Deck Diaries

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior with Alderman Peel School

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 16:02:42 GMT

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior - An overview from Erin...

What a week! Selected from countless applications, ten lucky students were given the opportunity to set sail aboard the Excelsior along with two amazing teachers, Mr Tomlinson and Miss Carter de Bois.

Our adventure started with the bus journey to Lowestoft, which was filled with a nervous excitement. The forecast for the week ahead was warm and sunny, with very little wind, so we were hopeful the sea would be calm and kind as we travelled to the Netherlands and back.

Upon arrival at The Excelsior Trust in Lowestoft, Ex APHS student Louis, gave us an informative tour of the boat yard where we saw boats in need of some tender loving care.

Finally, the time had come to board the Excelsior and with great eagerness we explored the boat which was to be our home for the next week. We were excited to meet the members of the crew and the volunteers who would be our family.

Just before setting off, we had the opportunity to board a Dutch Navy vessel and have a tour and a chat. Feeling fortunate we left Lowestoft exhilarated and began our voyage to Hellevoetsluis.

As we set sail our learning began immediately, practical skills like making fast, sweating and tailing ropes and tying various knots. We had a chance to steer the helm and log our progress hour by hour in the navigation room. In two watches we learnt to value the need for good teamwork, utilising our strengths and championing each other while celebrating our successes along the way.

The sea was kind; however, a few battled sea sickness but our spirits remained high. Everyone had the same aim: to be the best crew that we could be, we even invented our own chant to keep our rope pulling coordinated. It was hard work, tiring but fun. Surrounded by the sounds of the sea, we felt exuberant. On our travels we were blessed to catch a glimpse of bioluminescent partials in the water and a radiant orange blood moon which reflected its beauty in the shimmering waters.

Our cooking skills were put to the test, as each watch was tasked with making one meal a day that would feed seventeen hungry crew members. We cooked a variety of food, from pancakes and pastas to curries and chillies. Considering all meals were prepared in a cosy galley kitchen, our culinary skills shone and the food exceeded our expectations. In addition, every morning, it was all hands-on deck as we cleaned the Excelsior vessel, the crew called this ‘Happy Hour’, consisting of deck scrubbing, kitchen cleaning and the not so popular task of cleaning the heads!

Our first destination was Hellevoetsluis port in Holland, a chance to set foot on dry land albeit we were a little wobbly at first and needed to adjust our sea legs. We had the opportunity to explore the town with its charming architecture. As we headed back to port, next on the agenda was swimming and playing in the warm waters by the lighthouse. It was a great way to unwind and relax before heading back onboard refreshed and ready.

We left Hellevoetsluis in the early hours to ensure we would make good time as we headed to our next destination. Just six hours later we arrived in stunning Rotterdam. Our home for a whole day and night. Rotterdam was beautiful and we enjoyed exploring this vibrant town. The food hall was also a hit and gave us all an opportunity to buy souvenirs and gifts for loved ones as well as replenish our snacks! As the day drew to an end it was bitter sweet, we were excited to be sailing again but also sad that our trip was drawing to a close as we were to embark on our homeward journey.

However, the homeward voyage did not disappoint, it was every bit as beautiful as our outward one and as it was summer solstice we relished the fact that time was on our side with a breathtaking solstice sunrise. Our spirits were higher than ever and now in the swing of crew life we were settled and living our best lives.

Land ahoy! Lowestoft was on the horizon. We had accomplished what we had set out to achieve, we had successfully sailed all the way to the Netherlands and back. Our time on board fostered great team ethics not only within out own watches but as one big crew. Taking pride in our learning, our achievements and in representing our school. Being part of the student Excelsior crew taught us so much about ourselves, how we rise to personal challenges, and have ambition to overcome our fears. It allowed us to utilise our strengths while giving us the chance to recognise where we can develop and grow.

To conclude, our time on Excelsior was filled with special moments. The kind generosity of our sponsors has given us this unforgettable experience of self-discovery and valuable skills which we will take with us as we navigate our future journeys. It’s been a voyage of lifetime and one we feel extremely privileged to have had. Heartfelt thanks to all who made this possible.

Erin H-B 9W

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior - A personal perspective from Jake...

