Thames Barge Thistle - places still available for day-sail on June 20th

The Club has chartered "Thistle" for a day sail on Saturday June 20th 2009, so that club members, family and friends can get a taste of sailing a slightly bigger boat than usual ...

Leaving Ipswich Quay at 10.00 am and returning at approximately 16:30 pm, our day will probably be spent exploring rivers Orwell and Stour, however the exact itinerary will depend upon weather conditions on the day.
The plan is to share cars for the journey to Ipswich.

The cost will be £50 per person and this will include a buffet lunch. Numbers will be limited and there will be a chance to help sail the boat for those that want to do so.

Thistle is a Thames sailing barge, built on the Clyde on 1895 and has the distinction of being the only ship of her type to be built in Scotland. She was requisitioned for war service during World War II - before her first engine was installed in 1948. Thistle spent nearly ninety years plying her trade along the Thames before retiring from service in 1972 and being beautifully restored for passenger charters. Her spacious saloon and wide decks, with a protected well-deck area make her ideal for group events. She continues to sail competitively and is a regular winner of the annual barge Matches on the East Coast.
More information about Thistle on the web - click here

Please note: Sensible non slip footwear must be worn (trainers are fine). Passengers wearing stilettos or patent leather shoes will not be allowed aboard.

To reserve your place or if you have any questions please contact the Vice Commodore, Nigel Birch - nigel.birch@btinternet.com or 8742 7613.