A sunny day in early September helped to draw an enthusiastic public to St. Katharine Docks’ 16th Classic Boat Festival. Not that visitors would have been deterred by rain or clouds, for they were mostly seasoned boat enthusiasts, and the vagaries of British weather goes with the territory.
This was the prefect opportunity to see some famous vessels and to meet their owners, who were very welcoming and happy to talk about their craft.
The most well-known group of boats was that of the Dunkirk Little Ships, popular visitors at previous festivals and other events.
Last May, more than sixty Little Ships crossed the Channel to Dunkirk to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo. See films Return to Dunkirk and Return of the heroes.
One of the last built traditional Thames cargo barges, SB ADIEU was converted in 1990 and as used as a restaurant. Restored again, she is now a smartly kitted out luxury home in private hands. She has been seen over the years competing successfully at Thames annual barge races.
Beautifully maintained and striking to see in St. Katharine Docks, GLORIANA is a lasting legacy of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
SAGA FARMANN is a meticulous reconstruction of a thousand year old Viking trading vessel, and her visit to St. Katharine Docks was just one stop on her voyage begun three years ago from Tønsberg, exploring Viking trade routes of the past.
Launched in March 2023, this police launch was named TIM RUPRECHT after “a much-respected friend and colleague”, who died after battling against prostate cancer. We were welcomed on board and saw the delight on the faces of a couple of children allowed to sound the siren.
Delighted to meet…
Some ropes that caught my eye…
For those taking part in the Festival there was a lot going on. Both mornings began with an all boat fanfare, which clearly generated quite some noise, and the two days were followed with talks by representatives of the Royal Navy; the Marine Police Unit; the Thames Vintage Boat Club; the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships; and yachting journalist Tom Cunliffe as well as historian Adam Taylor. The festival closed each day at 17.00 with another all boat fanfare in the Centre Basin.
Throughout the year many events take place in St. Katharine Docks but even if there’s nothing special going on, the Marina, with its variety of visiting boats and restaurants around the docks, is a welcome escape from the hustle of city life.
Sources and further information
Explore St. Katharine Docks
Discover The Association of Dunkirk Little Ships and the List of all Known Ships
See Dennetts Boatbuilders who’ve been looking after Dunkirk Little Ships for over sixty years.