1897 Classic Gaff Cutter

• Pitch pine
• Last surveyed 2004

• BMC 2.2 35hp diesel

• Gaff cutter rig
• Tan mainsail with cover
• White foresail
• Second white foresail (new)
• Jackyard topsail (new)
• Wykeham-Martin roller reefing genoa
• Multiple sheet winches for all halyards and sheets
• Main runners fitted with Hyland levers

• 6 berths in 3 cabins

• 80lb CQR anchor
• Dolly winch with 3/8th chain

This is a very spacious, full bodied vessel. Steps down from the good-sized cockpit lead into the central companionway, with the galley fitted to port. This provides a cooker, fridge, sink (with pressurised instant hot, from a gas heater, and cold) and storage lockers. Opposite this is the navigation area, which has a chart table, storage lockers and a pilot berth. Going forward, the main saloon is divided from the galley/navigation areas by a half-bulkhead and provides two full-size berths on extreme beam plus 2 settee berths, one full size and the other three-quarter. There is a drop-leaf table located in the centre of the vessel, and a solid fuel stove, this being located adjacent to the three-quarter berth. Forward again, a full bulkhead divides the main saloon from the wash-room (to port) and the toilet (to starboard). A further full bulkhead divides the heads area from the fore cabin. This stretches from the mast almost to the stem and provides 2 full-sized bunks, one of which is about 3ft wide and over 7ft long. The vessel has a period feel, and all fittings, d’cor, etc., are in keeping with this. It is understood that the interior is mainly varnished with panels picked out in pastel green. Recent work has included re-upholstering in a green patterned cloth and varnish-work. In 1997 she was re-fasted as a precautionary measure.

It is understood the vessel was surveyed at the end of 1996 and was found to be in A1 condition (copy of the report can be made available for inspection if required). Built in 1897, ‘Romilda’ worked solely under sail until 1928, this work encompassing carrying stone for monasteries, munitions to the Somme in the First World War, and more latterly as a supply ship for Light ships. In 1928, she was converted into a gentleman’s yacht, with an auxiliary engine being fitted at that time. She was originally called ‘Pom Pom’ but this was changed by admiralty Court Order in 1928 to ‘Romilda’ as it was felt that, radio having recently been introduced, her name could be confused with the ‘Pan Pan’ emergency procedure. In 1995 it is understood she was purchased by a shipwright, following which an extensive refit was carried out. She has thus been the subject of considerable, and sympathetic, work during her life. Although not personally inspected, she looks and sounds to be a beautiful vessel. We understand, however, that she is now in need of some work. Her exterior was repainted in 2002, but unfortunately needs further attention after standing outside during the winter, and her interior would also benefit from being repainted/varnished. Her electrics have been stripped out, but could be reinstalled prior to sale, subject to the sale price. Her mast was re-stepped in 2003.

Further historical details, written by the owner in 1997, are available upon request.