Keeping history sailing
Switch off, relax and watch the world go by as you cruise the sparkling waters of the Broads aboard one of Norfolk’s last remaining wherries
Forming a rich tapestry of vast skies, undulating landscapes and 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways, the Broads National Park is one of Norfolk’s greatest treasures. Famed for its beauty, history and wildlife, this breathtaking man-made marvel attracts almost eight million visitors from all over the world every year.
One of the most distinctive features of the Broads is its small community of charming wherries, traditional sailing boats that have been gracing the network of winding waters since the 18th century. These elegant wooden wonders started their lives as humble cargo vessels before becoming pleasure boats in the Victorian era, offering a magical way to explore the beauty of the area.
They were once a vital part of local commerce, but there are now only eight wherries left in existence. Instilled with a passion for keeping history sailing, the devoted team at Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust are responsible for maintaining and restoring five of these. Offering an exciting array of chartering experiences, from day trips to weekend stays, they take pride in preserving these priceless pieces of Norfolk’s maritime past.
The Rolls Royce of the Trust’s historic fleet is the magnificent Ardea, Latin for heron. Measuring an astounding 65ft long and weighing 32 tonnes, she is famed for being the largest pleasure wherry ever built. Ardea is also considered to be the most luxurious craft in the care of WYC, with her grand stateroom, varnished teak panelling, and spacious foredeck exuding comfort and class. Turning heads and capturing hearts every time she sets sail, Ardea is a treasure with a fascinating story to tell.
Crafted by skilled boatbuilder Leo Robinson in Lowestoft, Ardea was commissioned as a pleasure wherry for wealthy philanthropist Howard Hollingsworth, who was a partner in the renowned Oxford Street department store Bourne and Hollingsworth.
Ardea was launched in September 1927 and remained on the Norfolk Broads for 30 years before travelling to France to serve as a houseboat on the picturesque banks of the Seine. She was later bought by a Parisian Madame, who allowed her employees to spend their spare time relaxing onboard. After being abandoned for a while, she was used as a charter vessel around the canals of France, Belgium the Netherlands and Germany - covering 5,000 miles of inland waterways over a period of three seasons. She resumed her role as a houseboat and a private family retreat before returning to her native waters for restoration in 2005.
Within 11 months of leaving Paris, the rejuvenated Ardea was ready to glide across the glistening waters of the Broads once more. She is currently sailed by Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust, which is dedicated to celebrating the splendour and significance of the surviving Norfolk wherries.
“These stunning and historic boats are living museum pieces, and with care from our expert craftsmen and enthusiastic volunteers, we intend to keep them sailing,” says Andrew Scull, Chair of the Trust. “Our purpose is to generate sufficient funds to ensure that the heritage of our wherries and the skills required to maintain them are preserved for future generations to admire. Sailing with us is not only a relaxing and unforgettable experience, it allows you to play a vital part in keeping history afloat.”
A trip on a traditional Norfolk wherry is a unique way to soak in the beauty of the Broads, offering visitors a tranquil journey through time and heritage at one of England’s most captivating National Parks. Operating a programme of day sailings and private charters from May through to September, Wherry Yacht Charter takes pride in providing exciting and enjoyable experiences to fund the preservation of their precious boats. Bespoke charter trips are ideal for special occasions and memorable holidays, offering exclusive use of a luxurious pleasure craft along with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable crew.
Ardea continues to form an important part of the Trust’s inspiring fundraising initiatives and her layout has allowed the team to enlarge its repertoire of chartering options beyond the day sailings, day charters and longer sailing holidays that have been conducted by its wherries for years. She boasts the largest saloon and galley of the fleet, which the Trust intends to make the most of this season by offering a new programme of Sail & Dine charters from Wroxham. These trips will enable guests to indulge in quality refreshments onboard, ranging from afternoon teas and buffets to lavish fine dining options for up to eight people. Whether you fancy a fabulous three course lunch, a spot of coffee and cake or an early dinner with wine after enjoying welcome champagne and canapes, these extravagant new experiences are not to be missed!
“Joining us for a summer charter provides an opportunity to escape the bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the calming environment of one of Norfolk’s most magical attractions,” says Andrew. “It’s a truly special way to keep the heritage of these elegant Edwardian vessels alive. On a sunny day with the wind in your sails, there’s simply no finer place to be!”
To book a trip or discover more about WYC and how to support them, visit wherryyachtcharter.org
