ProjectJinnie
Jinnie was an oyster skiff built in 1948 in West Mersea for local fisherman Edwin Richard Hayward.
On the Shipyard Estate in Brightlingsea, Essex, the Trust has maintained its boat building ethos by developing a specialist training facility where young apprentices can learn new skills in boat building and the values needed to gain future employment. Along with a base for Pioneer during the winter months, it also provides a quay and fuel barge facility for working vessels.
The story of the Essex smack, Pioneer, is a long one and she is unique in being the very last of the larger size Essex smacks to survive, although only her bottom and parts of her other structure were salvaged as a basis for reconstruction.
The Trust’s apprentices are key to the production of the gigs, built in the yard year-round, overseen by an experienced, qualified and talented boat-builder.
The income made from selling the gigs goes towards supporting our Apprenticeship Scheme.
Production of the gigs supports the Trust’s outreach and connection with the local community.
The Pioneer Sailing Trust was set up in 1999 to restore back to sailing condition the last remaining first class Essex Skillinger smack Pioneer. She was another example of Britain's Maritime Heritage left to perish.
Pioneer Sailing Trust,
Harker's Yard,
Shipyard Estate,
Brightlingsea,
CO7 0AR
© Pioneer Sailing Trust 2026. Registered charity with the Charity Commission for England & Wales. Charity No. 1077522.
Affiliate Links
