Sail the Humber in traditional craft on 19 & 20 July 2008
Not-to-be-missed opportunity to sail a traditional Humber keel and sloop
AR wrote about Norfolk wherries, Thames barges and other working boats but, though born and bred in Leeds, never to my knowledge, referred to the Humber keels and sloops, which in those days traded to that city in great numbers.
The traditional rigged vessels, operating over the whole region, Humber keels and sloops were always called “ships” (never boats or barges!); probably due to the fact that they regularly sailed as far as the Wash and the Thames as well as the North- East ports. The same craft also traded far inland to Lincoln, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds and even further on river and canal navigations, reverting to horse power when sailing became impractical.
The Humber Keel & Sloop Preservation Society was formed to restore, maintain and to sail these historic craft in original working order. Keel Comrade (square rig) and sloop Amy Howson (fore & aft rig) are outstanding examples and were referred to as “jewels of the East coast” by the Maritime Trust earlier this year. Opportunities to sail are somewhat restricted, being determined by the state of the tide and the ever changing navigable channel. Both ships are also required for Society activities and are in regular demand for various maritime and inland waterway events but, following several months of discussion with the Society, we have been able to secure both for a full weekend, 19th & 20th July 2008.
Starting from South Ferriby, Lincolnshire (South Humberside), tide times mean an early start; - Saturday 8.00am; - Sunday 8.40am, with the duration of the trip 9 to10 hours. Subject to conditions, we will probably commence with a short sail upstream before turning to proceed down the estuary to Immingham and possibly as far as Grimsby and Spurn Head. It is essentially self-catering with access to galley for heating soups & stews etc., although crew can supply sandwiches & snacks and constant brewings of tea & coffee.
There is a total of 48 places available (2 ships x 12 passengers x 2 days).
Cost is £22 per person. Strictly first come, first served on receipt of £10 deposit.
Contact: - Sid Ellis. Tel.01709 813330. Email the Event Organiser.
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