What is special about the Thames barge?

The Thames barge inherited the sprit rig from Holland. The sprit is a spar which looks rather like the jib of a crane and is attached to the foot of the mainmast and stretches diagonally across the mainsail to an eye fitted in the upper/outer end of the sail.
Another Dutch inheritance is the leeboard - fan shaped baords, one on each side of the hull. As described by the name, the board which is on the "leeward" side of the barge (particularly when sailing unloaded) is lowered to enter the water beneath the hull, thus providing a false keel and aiding the sailing capabilities of the barge.

CAMBRIA leaving Whitstable 1964

CAMBRIA at Greens Mill Maldon 1961

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