Historic sailing trawler Vigilance of Brixham cleared for passenger cruises ahead of centenary celebrations.
The heritage sailing trawler Vigilance of Brixham has passed its final safety inspection and has been cleared to carry passengers, paving the way for the start of public cruises this summer.
The vessel celebrates its centenary in 2026 following a major four-year restoration project costing almost £2 million. Funded largely through grants from the National Heritage Memorial Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project has returned one of Brixham’s most iconic vessels to sailing condition.
Built at the renowned Upham shipyard in Brixham in 1926, Vigilance was the last sailing trawler constructed in the town and is now listed on the UK Register of Historic Ships.
Today the vessel is owned and operated entirely by volunteers. Chair of Trustees Rob Murray said: “To see Vigilance’s iconic red sails once again in Tor Bay is genuinely emotional. This vessel is an important part of Brixham’s maritime heritage and bringing her back to life has been a remarkable achievement by our volunteers, supporters and funders.”
He added: “Things are now moving at pace. We are recruiting skippers with a commercial endorsement to join our existing team and we have begun crew training – familiarising the deck crew with the boat after a four-year break. As we increase our sailings, skippers with the commercial qualification are invited to contact me with a view to joining the team. We expect to welcome passengers on board from mid-July. We are looking forward to sharing this unique experience with local people and visitors alike.”
The restoration included extensive work at specialist shipyard Stirling & Son in Devonport, where the vessel received a new hull and deck. She now combines historic character with modern navigation, communications and safety systems, together with upgraded onboard facilities for passengers and crew.
Moored at Brixham Harbour’s Heritage Pontoon, Vigilance will offer three-hour sailing cruises around Tor Bay, providing passengers with a unique opportunity to experience a traditional sailing trawler while enjoying views of the English Riviera coastline.
“A trip aboard Vigilance is more than a cruise,” said Murray. “It is a chance to step aboard a living piece of maritime history and create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Further information, sailing schedules and booking details can be found at www.vigilanceofbrixham.co.uk