Excelsior was a once in a lifetime experience which has really benefited me as a person. From a personal perspective I feel I have grown in confidence and in just a week I have learnt so much about the maritime industry and sailing.

When I started the trip I knew nothing about sailing, but now I feel I have gained important knowledge which I’m sure will come in handy in later life. Excelsior has encouraged to try new things and with guidance from all of the crew on the boat we took part in many jobs like hoisting the sails, navigating and helming, using a tiller to keep the boat on its course.

It has also encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, for instance we all took turns cooking for everyone in our watch groups, and cleaning the boat by scrubbing the deck. This was truly an experience I will never forget.

Jake J Y9

Portrait of an artist in residence, meet Michelle Cohen…

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:23:41 GMT

Introducing Our Exciting NEW Blog Series for 2025:

A tribute to the talented artist and photographer Michelle Cohen

Michelle Cohen was welcomed aboard, sailing from Shetland to Lithuania with The Excelsior Trust last summer as our special guest, Artist in Residence .

Michelle is a Canadian painter and photographer currently living in Glasgow.

Michelle paints on layers of glass and the result is really something quite special, with a unique depth and lustre which really captures the attention, especially when viewed in situ.

One of the key stops on our journey was Svinør , Svinør is one of the best preserved and most beautiful harbours in Southern Norway; where ship owners and captains made their living with busy loading and customs stations operating a thriving shipyard.

Michelle honoured us with a commission to produce a commemorative painting as a donation. The result is a superb depiction of Excelsior berthed in Svinør harbour. Inspiration for the subject matter came from a photograph of the visit in June 2024.

The painting was applied on 2 layers of sheet glass, using acrylic paints, depicting Excelsior berthed in harbour, with a colourful smattering of pretty buildings and rising hillsides gracing the background.

Unusually, in this depiction, the sails are stowed away, offering a contrasting view to the existing paintings of Excelsior under sail.

One layer defines the outlines of the scene adding definition and depth, and together with the painted acrylic plate (shown above), creates an engaging 3-dimensional effect.

The work is due to form part of a heritage exhibition to be held at the Old Lowestoft Town Hall (dates to be confirmed), which will also showcase a number of historical items and models relating to the Excelsior story and the formation of the Trust.

More to come about this in a future blog!

Picture this!

How to own a piece of Michelle’s work and help the Trust…

We are offering a selection of cards, prints and coasters from Michelle Cohen’s selection, and at an affordable price which will delight those wanting a fond memento of their time sailing or volunteering.

And you’ll feel good knowing that a small percentage will be going towards the fundraising coffers so essential to our operation.

How to buy and pricing:

Prints:
8x8 inch, with a 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £2012 x 12 inch with 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £30

Cards:
£3.50 each, or 4 for £12

Coasters:
£4 each or 6 for £20.

Contact: sailing@excelsiortrust.co.uk

In Lowestoft? These items can be bought direct from The Rum Lot , in Kirkley’s unique shopping area in Lowestoft; popular for art and gifts near Lowestoft’s buzzing redeveloped seafront.

And finally, signing off with a great testimonial from Michelle:

“I didn't realise until I got home how much that trip has changed me, made me appreciate and respect nature even more, and now I long to be back on board Excelsior heading out to the open ocean. "

Michelle Cohen

Artist in Residence, Excelsior, June 2024

Thousands Turn Out for Historic Festival in Town

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:46:57 GMT

'A massive success': Thousands turn out for historic festival in town

Iconic vessels descended on the east coast as thousands of people turned out to witness some truly historic scenes in a seaside town.

Marking the 100th anniversary of Lowestoft’s own 77ft sailing vessel Excelsior LT472 - an icon of the town’s national fishing heritage - the racing was held as part of delayed centenary celebrations, after the event had been postponed amid the continuing coronavirus crisis last year.

This was hosted by The Excelsior Trust and Associated British Ports and a tradition that has made a welcome return after more than 20 years.

Saturday's stunning spectacle also showcased a successful Vessels Festival as "everything Lowestoft and everything seafaring" was celebrated.

Spectators armed with binoculars and cameras lined up at the bridge, close to the pier heads, at Heritage Quay and on South Pier as the traditional rigged sailing smacks and smaller vessels left for the racing between 7.45am and 9am.

