Iconic Galleon on Steamer Quay Heads Off For A Major Refit

The popular playship (as pictured above) was commissioned by Bridgetown Alive! and ‘launched‘ on 16th February 2013.

After 12 years of constant service to a fleet of vigorous, energetic young people (and not so young people!), it is now due for some major repairs.

The original boat builder – Ashley Butler – will undertake the repairs at his boatyard near Falmouth. In view of his intimate knowledge of the boat it was determined that he should carry out the refit.

Bridgetown Alive! are grateful for the free and generous services of our local building suppliers, InterLine , for their provision of a crane to lift the galleon from its current moorings onto a low loader for its onward voyage to Falmouth.

It is anticipated that the galleon will be out of commission for about a month will then be re-instated for continued fun and games. The cost of the refit is about £20,000; £10,000 came from SHDC play park maintenance fund and £10,000 from the developer’s contribution.

To purchase a replacement play-ship off the shelf would cost about £50,000 plus.