Year: 2009

Can anyone help find the first 5.5 Metre class racing yacht The Deb?

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5.5 Metres race at the Helsinki Olympics in 1952 (image taken from the Wikipedia)

British National Yachting Archive (BNYA) project officer David Elliott has been in touch to appeal for information about the 5.5 Metre racing yacht The Deb. Apparently she was last seen sailing with the Castle Cove Sailing Club, Weymouth.

A little investigation reveals that she is a particularly important 5.5 Metre. The International 5 Metre Class website reveals she was the first example of the class to be built in 1948 by Camper & Nicholson, and that since 1998 a cup named in her honour – The Deb Cup – has been presented to the winner of the first race in the world championships.

A Wikipedia entry for the 5.5 Metre class says that Charles Nicholson designed the 5.5 metre in 1937 as a cheaper alternative to the 6 Metre class.

If you have any information please contact David at david.elliott@bnya.org.uk or post it using the comment link below.


Photos of Hathor under sail

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Hathor sailing on the River Ant, on the Norfolk Broads

Kind HBBR member Ian Ruston has sent in some shots proving that Egyptian-style wherry yacht Hathor is indeed still sailing the Norfolk Broads.

Just look at that magnificent sail – it must be an awesome sight if you see her coming your way on the river.

For more on Hathor, click here.

A stroll along the Deben

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Dinghies on the Deben

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Concertina player and occasional songsmith Alan Day is one of those unfortunates who would enjoy boats and boating – if only their seasickness were less severe.

Alan tells me he gets seasick standing in a puddle, but his affliction hasn’t prevented him taking this series of photos along the banks of the River Deben in Essex a few days ago. I must say it looks charming and I look forward to visiting by water sometime.

Note the name of the old wooden motor cruiser in the final photo. I gather it belongs to a local man of the cloth.

If anyone can add any information about the boats in the photos please, I’d be most grateful!

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