A sailing barge is perhaps an unusual sight in the South West of the UK, but is one of the most recognised and admired types of sailing boat in the Netherlands.
Its shape and features might seem very unusual to the sports yachtsman or woman of the UK, with its wide and shallow shape, wooden leeboards secured to the sides and with its simple lowering mast. Its rigging, gear and winches are very traditional, all having been developed and proven over the last century or so.
All of the features of the barge stem from it needing to be a very versatile vessel being able to sail across choppy open waters, and then inland as far as possible, without depth of water or low bridges holding them up.
Little has changed today except these boats have become yachts rather than being used for fishing or transport.
Only a few knowledgeable and adventurous owners have bought them to the UK but they suit our sheltered coastal waters very well, both on the east coast where the waters are shallow, and in the South West where rivers run deep into the land.
The wide shape also means they have a have a large and spacious seating area, where much time is usually spent socialising or relaxing either under sail or at a mooring.
To experience sailing on a barge yourself, find out how by visiting our website:
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