Welcome to the LV18 lightvessel in Historic Harwich
We suffered an arson attack in February 2024. Donations are being sought to support the full restoration.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/lv18-restoration-fund |
| The ship is now closed until the end of March 2025.
We can still open the ship to pre-booked visitors but this is fully dependent on volunteer availability and the weather; please phone Tony on 07446171320 before you travel to the ship and give us at least a few days notice. Our summer season finished in the middle of October when we hosted acts from the Harwich Shanty festival on board.  ‘Landlubbers’ photo by Shiraz Turvey  Shantyman Chris Roche. Photo by Shiraz Turvey The LV18 re-opened to visitors on Saturday 25th May 2024
The LV18 was busy with DJs in August for our 2024 Pirate Radio Weekend. Joining us included Keith Skues (pictured above), Stephen Foster, Steve Jenner, Paul Windsor, Garry Lee and many more! Visit our radio site for the full schedule and information.
On Friday 2nd February 2024, a fire engulfed the stern of the LV18 lightvessel but almost the entire ship also suffered severe smoke damage. Essex Police have identified and prosecuted the arsonist.
Cleaning and initial renovation took some time, and it was almost 4 months before we could re-open the ship to visitors. However, early prioritising of the cleaning meant that we were able to use the Mi Amigo studio for shows over the Easter weekend – marking the 60th anniversary of the start of offshore broadcasting. Landmarks for our restoration are being chronicled on a new page After The Fire Donations are being sought to support the full restoration. https://www.gofundme.com/f/lv18-restoration-fund |
Restoration & other updates are available on our News page
Welcome aboard
The ex-Trinity House vessel LV18 is the last surviving example of a manned light vessel in British waters, which has been preserved in its original configuration and restored to a high standard of authenticity.
The Pharos Trust
The LV18 is owned by the Pharos Trust, a charity set up to preserve this important piece of maritime heritage, which is always ready to accept new volunteers with interest and enthusiasm, whether contributing expertise, restoration or maintenance skills, artefacts, ideas or financial donations.
Usage
The LV18 has already hosted various events, from Offshore Pirate Radio revivals to shanty singing and onboard exhibitions. Now that it has a permanent home at Harwich Quay it will be made available for a range of other functions. Most recently the ship’s lantern has helped enhance a number of quayside festivals.
Opening times
LV18 is open daily from 11am to 4pm between April – October. During the winter we are open to pre-arranged visits only, please call (number below) if you wish to make a booking.
Admission
Adults: £4.00 Children (under 16): £2.00. Family ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children): £10.00 & now also accepting all major debit cards
To arrange groups and evening tours call Tony on 07446171320,