Black Diamond of Durham

(Yacht) Class C

Black Diamond of Durham is a 10 berth, 45 foot (13,5m) Bowman Corsair Ocean Racer, extremely suitable for Sail Training. Black Diamond will take you anywhere in the world. The vessel has competed in Tall Ships Races every year since 1998.

As a crew member you will get fully involved in running the yacht. This includes: helming, watch keeping, setting sails, use of radar, radio and satellite navigation aides, passage planning, computer skills, use of AIS, cooking and housekeeping. Even if you have never sailed before, the professional crew will welcome you on board for your first trip. They will invite you to become involved in actively running the vessel. If you have sailed before, the crew will encourage you to develop the skills you have and progress to a new level.

History

Black Diamond of Durham was commissioned in 1972 for her original owner, Lt Cdr Lewis RN, who fitted her out to his own specification and raced her on the south coast. In the early 1990s, Black Diamond was purchased by the Farimar Trust who stripped and refitted her for sail training. She was then used in the North East of England for sail training, offering a sailing experience to young people from a disadvantaged background. Black Diamond has not missed a Tall Ships Race since then.

Purchased by Sailing North East in 1999, she has been refitted again for a different type of client - Corporate Entertainment and Teambuilding, along with regular sail training. Black Diamond is well known on the north-east coast of England and along with the Tall Ships Races she often visits Norway, Germany and the Netherlands.

Accommodation

On board trainees will be accommodated in bunks. The forward cabin of the ship makes place for 2 bunks. The main saloon has a total of 7 bunks, of which 4 are permanent curtained bunks, 2 are seats/ bunks and lastly, one cotberth.

What shall I bring with me?

Bring practical clothing and lots of ‘layers’. Wearing layers just means that you’re ready for all conditions and you’ll (hopefully) never get cold. Walking boots, welly’s or sailing boots/shoes are recommended. A sun hat and warm hat are helpful, as is sun cream and waterproof trousers and jackets – you never know what the weather will do. Bring a swimming costume/shorts. Don’t forget your sunglasses! Gloves will be needed for sailing and handling ropes. A note book, sketchbook and novel will keep you busy in between watches. A head torch is handy for night and evening watches. There is bedding however an all-season sleeping is a good idea and an extra warm fleece even if it is the summer.

Oh – don’t forget your camera, you’re going to see some amazing sights!

Specifications