Two historic red sailed Thames Sailing Barges heading out along the Blackwater estuary at Bradwell Waterside, Bradwell On Sea, Essex England UK
Image details
Contributor:
EYESITE / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
2JRMBF5File size:
138.3 MB (4.3 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
6022 x 8030 px | 51 x 68 cm | 20.1 x 26.8 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
7 August 2022Location:
Bradwell On Sea Essex England UKMore information:
A Thames sailing barge is a type of commercial sailing boat once common on the River Thames in London. The flat-bottomed barges with a shallow draught and leeboards, were perfectly adapted to the Thames Estuary, with its shallow waters and narrow tributary rivers. The larger barges were seaworthy vessels, and were the largest sailing vessel to be handled by just two men.[1] The average size was about 120 tons and they carried 4, 200 square feet (390 m2) of canvas sail in six working sails. The mainsail was loose-footed and set up with a sprit, and was brailed to the mast when not needed. It is sheeted to a horse, as is the foresail; they require no attention when tacking. The foresail is often held back by the mate to help the vessel come about more swiftly.