October Newsletter

A busy time for the boatyard with lots of boats to crane out and storage space filling up quickly.

New team

We are into the full swing of craning boats out and it is progressing very well. We are enjoying the increased space on the yard form the ground works undertaken during the summer and the new team has really got into the swing of things. Luke Jones has taken over from John Henderson who has gone on to pursue other interests. Luke has come to us from Fugro Seacore where he ran three of their yards and was responsible for modular and drilling plants and has brought skill and precision to the crane operation. Luke also previously worked at Macsalvors doing precision lifting with their large crane fleet. Joining Luke is Jerome Pickles, a highly skilled engineer who now also lives on the yard. The office team has been supplemented by Amber Tresahar, keen classic boat sailor and owner of Kittiwake. A qualified lawyer and former Kirov Ballerina, Amber has brought a lot to the yard already. Her background makes her well suited to the demands of Gweek Classic Boatyard. Anne Oliver has now been with us for over 6 months and has brought significant order to the day-to-day operations on the yard. We have a great team ably assisted by Gemma and Tammy in the office and we look forward to the upcoming season.

The Boatyard Cafe

It seems only a short time since we were gearing up for the spring and summer season and Falmouth Classics already seems a distant memory. The cafe has been a resounding success and we have to congratulate Susie Goodwill on what has been achieved. Gweek Classic Boatyard is becoming more of a destination as the project progresses.

The cafe has moved to winter opening hours. They are now licensed and will be open late on the first Friday of every month from 6.00pm onwards with a wood fire, music, drinks and food on offer.

Monday - Saturday 0930 -1630
Sunday 1000 –1300 for breakfast only. 

Interns at Gweek Classic Boatyard

We had two French interns during September who brought a cheerful atmosphere to the yard. We would like to continue a structured intern programme and offer holiday internships to one or two local boys or girls. This could start as an initial trial but become something more regular. It is open to local young people and they must be 16 or older. Passion for boats and sailing will be preferred but attitude will be the most important deciding factor. CVs should be emailed to mark@gweekquay.co.uk. 

Constance II

The yard has recently acquired a share in an exciting classic boat. Constance II was originally owned by the Shuttleworth collection and was built in 1895. The boat was used to shuttle crews form the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes to the racing yachts in the Solent. Constance II will be restored over the winter and is planned to be offered for charter next season.

The boat is electric, having been converted from steam, and is now outside the chandlery. Pop down and have a look and enjoy a coffee in the cafe. 

Chandlery revamp & other news

We are welcoming new boat builders to the yard and I plan to be able to update you in our next newsletter. The chandlery is being revamped and has a new layout. Old stock has gone into a boat jumble with some great prices on weird and wonderful products. English Braids are restocking our ropes and we have an improved selections of paints and antifouling. Seaware of Falmouth have been most helpful in getting us re-established and providing a fast delivery service. If there is anything you need we can normally obtain delivery next day. The new fork lift has been rebuilt by Malcolm and is now undergoing final testing before being used. 

Winter storage is booking up quickly so be sure to contact the office on 01326 221657 or info@gweekquay.co.uk.

We have now owned Gweek Classic Boat Yard for over a year. It has been exciting and challenging in equal measures. Our customers and partners in the community have been a major support and we thank you for the helpful pointers along the way. We are not there yet by any means but we continue to advance. We have new boat owners at Gweek for the winter season and we are enjoying welcoming back our regular customers. Thank you for helping to make the boat yard a vibrant part of the boating community. 

Kind regards,

Mark Aichroth and Malcolm Beaton