Cornish pilot
gigs are six oared rowing boats and have been recognized as
one of the first shore based lifeboats, recording rescues
going as far back as the late 17th century. We're not sure
the RNLI would recommend their use in the 21st century and
they are now primarily used for sporting events. They were
named "pilot" gigs because these general working
boats would be used to escort pilots from Cornwall out to
incoming vessels off the Atlantic where the first man to the
ship would get the job - a boat with an interesting story!
The picture below on the left shows the legendary
John Lambert, landlord of the Jolly Sailor on Poole Quay preparing
to row a Cornish gig for charity from Cornwall to Poole in
the Summer of 2010 in aid of several local charities. You
can see their Cornish gig in the picture which was recently
built in St Austell. Yellow ones may be in short supply for
some time!
50cms
Available in white, blue, red and yellow
£25.00 each
£45.00 for 2
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