Owners of the classic sailing yacht Gipsy Moth IV, Rob Thompson and Eileen Skinner announced the launch of their new charity The Gipsy Moth Trust today at 2011 Panerai British Classic Week in Cowes.
Launch of the Gipsy Moth Trust - Classic charter yacht Gipsy Moth IV gifted to charity
Regarded as a part of British maritime heritage after Sir Francis Chichester sailed classic yacht Gipsy Moth IV around the world in 1966-67, Rob and Eileen want to give the boat to charity as a gift to ensure it is safeguarded for the nation and can continue to provide opportunities for the public to learn about her historic significance.
Rob Thompson says “We both remember Chichester coming home, the glory and the pride it made us feel. We want Gipsy Moth to have a higher profile again. The Gipsy Moth Trust will not only do that but also preserve the history and memories of her for future generations to enjoy.”
Since purchasing S/Y Gipsy Moth in October 2010, Rob and Eileen have worked in partnership with maritime charity UKSA to begin to ensure that the boat is both available to the public to view and is used as a tool to give disadvantaged or disabled young people the chance to broaden their horizons and change their lives through sailing.
The Trust aims to continue this work, with Gipsy Moth regularly attending events such as Panerai British Classic Week, Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week and the ASTO Small Ships Race. At each event there will be opportunities for schools, youth groups and members of the public to view Gipsy Moth, including getting onboard and below decks.
The Trust will also continue to work with UKSA to engage with young people through schools and youth groups to provide opportunities to learn to sail or to link a visit to Gipsy Moth IV sailing yacht to the schools’ curriculum.
“The other important thing for us as we launch The Gipsy Moth Trust is the continuing relationship with UKSA. We want Gipsy Moth IV to be part of the inspiration and work they carry out to help change young people’s lives.”
In order to contribute to the running costs of the boat for the future and its charitable work, Gipsy Moth is available for businesses, groups and individuals for charter during the events she attends, as well as throughout the year.
Whether you’re team building, impressing clients or have something to celebrate with friends and family, sailing on Gipsy Moth offers a day to remember with this unique experience.
The Gipsy Moth IV yacht is available for yacht charters and for school or youth groups to spend time aboard or sailing the boat
Gipsy Moth IV is a key part of national maritime heritage. In 1966 – 67, Sir Francis Chichester sailed her singlehanded around the world in 226 days.
In March 2011, owners of the boat Rob Thompson and Eileen Skinner sponsored the Outstanding Progress Award at UKSA’s Celebrating Achievement Awards. The award went to Josh Stickland for his approach to learning, teaching and progression. Josh now works as a Yachtmaster on a luxury motor yacht.
