New accessible boat to launch on UK’s southeast coast

Freedom Boat Adventures is preparing to launch an accessible vessel on the River Blackwater, on the UK’s southeast coast, following more than four years of fundraising totalling over £205,000.

The cost of building the purpose-built boat is upwards of £375,000, and the organisation is continuing to raise funds via donations.

The project was started during the pandemic by Paul Button and Chris Dawson, residents of Mersea Island in the English county of Essex. The pair say the initiative was intended to address physical, social and other barriers to water access.

The purpose-built boat is designed to accommodate individuals with a wide range of access requirements. It includes a wheelchair-accessible wheelhouse and an onboard toilet, which is not commonly found on vessels of this size. The inclusive design also accounts for individuals with complex needs. Input from prospective users has helped shape features aimed at improving ease of access, comfort and dignity.

“It’s more than a boat. It’s a floating symbol of what a community can achieve when it works together,” said Button. “This vessel has been built not just with specialist materials, but with shared hope, commitment and vision from across Mersea and beyond.”

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Freedom Boat Adventures has attracted support from individuals in the sailing community. Olympic gold medallist Saskia Clark says: “I’ve spent most of my life by the sea, and I know how powerful it can be for wellbeing. Freedom Boat Adventures will open that experience up to so many more people in a truly inclusive way.”

Paralympian and world champion Hannah Stodel adds: “This boat puts dignity and user experience first. Growing up on the east coast gave me the chance to sail. This project could do the same for others and change lives.”

The project team includes Paul Button and Chris Dawson, as well as non-executive directors Sophie Weaver and Sebastian Shillaker. Weaver is an access advocate with experience in inclusive practice across the UK and Europe. Shillaker is a boat builder with decades of experience.

Trained volunteers and crew members from Mersea’s fishing and boating communities will support operations. Adults with learning or physical disabilities will be offered the opportunity to build skills and contribute to running the boat.

Support for the initiative has come from local fundraising and charitable grants. Several businesses have also partnered with the project. Suzuki GB is supplying engines, while Sustain Fuels is providing biofuels. Solar panels will power some of the onboard electronics to help minimise emissions. PE, a technology and business solutions provider, has made a financial contribution towards the final cabin build and fit-out. The funding will also support accessibility features, including a wheelchair ramp to the helm, adaptive steering controls, braille signage and enhanced safety systems.

Freedom Boat Adventures says it will operate year-round, offering educational school tours focused on local wildlife, marine environments and history; public boat tours combining storytelling, seal and bird watching, and the opportunity to steer the vessel; and seasonal activities such as shoreline discovery in summer and sea fishing in winter, structured to accommodate a range of access needs.