Two Way Traffic

While most of the GRP boats were rushing to get into the water, some of the local wooden boats were just coming out. Provided you keep the rain water out a wooden boat is often better off afloat over winter. Come spring, a quick haul out over a couple of weeks for paint, varnish and anti foul is sometimes all that’s required for the new season.




Just as Greta was launched, our friend’s boat Roma was being brought ashore for painting, anti foul and general tidy up in order to be ready for the 2010 YOGAFF festival in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. Not that she needs too much as owners Mike and Jessica keep her in nice condition as befits her 100 odd years.





Built by Trouts of Topsham in Devon, 103 years ago, I understand she was originally a quarter decked open boat built for salmon fishing, presumably around the Exe estuary. Converted to a yacht in 1919, I believe she’s built of pitch pine on oak frames, with the original elm keel supporting a cast iron ballast keel.

Roma’s Dimensions

LOD - 21’9”
Beam - 8’6”
Draft - 4’6”
SA - 450Sqft

Although built in Devon you could probably describe her as an Itchen Ferry, certainly a classic Edwardian cutter.