19th May 2025
The Hull Maritime Foundation has been awarded a £20,000 grant by The Seafarers’ Charity to support the recruitment of volunteer guides with a seafaring background, to help visitors at the restored Arctic Corsair, the UK’s last remaining side-winding trawler.
The funding will be used to engage, recruit, and train a team of 20 volunteers in anticipation of the upcoming opening of this significant maritime attraction.
Arctic Corsair is a vital part of Hull’s maritime heritage, and this grant strengthens the connection between Hull Museums and local seafaring communities. The Seafarers’ Charity is a global organisation that supports those who work, or have worked, at sea and their families. The grant will support retired seafarers in sharing their unique and authentic perspectives on Hull’s rich maritime history with visitors.
As part of a three-year programme, Hull Maritime will work closely with local maritime charities and community organisations, including STAND, Hull Bullnose Heritage Group, Hull Independent Merchant Navy Association and the Fishermen’s Mission, to recruit retired fishermen and merchant navy seafarers. These volunteers will have the opportunity to share their invaluable experiences and insights with visitors, offering a unique and authentic perspective on Hull’s rich maritime history.
The programme builds on the success of previous volunteer-led initiatives at Hull’s other maritime attractions. A dedicated group of volunteers, many with seafaring experience, have already contributed to the conservation efforts and new displays on the Spurn Lightship, Arctic Corsair, and at the Maritime Museum. These volunteers will also continue to deliver guided tours of the Arctic Corsair, enhancing the visitor experience and providing a deeper understanding of the vessel’s significance.
David Atkinson, Chair of Hull Maritime Foundation, said: “We are incredibly grateful to The Seafarers’ Charity for their generous funding and support.
“This grant allows us to expand our work with Hull’s seafaring community and create new opportunities for retired seafarers to stay connected to their maritime roots.
“We look forward to seeing the positive impact that our volunteers will have on the visitor experience at Arctic Corsair.”
Deborah Layde, chief executive of The Seafarers’ Charity, commented: “The maritime sector has a rich heritage in the UK and beyond, and there is no-one better placed to educate the next generation than someone with lived experience.
“Unfortunately, all too often former seafarers can struggle with issues like isolation and loneliness after a life at sea. That’s why this initiative is such a great opportunity for both the volunteers and the visitors involved with the Arctic Corsair.”
A series of drop-in sessions and events will be on offer in the lead up to the Arctic Corsair opening. Hull Maritime and HEY! Volunteering are currently looking for new volunteers to join the team on the Spurn Lightship ready for its re-opening. For more information contact tom.goulder@hcandl.co.uk.
