Now Boarding: Maritime Museum’s “Little Tall Ship” Breeze

Emma Clark-Dow Reporter from Central Leader

Good morning neighbours,

The Maritime Museum is excited to announce the return of the brigantine Breeze, starting with fortnightly sailings from Labour Weekend, October 22.

Built by the late Ralph Sewell and his family the two-masted sailing vessel was launched in Coromandel, in October 1981.

The Sewells had an agenda: to construct and sail a nineteenth-century coastal trader to be able to teach old-school skills.

“[Breeze] will enable enthusiasts to further their association with the sea and benefit from the company of kindred spirits,” Sewell wrote.

The "little tall ship" has undergone a significant overhaul since its last public sailing back in 2016.

Vincent Lipanovich, Director of the Maritime Museum, said passengers can expect an “energetic and exciting experience” onboard.

“Sailing on Breeze presents such a unique experience for maritime enthusiasts and novice sailors alike – passengers will be invited to roll their sleeves up and experience the thrill of sailing a traditional vessel as they take in the sights of the Waitematā Harbour," Lipanovich said.

The team planned to set sail in January this year, but was delayed due to rising Covid-19 cases.

"It’s such a special boat and it feels wonderful to finally have this vessel available for people to experience and create new memories," Lipanovich said.

Please visit the Breeze page on the Maritime Museum website for up-to-date information. Due to the dynamic nature of the vessel, passengers must be aged 12 and over. Sailings last three hours as passengers explore the Waitematā Harbour.