The vessels headed to the race area off the north beach, around Corton, with crowds assembling at Gunton cliffs and along the north sea wall - between Lowestoft Ness and Tramps Alley - to catch a glimpse of those competing.

Racing began at around 9.30am, with the larger Smacks hitting the start line ahead of the smaller vessels that started racing from 10.15am.

With Great Yarmouth’s steam drifter Lydia Eva supporting the event, a number of smaller vessels - including Lowestoft Lifeboat - went out to support the racing.

As well as Excelsior LT472, among the 25 traditional vessels attending was the 78ft Boy Leslie from Norway - which worked out of Lowestoft between the wars - and the 68ft Swan LK 243 - a herring boat from Lerwick, The Shetlands.

Running from 9am to 5pm close to Heritage Quay on Lowestoft’s South Pier, the ‘Vessels Festival’ celebrated "Lowestoft's rich maritime heritage" with music, demonstrations, history, food, stalls and displays - including numerous local stallholders exhibiting their goods.

Among them was the IBTC - International Boatbuilding Training College - Lowestoft, who showcased traditional boatbuilding methods.

Gerry Skews, from Waveney Valley Smokehouse - Britain's most easterly smokehouse - was among the stallholders that "attracted a lot of interest" throughout the day.

With live music and race commentary updates on stage, performances from a range of acts were showcased - including the Pot of Gold shanty crew singing sea shanties.

After a successful's day's racing, numerous trophies were presented by ABP representatives and the Lord Lieutenant, Clare, Countess Euston - with former Lowestoft Lugger Gleaner LT 64 collecting The Excelsior Trust First Class Smack Trophy for the first large smack over the line.

The Excelsior also opened to the public to have a look around on Sunday on Heritage Quay.

With the event organisers pleased with the turnout, as good crowds attended throughout the day, a trust spokesman said: "It was a massive success.

"Around 5,000 people visited the shore-based Vessels Festival and watched the smacks leave the harbour, while many many more lined the Gunton clifftops to see the race out at sea.

"It was a brilliant day."

The organisers thanked all the sponsors, volunteers, stallholders, the public who assembled in great numbers and all the visiting vessels who turned out from far and wide.

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

As reported in our previous newsletter we had the Freedom of the Town of Lowestoft awarded to John Wylson and also to Excelsior herself.

How proud we were to see John and then the crew accepting the awards from The Mayor, Cllr Alan Green.

Over the same weekend, as part of Lowestoft’s Heritage Open Days 2021, our Trustees organised a Maritime Heritage Festival at Lowestoft’s Heritage Quay on the harbour’s South Pier, as part of Lowestoft’s Heritage Open Days 2021. This was a huge success, not least due to wonderful weather!

Historic Smack Race Festival to Hit Town Waters

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 10:14:37 GMT

'Truly historic' international Smack Race Festival to hit town waters

A fleet of historic sailing smacks will hit the waters off Lowestoft later this month as "a wonderful collection" of vessels descend on the east coast.

The red sails of traditionally rigged sailing smacks will illuminate the waters off Lowestoft as The Excelsior Trust hosts an international Smack Race on Saturday, July 30.

This one-off "truly historic event" - which is being staged after it was postponed amid the continuing coronavirus crisis last year - will feature vessels from across the world.

Organisers The Excelsior Trust are expecting up to 25 traditional vessels to attend for an event being staged to celebrate the centenary of the town's 77ft sailing vessel Excelsior LT472 - an icon of Lowestoft’s national fishing heritage.

Vessels will include the 78ft Boy Leslie from Norway and the 68ft Swan from The Faroe Islands.

With the Smack Race beginning around 9am, vessels will leave the harbour in stages before heading out to sea for the main race.

A trust spokesman said: "This will be a major spectacle and Excelsior Trust is delighted that so many other historic vessels are joining in with our delayed centenary celebrations."

Back on Lowestoft’s South Pier, there will be a ‘Vessels Festival’ taking place with stalls, music and displays reflecting the now vibrant maritime, business and arts scene in Lowestoft.

With Lydia Eva supporting the event, the Vessels Festival - taking place close to Heritage Quay - will see more than 16 local stallholders exhibiting their goods.

