Centaur Connections

Aim

The restoration of Thames sailing barge Centaur which was built in 1895

The Thames Sailing Barge Trust own and operate the historic Thames sailing barge Centaur which was built in 1895 by Cann's of Harwich. She has been owned and operated by the Trust, a registered charity since 1968. Centaur is on the National Historic Fleet and is a Dunkirk Little Ship.

Centaur is in need of major restoration and the Trust has received a grant of £28,090 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to complete the Development phase of the Centaur Connections Project. The Trust are looking to raise £10,000 towards their costs for this Development Phase.

Centaur Connections will see the Trust restore Centaur and create a series of community activities to get hands-on:  learning about our superb barges, their heritage, and the skills that are needed to sail them and keep these iconic red-sails in full working condition and part of Maldon's skyline!

The Trust has been in operation since 1948 and has a tried and tested record in keeping not one, but two sailing barges in operation. Amongst the many things we do, we have a respected training scheme for skippers and mates which means that we will have experienced crew available to sail the barges into the future.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 9th August 2026 at 4:05am