21st April 2026
A trial run of the planned journey to relocate the historic trawler Arctic Corsair has been successfully completed, marking a key milestone in preparations for the complex operation.
The trial took place on Monday 20 April, using Deans Marine tugboats and a barge of a similar size and profile to the Arctic Corsair. The convoy travelled from William Wright Dock, along the Humber Estuary and River Hull, to North End Shipyard, closely replicating the route the vessel will take later this summer.
The exercise tested the full navigation passage, including route, timings, tidal conditions, mitigations with identified obstacles and potential challenges associated with the move. Observations and data gathered during the trial will now inform the dredging plans and a detailed passage plan being developed by NASH Maritime, specialist navigational risk experts appointed to support the project.
The trial will help ensure that the relocation of the Arctic Corsair is carried out as safely and smoothly as possible.
Gillian Osgerby, Programme Director for Hull Maritime, said: “This trial run provided a vital opportunity to test every aspect of the planned journey in real conditions. It has allowed us to identify and address potential challenges in advance and gives us confidence as we move closer to relocating this much-loved vessel.”
John Monasta, Associate Director of Beckett Rankine, added: “Moves of this nature are always complex, particularly in a constrained river environment. Completing a successful trial run is a significant step and will allow the final passage plan to be refined to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”
The relocation of the Arctic Corsair to North End Shipyard will be a landmark moment for the Hull Maritime project, bringing the iconic trawler closer to opening as a major visitor attraction and securing its future as an important part of the city’s maritime heritage.
Dredging works are expected to start next month to provide access for the removal of the existing dock gate, installation of the new structure, and the relocation of the trawler.
Further updates will be shared as work progresses towards the vessel’s move later this summer.
