Legally Exploring the Oceans: Buying and Sailing a Medieval Boat

Ever wondered if you, together with a group of equally curious individuals, could buy and sail a medieval boat across the vast oceans, embarking on adventures similar to those of the Age of Discovery? While conditions and resources have changed over the centuries, there are, indeed, legal ways to engage in this exciting endeavor.

For instance, my brother-in-law partakes in such endeavors, albeit with a ship from a different era. The Danic coast guard ship from 1850 he uses is not a medieval vessel, but it offers a similar experience of maritime travel while ensuring safety and compliance with modern regulations. Furthermore, his voyages take place in more accessible waters, such as the North and Baltic Seas, where the risks are lower, compared to routes with higher fatality rates, like the Cape of Good Hope or the Northwest Passage.

Historical Replicas

Historical replicas, like the Replica Golden Hinde, successfully navigated these waters in the 1970s and 1980s, proving that it is possible to explore the seas in vessels that resemble those from the past. This ship, a copy of the famous Golden Hinde owned by Sir Francis Drake, circumnavigated the globe, showcasing the feasibility of this type of adventure.

Regulations and Requirements

While the legal framework for maritime travel with a replica or a custom-built medieval boat is clear, there are some key considerations to keep in mind. Most countries do not have specific laws regarding what can be put to sea, provided that the vessel is not carrying paying passengers or prohibited goods. However, any vessel, regardless of its size, must start and end its voyage in a port or harbor.

One of the biggest requirements is ensuring the vessel meets modern safety standards. This includes having adequate radio and rescue equipment on board. Insurance is also necessary; for smaller vessels like your own 28-footer, you would need to carry at least ￡3 million worth of third-party insurance to moor it in a harbor. The insurance companies will demand that the vessel has undergone a full survey and complies with modern construction and safety standards. They will also ensure that the crew is suitably qualified for the journey.

No Original Medieval Boats Exist

Unfortunately, there are no seaworthy medieval boats in existence. Any attempt to engage in this adventure would require you to either hire, buy, or commission a replica. Building a replica of a medieval ship is a complex and costly endeavor. For example, the Golden Hinde, currently being refitted in London, is undergoing a ￡1.5 million refurbishment. Even after undergoing modern modifications, these replicas can still travel long distances and offer a taste of historical maritime adventure.

Alternate Options

While finding or building a seaworthy medieval boat may be challenging, there are other historical sailing ships that have successfully traversed the oceans. These ships offer a more practical and legally sound alternative for those interested in maritime exploration.

In conclusion, while there are indeed legal ways to buy and sail a medieval boat, the realities of modern maritime regulation, the cost of construction and maintenance, and the availability of suitable vessels present significant challenges. Nonetheless, with the right resources, a passion for history, and a determination to explore, you can make a bold and memorable journey through the past, evoking the spirit of those famous explorers from centuries ago.