Mental Health Awareness Week

Tue, 03 May 2022 10:19:19 GMT

Mental Health Awareness Week

It's Mental Health Awareness week from 9th-15th May 2022 and in conjunction with National Historic Ships UK we are raising awareness of the positive impact engagement with historic vessels can have on wellbeing and mental health.

The theme of the week is loneliness - something that is affecting more and more of us in the UK and has had a huge impact on physical and mental health during the pandemic.

Our First Mate Charlotte has produced the following video:-

Spring 2022 Newsletter

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 11:07:46 GMT

SPRING 2022 NEWSLETTER

Excelsior hosting Smack Race 30/31 July 2022, Lowestoft, Suffolk, UK

The Excelsior Trust is delighted to confirm that our 2022 Centenary Smack Race is going ahead. If you haven’t already registered to enter, please do as soon as possible. We would love to see you!

Click below for entry form.

We are planning:

· Three separate classes

· Broad range of prizes - not just for the fastest vessels

· A two-day shore-side Maritime Fair with Bar and local musicians

· Dedicated bus service around town and to Lowestoft Maritime Museum

· Evening prize-giving event

News from the North:

BOY LESLIE BM312 , the 78’ former Brixham trawler built in Galmpton in 1911 and now operated as a sail training vessel in Norway has entered.

SWAN LK243 , the 67’ former Shetland herring boat built in Lerwick in 1900 and now operated locally as a sail training vessel, has entered with 5 crew and 10 trainees.

Unfortunately, our smack race coincides with the Faroese National Day, which is a ‘must’ for Grimsby built WESTWARD HO! TN54 of 1884. ( EXCELSIOR LT472 attended in 1989 or 1990) . However, the Faroese Association of Wooded Sail Ships is holding a Seamen’s Festival in Klaksvík, a large town in the northern part of the Faroe group in the week beginning 15th August. (If any smack owners would like their vessels to attend, they will be assured a warm and friendly welcome - contact claus.reistrup@icloud.com)

The Brixham trawler DEODAR BM 313 (and LT485 ) of 1911 is authentically restored and in good order in Stockholm, but disappointingly the voyage is now too daunting for her owners. But as the former Yarmouth lugger (drifter) EUREKA YH815 and Lowestoft smack SUNBEAM LT669 remain as potential attendees it is worth giving an update on the Pandemic for foreign owners.

SYBIL of Honfleur (formerly CK349 of Wivenhoe) seeks crew for visit to Lowestoft.

The 1901 built SYBIL has been owned and well maintained by the same family for 50 years and seeks more crew to help sail her to Lowestoft and take part in the Festivities. Contact: Rikki Judd richardjudd0123@gmail.com

Covid Update

In the UK the number of reported infections has been very high because we have been doing more testing than anywhere else. The daily figure was reducing significantly down to the levels of last July, presumably because most UK citizens now have the necessary antibodies (and Memory ’T’ Cells) having had one of the Covid variants or been vaccinated.

The current predominant Omicron variant is much milder and more like normal influenza, and many people are not even aware they have it. Restrictions have therefore been lifted in stages, and recently the last restrictions were removed altogether. However, at each relaxation there has been a corresponding resurgence in the number of infections which subsequently tailed off again. Right now there is therefore a resulting rise in the number of detections, but this is expected to tail off again.

Obviously other variants will appear, but if they follow the pattern of Spanish ‘flu in 1919 they will just be regular influenza which, of course, is still dangerous to the vulnerable.

We are therefore confident our Smack Race will go ahead this year without interference because people who come to the UK are unlikely to catch Covid because most UK citizens have had it (or been vaccinated); and because foreigners do not pose a threat to the UK population as our now-endemic defences seem to be efficacious against all currently known variants.

Nevertheless we will keep you informed.

Life must go on

World events seem to be putting Covid into perspective, and Lowestoft continues to support wind farm development with every useable quay in the port let for high-speed catamarans to take personnel out to work on the turbines.

