Trekka – Back in the Water for 2010 Victoria Classic Boat Festival

Trekka, the Maritime Museum of BC’s world famous little sailing boat will be showcased once again at the upcoming Victoria Classic Boat Festival in early September.  It has been 55 years since John Guzzwell first left Victoria to circumnavigate the globe, and Trekka is still a huge star in the sailing world.

Although Trekka was made locally in the YMCA basement, she enjoys an international reputation. “Trekka is a fundamental part of Victoria’s sailing past and present and an icon in single handed long range voyaging,” says Allan Sibley, Programs and Collections Manager at the Museum. After going through several owners, Trekka returned to Victoria in the early 1980s and now resides with the Maritime Museum of BC as one of their three prized heritage vessels.

Having spent the winter in dry land storage at SALTS, Trekka needs a bit of attention before becoming sea worthy once more. The Maritime Museum has restoration plans underway, “Volunteers that have been involved with Trekka for years are back at it again, working hard to spruce her up for her September debut,” says Sibley.

The restoration process may require a bit of hard labour, but Trekka is easily worth it.  After all, how many other 20 foot sailing boats have circumnavigated the world, not once, but several times?

Trekka still needs help with her restoration to return to the water and the Maritime Museum would gratefully accept donations of time or funds to make this happen. If you would like to assist please complete this Research Request Forms and mail or fax it to:

The Maritime Museum of BC
28 Bastion Square
Victoria, BC  Canada
V8W 1H9

Fax: 250-382-2869