A proposito

Boatshed Essex are delighted to feature this delightful Sailing Barge, packed with history, modernisation, comfort and performance. Built in 1905, by Humphrey and Grey, in iron, she was a bonded, spirit barge, mainly carrying tea (unrigged). She had sweeps to navigate on the tides fitted, also with a rudder and tiller steering. From 1958 she became one of four training barges for, Lightermen on the River Thames, during which time she had a new bottom and rubbing band. During the 1970's, the vessel was converted to a swim head sailing barge, with budget stern, a gaff rig, including shrouds (still on her today) were fitted and tiller steering. The mizzen was relatively small and tiller mounted. The refit also included new rails, a mast case from Swift Shore and a windlass. During 2002 the vessel was converted to a traditional Thames Sailing Barge, fitted with a straight stern and traditional bow. The hull was doubled, with vegetable oil sealing the void between the inner and outer plating. The helm was changed to wheel steering, along with the addition of an auxiliary engine, the six cylinder Ford Dover with 128hp and a PRM box. The spritsail rig was extended and re-stepped, along with a new, larger mizzen. The barge interior was refitted, although retaining much of the stern cabin. New, galvanised, fuel and water tanks were installed, in addition to a holding tank. The current owner has continued the meticulous upkeep and improvement of the vessel, including a refit of the galley, addition of diesel powered interior heating and a new hot water cylinder and annual full rigging service. Altogether, when I visited this beautiful barge, I was struck by a boat that, although a historic classic, had consistently kept pace with maintenance schedules and improvements across owners. The vessel presents as in commission, with a wealth of potential, from comfortable, classic cruising, to liveaboard and commercial potential, with the addition of a residential mooring. If you would like any further information, or to arrange a personal viewing, then please contact our office and one of the team would be delighted to help. These boat details are subject to contract. Note: Offers on the asking price may be considered. Register with Boatshed to see 157 extra photos of this Thames Sailing Barge 58ft . This Thames Sailing Barge 58ft has been personally photographed and viewed by Jayne Markham of Boatshed Essex.