted before on the subject of cutting holes in ships to improve access and the current "improvements" to Cutty Sark to enable corporate functions. All laudable in their way, as they increase revenue and enable more restoration, but at the same time they debase what they set out to preserve.
Rick