Gravesend Bawleys

Fiddle is one of the last remaining Gravesend Bawleys.  Built in 1860, she fished for nearly 100 years before being converted to a comfortable cruising yacht in the 1960’s.

It is believed that Fiddle was constructed at G Bauckhams yard on the site of the old Coal Wharf, Gravesend, probably by a legendary local shipwright , George Waters, some time in the late 1850’s or early 1860’s. Several clinker Bawleys of the same size were constructed in Gravesend at this time including Lilian, Highland Mary and Charlotte.  All of these, including Fiddle are well referenced in numerous text books, many of which are still in print.

Fiddle was registered as LO 155 and fished under sail alone, trawling for shrimps predominantly, in the lower reaches of the Thames estuary from the 1860’s right up to the start of WW2 when shrimping had to stop due to a protective barrage in the Thames.  It is believed that her first auxiliary engine was installed in the 1930’s.

After the end of the war, she was sold and transferred to Whitstable to dredge for oysters and re-registered to Faversham with the number F124, which she still displays.  She was then taken down to Brixam, Devon in the late 1950’s/early 60’s and has remained in the West Country ever since.

Bawleys are generally loose footed cutter rigged with disproportionately tall top-masts to catch the higher breezes, often encountered in estuaries and river sailing.  With this rig, the mainsail can be brailed up to the mast allowing exceptional control in congested waters.  They are shallow drafted with a wide beam and pleasing lines.  Fiddle maintains this original form of rig with a long bowsprit, tall topmast and loose footed main.

Fiddle is currently moored in The Floating Harbour at Bristol. She has been under the guardianship of the current owner for the last 10 years during which time she has undergone significant restoration work and routine maintenance under the guidance of Mark Rolt at Bristol Classic Boats.  Recent work (2022-23) has included significant replanking, repairs and renewal of deck beams, complete rebuild of fwd coachroof and complete re-decking. Repaint and overhaul/varnishing of spars.  Standing rigging replaced by Traditional Rigging (Bristol) in 2016.

Unfortunately the current owners are now unable to complete their plans to retire early and enjoy sailing Fiddle at their leisure.  Consequently, they are seeking to find sympathetic new owners who will appreciate this beautiful, historically important, yet unassuming vessel.  Fiddle will only be sold to the “right” purchaser.

For further information, a full specification/itinerary contact adam@cloote777.plus.com