Author: bargeyarnsfromtopsail

Since Topsail Charters was established in 1987 by Stephanie Valentine and Paul Jeffries, our belief has remained true that the best way to preserve sailing barges is to keep them working. Carrying passengers rather than coal, grain or straw, has ushered in a new era for barges and has helped ensure their survival. When they were built, few would have thought they would still be sailing into the 21st century.
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The George Smeed

What a momentous Saturday!!!At the Blackwater Barge Match 2018. This is the “George Smeed “ circa 1883 and a well known fixture of Cooks Barge Yard. Having spent most of her rebuild life at Cooks Yard on the Campshed. Ralph, Topsail Charters Shipwrights has worked on her since he was an apprentice 45 years ago … Continue reading The George Smeed

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Syrup Tart

Stephanie director of Topsail writes about making syrup tarts as a special request. They went down so well they may become a permeantfeature. I’ve long had an interest in cooking and food. Indeed before going to uni, I wanted to go to Prue Leiths Cookery School, although there was no way my parents could afford … Continue reading Syrup Tart

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Pinmill Barge Match

This years Pinmill Barge Match saw Ten Vessels turning up to Race. However the Sailing Barges Majorie, Ironsides, Kitty, Hydrogen, Thistle and Victor could also be seen with in the River Orwell. The Race saw the Edme contiue her winning form with her finishing 2 hours ten minutes before any other Barge. The Niagara took … Continue reading Pinmill Barge Match