A day on Maria will be like a step back in time. You will be transported back to the glory days of the Essex smacksmen when in the early part of the 20th century, the year round battle of fishing and dredging for oysters was punctuated by a summer crewing on the big racing yachts such as Britannia and. Many a smacksman made his reputation and a small fortune in the service of the King in his battles with those upstart German cousins.
Bring a good pair of sailing gloves because if you want to get involved, there are no winches. All the halliards and sheets are hauled by hand. You’ll work in pairs, one ‘sweating’ the other tailing.
Sailing Day
A day on Maria will be from 0900 till 1600 from her base in Brightlingsea. She can take parties up to six. The day will include lunch, tea and coffee. You will need to bring your own waterproof clothing and non marking soles, but lifejackets are provided.
Racing Day
Maria is one of the most successful smacks racing today. There are a limited number of spaces to join and race with her experienced crew. Please enquire for dates.
Dredging, Fishing and Stowboating
Maria still uses her traditional gear for fishing and oyster dredging. She is the only boat remaining with the nets and equipment to stowboat. This is done by sitting at anchor in the tidal stream with a net below the boat (see left). Periodically the net is hauled aboard in sections to collect the catch.
Any catch is solely for the consumption of the crew.
Prices (per person)
Cruising £160 per day
Regatta Crew £200/ per day
Fishing/ Dredging/Stowboating £160 per day
(Prices correct as of May 2014)
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