Wheelhouse.
Thistle has been fitted with all the most modern Navaids: radar, Decca, depth sounder, etc, to ensure the safety of the ship. VHF radio is fitted and a mobile telephone is available if required.
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Engine Room.
Thistle traded under sail until 1946 when her first engine was fitted. That was replaced in 1988 by a 180 bhp Gardner diesel, providing the reliability and power necessary for modern chartering.
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Power supply.
Thistle's generator provides a stable 8kW power supply of 240 volts, 50 cycles. The remote location and insulation of her engine room minimises noise which is especially important during static charter.
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Sails.
Modern materials have replaced the old flax sails and hemp ropes. The 3,500 sq ft of sails are light, strong and easy to handle, while the traditional spritsail sail plan remains unaltered.
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Cockpit.
Thistle's unique cockpit provides an area where guests can sit out of the weather, and out of the way of the sails, whether the barge is sailing or under engine.
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Dimensions.
The saloon is approximately 36' x 18' providing ample space for a variety of functions including exhibitions, receptions, product launches, and dinner parties for up to thirty people.
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Forward accomodation.
Two cabins, each with a double bunk, are serviced by a forward lavatory and shower.
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Aft accomodation.
Four two-bunk cabins are placed around the cockpit each with an opening skylight. They are served by two lavatories with handbasins, one of which has a shower.
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Saloon.
Panelled with English cherry and old pitch-pine the saloon has an especially light and airy feel. The open fire at one end not only provides a delightful period feature but also powers the vessel's central heating system.
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Galley.
The large open plan galley boasts all the facilities necessary for cooking gourmet meals, including a gas fired AGA that also provides hot water, a large micro-wave oven, gas hob and gas fridge. The large central work-top doubles as a bar and buffet for
large parties.
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Charter Information.
The Thistle has been carefully designed to be as flexible as possible for a wide variety of charters. Her modern conversion blends well with the essential charm of an old Thames Sailing Barge.
Static Charter.
The large saloon can hold eighty people or more for: Receptions, Cocktails, Press Conferences, Seminars and Business Meetings. When moored alongside, numbers of guests are only limited by space.
Sailing Charters.
Day Charters - Thistle can work from almost all ports and jetties, providing a fascinating day away. Refreshments can be provided to suit the occasion - from bar snacks to gourmet meals.
Weekend charters - Overnight accomodation in comfort is limited to 12, but that allows all the guests on board a chance, should they wish, to participate in the sailing of the barge.
Longer charters - These give the chance to go further afield, and explore the creeks and estuaries that have been the home of barges for the last two centuries. Like weekend charters, they can be combined with seminars or conferences.
Government regulations can limit certain charters to 12 guests, depending on area and type. Thistles' normal limit is about 35 passengers when under power.
The normal charter area is the East and South Coasts of England, but with her strong rig and powerful engine, she can operate anywhere in Europe. Long term charters further away, such as the East Coast of America, the Bahamas and Canada are also possible.
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