Tug Brocklebank was a real gem to board and discover
THE highlight for many of the weekend’s celebrations were the ships that came to the town to mark Drogheda’s historic seafaring past.
The Earl of Pembroke was so big it couldn’t fit under the Viaduct but the rest did, includng a majestic St Petersburg built replica of the Shtandart, a sail training ship and which featured in the 2015 film ‘ Peter and Wendy’.
But for pure enthusiasts, it was hard to match the Liverpool tug boat, the Brocklebank.
Built over 50 years ago, it was purchased by the Liverpool Maritime Museum and now sails to various locations, but this was the first time in Drogheda.
Manned by 12 volunteers, all ex seamen, they gladly regailed their visitors with stories of past trips and adventures.
It usually takes 12/14 hours to come from Liverpool to Drogheda, this time the boat having to take shelter on its way on the Isle of Man.
Their biggest moment - probably when they guided the Britannia into Liverpool with the Queen and Prince Philip on board.