Latest News
The Thornycroft family's importance for early powerboat racing and fast naval patrol craft is illustrated with hundreds of photographs loaned to the Museum's archive. Test tank models from the 1900's show hull designs that remain avant garde today, and are on display at the Gallery in East Cowes.
Copies of Ray Wheeler's profusely illustrated history of the Saunders story in East Cowes, 'From Sea to Air', are now in stock at the Gallery.
Events
Saturday/Sunday 4, 5 September. Exhibiting at 'Wolverton Manor Show'.
Saturday / Sunday 14, 15 August. Exhibiting at 'The Garlic Festival'.
Wednesday 11 August. 'Free Entry Open Day'. 10.30am - 4.00pm. Newport Museum.
Welcome to the Classic Boat Museum & Gallery
We are an exciting and award winning all weather attraction based on the waterside in the Isle of Wight. We are able to offer a fascinating collection of sailing and power boats of local and national interest to both family visitors and maritime enthusiasts alike.
Open throughout the year, our displays also include photographs, films, tools, artefacts, models, books and many other items associated with the history of boating over the past century. From unique trophies loaned by Dame Ellen MacArthur to classic wooden boats of international renown, we have something of interest to both children and adults.
The Museum opened its doors in Newport in 1996 with just a handful of boats, however it now has more than 50 craft available for visitors to view. From notable sailing boats such as Uffa Fox's Airborne Lifeboat, Lord Brabazon’s autogyro rigged Bembridge Redwing and 'Coweslip', the Flying Fifteen belonging to HRH Prince Phillip, to everyday dinghies, canoes and rowing boats, as well as elegant river craft and powerboats. Over the years many painstaking restoration projects have been undertaken, which have lead to some prestigious awards and an outstanding reputation.
Fax: 01983 533505