Logo for Arctic Corsair

Step aboard this deep-sea trawler and dive into Hull’s maritime history

Reopening 2024.

From fishing trade to fisherman’s tales, catches to conflict, the Arctic Corsair has many a maritime story to tell. 

Now, thanks to an ambitious restoration project, the Arctic Corsair will reopen to reclaim its place in Hull’s maritime history.

Restoring an icon

The restoration of Arctic Corsair is part of Hull Maritime, a transformational project led by Hull City Council and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Find out more about the history of this vessel, its restoration and the wider Hull Maritime project.

Arctic Corsair

A brief history of The Arctic Corsair

Built in Beverley in 1960 for the Boyd Line, the Arctic Corsair is Hull’s last surviving sidewinder trawler. She was part of the city’s deep-sea fishing fleet for many years, and an important vessel in the nation’s trawling industry.

During her time on the high seas, the Arctic Corsair travelled huge distances, did battle in the Cod Wars and recorded a world record catch! She was finally retired in 1987 after a long and successful career despite the decline of the local fishing industry.

In 1998, the Arctic Corsair moved to a berth on the River Hull, next to Streetlife Museum. She opened to the public in 1999, offering a fascinating glimpse into life aboard an iconic fishing vessel.

The Arctic Corsair closed again in 2018 as part of the Hull Maritime project. She's now undergoing restoration with Dunstons Ship Repairs at William Wright Dock. The trawler is due to reopen to visitors in 2024.

Tour the Arctic Corsair

The Arctic Corsair may be closed for restoration. But that doesn’t mean you can’t take a look aboard! Here’s a tour of the ex-trawler with former skipper Jim Williams.

An engineer’s view

Take a closer look at the engineering on board Hull's iconic deep sea trawler, with Former engineer Pete Greenwood.

Maritime Guided Tours

Our sites may be closed for refurbishment, but you can still explore Hull’s maritime heritage with these special guided tours. Tours are delivered by White Badge accredited volunteers every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

A woman and a girl taking part in a craft activity.

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