Iconic sailing boat finds new home in local waters

Sir Francis Chichester was the first sailor to complete a solo, one-stop circumnavigation of the globe on the vessel in 1966-7.

Previously owned by the Gipsy Moth Trust, the vessel has been purchased by Leicester Tigers chairman Peter Tom, and Little Big Hotels owner Ian Walker, as an attraction for Guernsey.

Gipsy Moth IV will soon provide an opportunity for young sailors on the island to learn about how far yacht design has come in the last few decades.

‘I was happy to help when Ian approached me with the wonderful idea of bringing Gipsy Moth IV to Guernsey as an educational and tourist attraction.

‘We’re working hard to support the growth of St Peter Port’s maritime economy and take our responsibility as her new custodians seriously,’ said Mr Tom.

The vessel will be made available to the Guernsey Sailing Trust for educational activities in addition to participating in the island’s sailing calendar.

‘Peter and I are both keen on nautical history and sea stories don’t get much better or more compelling than Sir Francis Chichester’s record-setting 1966/7 voyage,’ said Mr Walker.

‘We’re very pleased that the Sailing Trust’s young mariners will have the opportunity to sail in Gipsy Moth IV from her new home and benefit from their hands-on experience with history.’

Sometime near the beginning of September, the boat will be sailed to Guernsey by Mark Terry, yard manager at Boatworks+.

It will be assessed and repaired as needed.

‘This iconic boat and its record-setting commissioning skipper remind us what can be achieved through skill and determination,’ said Mr Tom.