Thistle F86

Built in 1908 for use as an oyster dredger at Whitstable, she was motorised in 1910 and became a carrier boat for the other vessels.

Bought in a derelict state in 1990, after being laid up for 10 years direct from trade, ‘Thistle’ has been extensively rebuilt and restored to her original sailing condition, without an engine.

Where the oysters used to be stored in the hold, there is now comfortable accomodation, with five berths, a gas cooker and cast iron stove.

Sailing this smack is both challenging and rewarding. Being without an engine means that the crew have to strive hard to get the most out of the vessel and a days sailing requires plenty of effort! However, once the order is given to drop anchor and stow the sails, there is a real sense of achievement having used only the elements of wind and tide to reach the destination.