Faramir

Vessel type		Wood Ketch
Rig		Bermudan
Specification		Length 22.35m Beam 5.26m

Facilities

The vessel has a well designed and spacious, centrally heated living area. The saloon has a dining area with seating for all on board plus a galley situated to one side. The galley is equipped with two chest fridges (for longer voyages one can be used as a freezer), two gas cookers, hot and cold running water and all necessary utensils. Sleeping accommodation consists of 14 bunks situated in sets within different areas of the vessel. There are two toilets and wash areas with running water. No shower.

Areas of operation

Faramir starts and ends her season in Ipswich, Suffolk but from late April to June she usually operates from Newcastle for coastal voyages and occasionally longer sea passages to more distant ports. In July and August, Faramir often sails further afield, either to compete in The Tall Ships' Race or to explore the west coast of Scotland before returning to the north east for September and October.

Group numbers

The maximum group number (including leaders) for sail training voyages must not exceed 14, all of whom should be aged 12 years or over. We recommend at least two leaders within the group or more depending on the needs of the young people. For private charters and adult day sails the maximum number of passengers on board must not exceed 12. The sailing staff includes a Skipper, Mate and often a Third Hand.

History

Faramir, a Ketch with a length of 22.35m and a breadth of 5.26, was designed by Marine Architect David Cannell in 1982, specifically for use as a sail training vessel for an organisation called Shaftsbury Homes & Arethusa, from where she gained her name, 'Arethusa'.

In 2002, after many years of service, during which she developed a following of loyal sailors, Arethusa was sold on to another sail training organisation who changed her name to 'Bulldog'. Not being able to fulfil her potential, her owners sold her to The Cirdan Sailing Trust in January 2006.

Being absolutely ideal for the work undertaken by The Cirdan Sailing Trust, she was purchased to replace the vessel Hartlepool Renaissance which had to be retired from service at the end of the 2005 season. Finding it necessary to change her name again, the vessel was renamed Faramir after Cirdan's sister charity with which it joined forces in 2002.

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