Out on the water a few weeks ago I came across a strange new vessel sitting at a familiar mooring position … the two did not appear to be as per the norm of many forays across the sands as the tide lifted. I have become used to seeing the lovely little barge yacht Nancy Grey sitting off Victoria Wharf, Leigh-on-Sea. She is vessel often seen about when sailing across on the Medway and Swale too…
The Nancy Grey winging her way through the harbour at Queenbororough a few seasons ago with the then owner Nick Hann at the helm, with not a care in the world…
Alas, the sight of this good ship on my ‘winter’ sails will have await summer periods: the good ship has departed to a new owner and her base will be Faversham a nice place too… Ironically her new owner was the one before Nick himself … back in the fold, as it were! I look forward to renewing my acquaintance, probably around the Swale, next season…
The craft on ‘Nancy’s’ mooring is another ‘barge’ which is of steel construction. Currently the vessel is not rigged, but a main mast sits in the tabernacle with hoops in place for a top mast too … sailing round and round Nick’s new ship we had a longish conversation. He plans to have her sailing within two years and with retirement beckoning for himself and his mate, a more comfortable cruising life was wanted.
Calluna, Nick’s new barge off Victoria Wharf.
I’m told that the wheel house is to be removed – some form of ‘weather shield’ would be useful though – and he may change the colour scheme. “she’s a bit tubby” he said, “but she’s got a shower…” The ship has been in use on the French canals for a number of years. Now she’s back ‘home’ and is to be rigged out for the first time…
Good sailing Nick…
Further up Leigh Creek I came across the lovely looking wooden barge yacht Tiny Mite. She was alongside the club ship of the Leigh Motor Boat Club having been re- launched recently. Her owner has spent around a decade rebuilding the vessel. I look forward to seeing her rigged and out sailing … I have an abiding memory of her out one Boxing Day flying a huge union flag from her sprit end whilst I was out with my mate… Wonderful.
Tiny Mite… She’ll be a picture with her masts and stays set up…
I received this information from Nick Hann today (Sunday 5th)…
Hi Nick,
Good to see you last week. I read your blog – v good.
Now I’ll fill you in!
Calluna was launched at Benfleet in 1996 – the previous owner lives in Bristol. She is a Peter Nicolls design
Calluna was launched at Benfleet in 1996 – the previous owner lives in Bristol. She is a Peter Nicolls design (so I understand) and the previous owner purchased the bare hull and fitted her out himself and I reckon he made a jolly good job of it, especially down below and with aft captains cabin makes her very comfortable.