Limited berths are only available at ABP’s Haven Marina (with a few at the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club). ABP have kindly agreed to their Haven Marina hosting the smacks, but berths are limited. If you are planning to enter your vessel into the Lowestoft Jubilee and Centenary Smack Race it is essential to get your booking form in as soon as possible. When we have your entry form we can allocate a berth. If you turn up expecting a berth on the day I am afraid you will be disappointed.

Shore-side activities

Our shore-side plans are going well and we have the full backing of the local authorities, following our very successful event last year near the Lifeboat station, when we celebrated Excelsior’s Freedom of The Town of Lowestoft.

We have had numerous additional applications for pitches this year. The theme is nautical and includes boatbuilding demonstrations, a ship’s blacksmith, locally smoked fish, local artists and folk singers and interesting educational stalls from the likes of CEFAS (Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science). If you would like a pitch please apply to: centenary@excelsior.co.uk

We hope to see you soon!

The Excelsior Trust

www.theexcelsiortrust.co.uk

07981543460

For Smack Race queries please contact John Wylson on: 07981543460

For The Vessels Festival Shore-side please contact Laurence Vulliamy at:- centenary@excelsiortrust.co.uk

December 2021 Newsletter

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 10:55:58 GMT

DECEMBER 2021 NEWSLETTER

Dear Supporters

We’ve made it through another year despite all the challenges!

Covid has had a profound impact on the sail training industry, and several unlucky organisations had to shut down temporarily.

Like all heritage vessels Excelsior LT472 needs constant care, and we were fortunate indeed to have a loyal and devoted crew, who stuck by The Excelsior Trust to ensure that our remarkable Centenarian received the loving attention that she requires.

The day sails we were able to offer enabled us to take a group of young carers from Break Charity on a couple of trips as well as a party doing their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential Award on a voyage.

We are so very grateful to both the crew and all our lovely volunteers who never gave up and as a result Excelsior is looking in pretty good shape for next season!

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

As reported in our previous newsletter we had the Freedom of the Town of Lowestoft awarded to John Wylson and also to Excelsior herself.

How proud we were to see John and then the crew accepting the awards from The Mayor, Cllr Alan Green.

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

As reported in our previous newsletter we had the Freedom of the Town of Lowestoft awarded to John Wylson and also to Excelsior herself.

How proud we were to see John and then the crew accepting the awards from The Mayor, Cllr Alan Green.

Local businesses displaying their maritime heritage work included:

The International Boatbuilding Training College

(maintaining traditional boatbuilding skills)

CEFAS

Rope Making - Des Pawson

Net Making - Alice Taylor

Gansey Knitting - Jan Whitehead

Books and Prints – Hugh Davies

Ship’s Blacksmithing - John Mallett

Fish smoking - Gerry Skews

Another Angle Studio – Maria McNevin

There were also musical performances by The Lowestoft Longshoremen and the excellent John Ward Trio.

Excelsior was open to the public and there was a constant queue of visitors wishing to look around the boat. The Maritime Heritage Fair attracted a significant attendance, estimated at being between 2,07981543460 many of whom had not been previously aware that Excelsior LT472 was Lowestoft’s heritage icon.

The funding we received from Covid Recovery enabled us to significantly raise our awareness, and publicity through local and social media resulted in far greater interest from the local Community. This has seen more locally based volunteers coming forward to get involved and an increase in the number of enquiries received to experience a trip on board this 100-year-old authentically restored Lowestoft Smack.

The Trust welcomes:

First Mate Charlotte Hathaway joined us in the summer.

Before coming to sailing, Charlotte worked for 10 years with young people - more specifically, in traditional music in Scotland.

She found her love of sailing in the Caribbean where she had her own boat and sailed singlehanded round the region, before getting her Tickets and working on the charter boats, before going on to take her Yachtmaster in the UK.

Charlotte is passionate about ocean sailing and has crossed the Atlantic twice, north Atlantic once for some punishing heavy weather experience.

Alice Taylor joined us as a Trustee this year.

Alice was born in Norwich but has lived all over the world and retired to her hometown of Lowestoft.

She has trained and worked in Military Intelligence as a Russian language interceptor, in marketing and advertising, and as a lecturer in digital graphics, animation and video game design. She has a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration and is a qualified teacher in both the US and the UK.

