In many respects the UK lags behind other countries in terms of protecting and enhancing floating maritime heritage, strange for an island nation dependent on the seas for her very being.
Smaller but no less significant boats were often left 'high and dry' in Britain's substantial maritime heritage world. A special database has been set up in recent years to help prevent this sad decay by recording historic small boats under 33 foot long and worthy of preservation. Larger craft are catered for on the well established National Register of Historic Vessels.
The award winning National Maritime Museum Cornwall is the headquarters of the National Small Boat Register. The museum also displays a range of small craft. The database is growing, although only represents a fraction of the boats which should be included. If you know of an historic boat that can be saved for the nation then contact the NSBR by following the link below.
Examples might include sailing or motor boats, pulling dinghies, cabin yachts or hovercraft. These may be locally built boats or a famous example of a well~known class. In fact any traditional boat which has been on the water for over 50 years would be a candidate. They can be individually owned or cared for by organisations like trusts and museums. Heather joined the Small Boat Register in 2008.
For further information please visit the National Small Boat Register:
www.nmmc.co.uk/index.php?/collections/content/national_small_boat_register
Or by post to: NSBR, National Maritime Museum Cornwall, Discovery Quay, Falmouth TR11 3QY
