Rivers And Waterways
Thames Sailing Barges
During the 19th century sailing barges became the most important cargo vessels on the Blackwater and east coast rivers and would generally ply their trade along the east coast to London.
These vessels with their tan sails would carry hay, straw and grain up to the capital to feed the growing numbers of horses that were used. In return they would bring manure and used straw back to Essex. These cargoes were generally referred to as 'London mixture'.
At the height of their popularity around 1860, there were over 5,000 sailing barges along the east coast between Kent and Essex. Today, there are no more than 35 of these vessels left and probably no more than 25 in sailing condition. 12 of these call Maldon their home port.
Hythe Quay at Maldon is home port to the largest fully rigged sailing barges, and on any week day up to 10 of these vessels can be seen along the Quay.
The majority of barges which frequent Hythe Quay at Maldon are available for charter. For further information, please visit:
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