Mrs Taylor has worked in a variety of professional settings and has served on the Lowestoft Town Council and as the Mayor of Lowestoft. She is presently a Trustee in the Excelsior Trust and the Deputy Chair of Lowestoft Vision.

Her hobbies include a deep interest in Art, Lowestoft maritime history, and the art and science of running a retail business.

Media Coverage generated:

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/excelsior-is-brilliant-way-of-connecting-to-past-8331678

https://www.edp24.co.uk/lifestyle/heritage/britain-s-oldest-fishing-trawler-8345308

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/lowestoft-heritage-open-days-festival-success-07981543460

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/excelsior-at-lowestoft-maritime-heritage-fair-8312686

https://www.lowestoftjournal.co.uk/news/freedom-of-town-lowestoft-awards-excelsior-8316988

2022 Plans

Sailing Calendar

Thanks to the hard work of our Sales & Admin Manager Dawn Cooke we are delighted that we already have several weeks of bookings committed in 2022. Schools are beginning to return, highlighting the need to offer their students something positive to look forward to with the emphasis on improving their sense of well-being.

Centenary Smack Race

The Excelsior Centenary Smack Race had to be postponed this year because of worries over Covid, but The Trust are setting their sights on the event taking place on 30th July next year. We have invited all available historical, sailing, fishing vessels in the UK, Scandinavia and Europe to join us after The Tall Ships race arrives in Antwerp, where a feeder race to Lowestoft is being organised, to bring the vessels across The North Sea to Excelsior’s home port.

Seeing the vessels racing off Lowestoft Ness on Saturday 30th July should be a magnificent and memorable sight for all, and following the success of this year’s Maritime Fair, The Trust will be organising another public event on Lowestoft’s South Pier over the long weekend of the Smack Race, to celebrate Lowestoft’s fishing heritage.

If you are the owner of an historic, sailing fishing vessel and you have not – by chance – received an entry form for The Smack Race please contact Mary George: marketing@excelsiortrust.co.uk

Friends of Excelsior

The Excelsior Trust has many friends, and we would like to welcome many more. The Trust would like to hear from anyone who would like to help co-ordinate and build ‘The Friends of Excelsior’ as a group to support Excelsior as we go forward. If you are interested to know more about how you can help, please contact Mary George: marketing@excelsiortrust.co.uk

Excelsior Chairman - Jamie Campell

Funding

During these turbulent times, there has been unprecedented government financial support available. Thanks to the hard work of Trustees and Management Committee members in putting together a comprehensive application, we were able to access the Covid Recovery funding. We continue to keep our eyes peeled for any grants available and our regular charitable Trusts remain supportive. We are eternally grateful to them all.

With so much uncertainty still around, we had already taken the decision not to hold a Christmas social event. We are sure you will understand and hopefully we can all get together in 2022 in different and happier circumstances.

May I take this opportunity to wish you all a peaceful and healthy Christmas and New Year.

Jamie Campbell
Chairman

Freedom of the Town Honours

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 07:26:52 GMT

Double delight for Excelsior LT472 in her Centenary Year

Lowestoft acknowledges importance of its maritime sailing icon

A double honour has been bestowed upon sailing trawler Excelsior this week by Lowestoft Town Council. In its centenary year this much-loved historic ship and her locally based rescuer, John Wylson, have both been awarded ‘Freedom of The Town of Lowestoft’ in recognition of their activities. In Excelsior’s instance this is the first time the council has awarded a Freedom to something other than a person.

John Wylson has managed to combine a career as an architect with a love of the sea. He found and rescued Excelsior in Norway where she was working as a ‘motor coaster’ and in 1972 brought the vessel back to Lowestoft. John and a friend then spent 10 years of their spare time rebuilding the hull, before setting up The Excelsior Trust to restore her authentically back to her original condition on deck. With an in-depth knowledge of traditional materials and shipwright’s skills, he can fit a futtock or serve a shroud! John’s ambition to keep alive all those skills has made Excelsior an almost unique survivor from the days of sail. Nationally recognised for her authenticity, Excelsior waves a flag for Lowestoft wherever she goes. This has included places as far apart as St Petersburg and Oporto.

“This means a great deal to me” John said. “However we wouldn’t have been able to maintain such an important part of the area’s maritime history without the help and enthusiasm of countless volunteers and supporters over many years. I am delighted and honoured on their behalf to be given the Freedom of the Town”.

