WANTED - A Privateer
A privateer for one and all
Thrill of the Chase
Cornwall is our base. Historically and in romantic fiction the rugged coastline and hidden harbours have bred hardy fishermen, smugglers and privateers. Privateers were licensed by the Crown to capture enemy shipping.
Britain is a nation proud of its sailing roots, although sadly lacking in sexy sailing vessels celebrating our dashing past. The French have built Le Renard – a replica corsair and outrageous lug rigged bisquine like La Cancalaise – all sponsored by Euro fishing money. The Americans promote civic pride and prosperity by building replica privateers such as the Pride of Baltimore. The UK has vessels whose aim is to promote pride in our maritime history. Alas in many cases the ability to operate them successfully is sadly lacking. By working with many different boats and management styles, we have learned the hard way what not to do and are definite about how it should be done. You have to have a vision and the commercial skills to keep the ships out on the water where they belong.
The Privateer Project
Our vision has flair. We want people like you out there sailing with gusto and verve on authentic wooden replicas or historic restorations. Not a distant display for film crew only, not just a motor assisted trip around the bay, but a ship small enough to be thrown about under sail, create a spectacle coming into port and teach you enough in a week so you can be part of proud ships crew. We want ‘one and all’ to feel they can get out there and pose with the best.
We have called it The Privateer Project because it encapsulates both the exciting style of vessel we are looking for and the way we intend to fund it. Privateers were fast boats built to chase prizes, sponsored and built with private money. They were funded by large numbers of small investors – often locals of seafaring towns caught up in the daring exploits off their coastline. We hope to do the same today. The State might encourage us, but in the UK there are no government or EU funds for purchasing or building ships…and bank managers often lack the dash. Join us for a private venture in adventure!
* Secret Designs? *
The Privateer could be anything from a three masted smuggling lugger to an armed topsail schooner. We have plans for a new build option and are keeping our piratical eye on several tempting craft. What we create on the water will offer all of the best things that we have learned over the last ten years.
She will look gorgeous
She will inspire people
She will cross oceans
There will be the same intimate and shared sailing experience
The food will be fantastic
Everyone will be proud to be a part of her
Become a Privateer!
