The Humber Keel and Sloop Preservation Society cares for two historic vessels: the keel Comrade and the sloop Amy Howson. Keels and sloops were once the workhorses of the Humber and its rivers, carrying cargoes such as coal, grain and timber to towns and ports along the waterways. Their shallow draft, flat bottoms and distinctive leeboards made them perfectly suited to the estuaries, creeks and locks of the region, while their simple rigging allowed crews to operate efficiently with a small team.
On their dedicated pages, you can explore each vessel’s full story: construction, working life, restoration and ongoing sailing adventures. You’ll also find technical details, historic photographs and insights into the skills required to keep these vessels afloat, offering a window into the Humber’s rich maritime past and the hands-on heritage the Society preserves today.