Excelsior is also fondly remembered by the people of Bodo in North Norway, when a German bombing raid set fire to the town during the Second World War. Ferrying the townsfolk to safety on a nearby island Excelsior was herself dive-bombed and was subsequently beached for repairs. There are plans to visit Bodo in the future.

She is the last remaining traditional Lowestoft sailing trawler able to tow a full-sized trawl. Re-commissioned in the 1980s she operates as a sail-training vessel and has taken nearly 10,000 people to sea over those years including many from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The ship’s media appearances include Channel 4’s The Real History Show: Fish and Ships; BBC’s The Last Journey of John Keats; Disney’s Alice Through The Looking Glass; Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk; BBC’s Coast and Channel 4’s Homes by the Sea.

Excelsior’s Centenary Patron is HRH The Princess Royal who will be supporting the 100-year-old celebrations when Covid regulations allow. The Trust is also organising a Smack Race off Lowestoft in 2022 involving vintage sailing trawlers from across Europe and beyond to commemorate its anniversary.

Excelsior Chairman Jamie Campbell: “We are, of course, thrilled that Lowestoft has recognised the importance of the ship as a lasting memorial of the area’s maritime heritage and hope that this will encourage the local community to support and be proud of this remarkable centenarian. We are doubly proud that John Wylson, rescuer and protector of Excelsior has also been honoured in this way. As Vice President of Excelsior Trust, John retains a pivotal role in ensuring that the ship remains fit for purpose and will continue to take so many individuals to sea for what is often a life changing experience.”

A regular visitor to Scandinavia, Germany, Holland, Belgium, France and the Channel Islands, due to Covid uncertainties this year’s sailing season means that Excelsior will be sailing in UK waters only.

There is currently a programme of day-sails planned during the latter part of June onwards (beginning on Wednesday 23rd June from Lowestoft) which can be seen on the Trust’s website:- http://www.theexcelsiortrust.co.uk/our-voyages/sailing-calendar or phone Dawn on 07981543460

The Trust welcomes anyone who wishes to volunteer his or her services (no skills required) to help maintain this remarkable historic vessel. Thank you sails are part of their reward.

Deck Diaries

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior with Alderman Peel School

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior - An overview from Erin...

Sailing the spirit of Excelsior - A personal perspective from Jake...

Portrait of an artist in residence, meet Michelle Cohen…

Picture this!

How to own a piece of Michelle’s work and help the Trust…

How to buy and pricing:

Prints: 8x8 inch, with a 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £2012 x 12 inch with 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £30 Cards: £3.50 each, or 4 for £12 Coasters: £4 each or 6 for £20.

“I didn't realise until I got home how much that trip has changed me, made me appreciate and respect nature even more, and now I long to be back on board Excelsior heading out to the open ocean. "

Michelle Cohen

Artist in Residence, Excelsior, June 2024

Thousands Turn Out for Historic Festival in Town

'A massive success': Thousands turn out for historic festival in town

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

Historic Smack Race Festival to Hit Town Waters

'Truly historic' international Smack Race Festival to hit town waters

Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week

Spring 2022 Newsletter

SPRING 2022 NEWSLETTER

Excelsior hosting Smack Race 30/31 July 2022, Lowestoft, Suffolk, UK

News from the North:

SYBIL of Honfleur (formerly CK349 of Wivenhoe) seeks crew for visit to Lowestoft.

Covid Update

Life must go on

Shore-side activities

December 2021 Newsletter

DECEMBER 2021 NEWSLETTER

Dear Supporters

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

September was definitely the highlight of 2021!

The Trust welcomes:

Media Coverage generated:

2022 Plans

Sailing Calendar

Centenary Smack Race

Friends of Excelsior

Excelsior Chairman - Jamie Campell

Funding

Freedom of the Town Honours

Double delight for Excelsior LT472 in her Centenary Year

Prints:
8x8 inch, with a 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £2012 x 12 inch with 2 inch mount, cellophane bag and backing board, signed by the artist: £30

Cards:
£3.50 each, or 4 for £12

Coasters:
£4 each or 6 for £20.