Sail Cargo and exploring the Wash
Sail is still one of the most efficient ways to harness a naturally energy source into propulsion. By harnessing the power of the wind, cargo can be transported along the north Norfolk coast and beyond with minimal use of fossil fuels. This helps protect the environment, reduces road congestion, and lessens the impact on our seas.
Victorious, our 42' fishing smack, was one of the last vessels built for cargo delivery under sail in the Wash. Her fine bows were designed for tacking up the tight channels and a broad midsection for stability on the sandbanks at low tide. Her powerful gaff cutter rig and traditional red sails allow her to sail in the lightest of winds.
The Coastal Exploration Company takes paying crew members, enabling us to charge a competitive fee for goods transported on par with road freight. With rising energy costs and an uncertain power supply, this concept is more relevant than ever.
Our Sail Cargo Route
Currently we run two regular cargo sails each year; one in the spring and a second in the autumn:
The route is from Fosdyke to Kings Lynn, then on day 2 to Wells- Next-the-Sea and then on day 3 back to Fosdyke. This route is experimental and therefore flexible.
We use it to keep CEC HQ supplied with the charter food and drink that we purchase from Kings Lynn, but it is also a chance for you to join the cargo run and or ship your goods sustainably.
Interested in our next shipment or have a question? Let our team help
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+44 (0) 7817 307551
Sustainability
Over 90 percent of world trade is carried across the world’s oceans by some 90,000 marine vessels. Like all modes of transportation that use fossil fuels, ships produce carbon dioxide emissions that significantly contribute to global climate change
Sail power is the most efficient use of a natural energy source and so we aim to harness this free energy source and reducing the use of our diesel engines.
Our coffee is shipped from Colombia in a schooner, we roast it in Kings Lynn then sail it to our HQ.
Victorious
The 42' Victorious will be our flagship vessel for carrying cargo under sail and of course she was deigned with this purpose in mind; to carry fish from the fishing sites then back to Kings Lynn for the markets.
Victorious was built in 1923, the end of the golden age of sail. Her hull was made as efficiently as possible to enable her to work in light winds without an engine and yet quite flat in the mid section so she could dry out on the sand banks. Perfect for the open North Seas, allowing us to also consider sails across the North Sea and beyond.
Norfolk Carbon Charter - silver level
We have been awarded the Carbon Charter - Silver Level for our sustainable business practices such as a) our use of sail power and electric engines which are charged from panels at CEC HQ, b) sourcing of food and drink items from within 28 miles of our HQ and c) our efforts to delivery cargo under sail.