HISTORIC THAMES SAILING BARGE GRETA PARTNERS WITH WHITSTABLE BAY TO CELEBRATE 130th ANNIVERSARY

It has been 130 years since Thames Sailing Barge Greta embarked on her first voyage, and to celebrate the special anniversary, the Greta team is partnering with Whitstable Bay – the award-winning beer range from independent brewer Shepherd Neame – to offer an exclusive giveaway.

One lucky winner and a guest will be treated to a limited edition Whitstable Bay High Tide Afternoon Tea experience, and have the opportunity to spend a day trip on board Greta for a special tour of the Red Sands WWII Army Forts in the Thames Estuary or a leisurely trip up the Swale, taking in the coastline and shorelines off Faversham and the Isle of Sheppey. 

A boat steeped in history, Greta was charted by the Ministry of Supply during World War II and is one of the few surviving – and oldest still sailing – ‘Little Ship’ that took part in the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940, bringing Allied soldiers back across the Channel. Shepherd Neame has been a long-term sponsor of the 80ft Thames sailing barge, and its 1,500 sq ft red ochre mainsail features the Whitstable Bay logo. 

Skipper Steve Norris said: “We are delighted to be working with Whitstable Bay to celebrate Greta’s special anniversary this summer. We are grateful that Shepherd Neame has sponsored our Little Ship once again this season, ensuring that we can keep her on the water and allowing us to share this iconic barge with more people.

“Greta spends her winter in Faversham for essential maintenance and repairs, and then is moored in South Quay Whitstable Harbour from April until October. Funds raised from the chartering is ploughed back in to keeping Greta shipshape, seaworthy and keeps a small part of important marine history available for people to enjoy. We have a dedicated volunteer crew that help with maintenance in the winter and support with the charters throughout summer and are always on the lookout for new members!”

Built in 1892, Greta has been operating as a private charter barge for over two decades, sailing throughout the summer season to create a unique experience with trips to the Red Sands Forts or into the Swale to see rare wildlife including local seal colonies.

To find out more about Greta and book a trip, visit: www.greta1892.co.uk or find their stall at Whitstable Maritime Harbour Day on 14 August in the Horsebridge Centre.