Garlandstone, Historic sailing ketch in South Australia
Garlandstone is a historic sailing ketch built in 1909 by James Goss in Calstock, Cornwall, and now preserved in South Australia. The vessel measures approximately 76 feet (23 meters) long and 20 feet (6 meters) wide, originally equipped with eight sails distributed across its mizzen, main mast, and bowsprit.
Built in 1909 in Cornwall, this vessel was among the last wooden merchant ships from the region. In 1912, it was fitted with a twin-cylinder paraffin engine, marking a shift toward mechanized cargo transport while retaining its sailing capabilities.
The name refers to an anchorage point on the Cornish coast, connecting the vessel to the maritime routes of its era. It represents the final generation of wooden merchant ships built in southern England, crafted using timber from the Cotehele estate.
The vessel can be viewed externally and offers insights into early 20th century sailing ship construction. Access is best on foot, and visitors should allow time to explore the rigging details and overall hull structure from various angles.
During World War II, Captain Murdoch single-handedly navigated the vessel through a minefield after his crew refused to undertake the passage. This extraordinary act illustrates the extreme decisions made aboard merchant ships during wartime.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
