The Classic Boat Centre Trust

Discover the Classic Boat Museum
The Classic Boat Museum in Cowes and East Cowes showcases the Island’s history of yachting, shipbuilding, and maritime technology. For 25 years the Classic Boat Museum has been building its collection of extraordinary craft: dinghies, yachts, power vessels, lifeboats, and objects relating to seaplanes, naval vessels, and hovercraft. It houses thousands of photos, plans, drawings, artefacts, books and magazines that reveal the rich maritime heritage of the Medina Valley, the Isle of Wight, the Solent and beyond. Well regarded nationally and internationally as well as appreciated locally, the museum seeks to collect, preserve and display a diverse selection of boats and maritime artefacts that will give the visitor an interesting and engaging experience and be an invaluable resource for enthusiasts and historians alike. Recent digitisation has increased the accessibility of this unique collection and promotes and encourages the appreciation of our maritime heritage.

How we serve the community
We welcome all people from all backgrounds into the museum. We are creating a community hub for locals and a welcoming space for visitors to the Island. We offer wonderful opportunities for volunteers of all ages to join our team. Many are retired people looking for social contacts and an opportunity to use their skills. Others are just starting out and are looking to get some work experience or contribute to their Duke of Edinburgh Award. Whatever your stage in life, however little or much time you have – you are all welcome to join our happy team.

Volunteers needed

The Classic Boat Museum is run by volunteers, and we need more! You do not need to know about boats to help us, why not come for a coffee and chat to see how you could make a difference doing something new and exciting.

What your gift could provide

£10

Keeps the volunteers in tea and coffee and biscuits for a week

£30

Pays for the internet connection for one month

£100

Pays for a school visit to the Museum

Fundraise for us!