A modern role, working with children
In 1966 the ship was entirely restored and re-rigged to take on a diffirent role as a schoolship under the flag of the East Coast Sail Trust.
Since then thousands of young people have benefitted from the experiences of living and working as crew on Thalatta's five-day voyages.

No previous sailing experience
Just as the old-time crews did when Thalatta was carrying cargoes under sail, the youngsters assist with the working of the ship, taking turns with cooking and cleaning duties below and tasks on deck -

winding up the anchor, setting the great red sails, and taking a trick at the wheel. But they (and their leader!) need not have had any previous sailing experience.

Characterful accommodation
Thalatta's former cargo space has been converted into communal living quarters. The disadvantages of accommodating the children in a warren of small cabins have been avoided.
Teachers and pupils comment on the friendly atmosphere, and the youngsters' hammocks and wooden sea-chests are always a well-loved feature.
For teacher/leader a separate cabin is provided, with conventional bunk and wash-basin.
Cooking in the ample galley is by modern oil-fired stove. There are two conventional salt-water flushed marine toilets. A set of weatherproof clothing and lifejackets is provided for everyone.

Young explorers on a fascinating coast
The ship carries two large ship's boats, each able to carry 8 passengers. These, propelled either by oars or outboard engines, are used to take the youngsters ashore, and to explore coastal inlets and creeks too shallow for Thalatta.

Local studies, adventurous expeditions
The Thames Estuary abounds with things to do and see. Thalatta's educational cruises offer the opportunity for a worthwhile and varied programme of environmental studies. And they give a glimpse back into a vanished age through the memorable experience of living and working on board the finest of the Thames safling barges.
Many of our young crews are school groups, and there is ample opportunity to combine adventure with formal learning. An enormous range of topics crop up naturally during your cruise - from estuary ecology, pollution and fisheries, to North Sea trade and ferries, waterside communities, sea defences, rescue services, maritime history and sea safety sense. Thalatta has a well stocked library and Teachers are given every encouragement and help to pursue topics of their choice during the cruise.

Easing the leader's load
The ship's own well-tried regime, evolved over 25 years, ensures that each day's activities run smoothly. The barge's experienced crew shares the task of supervision.
And remember, they are perfectly accustomed to working with groups (including leaders!) who have no previous experience of sea-faring! Groups are encouraged to keep personal Log Books recording their own experiences and impressions of the voyage.

During the school holidays
It is not only school groups that come aboard Thalatta. In the school holidays Thalatta welcomes parties of young people from the whole range of voluntary youth organisations.
Such weeks provide an adventurous alternative to summer camp. Some of your badge work can be undertaken during the cruise, as can Duke of Edinburgh's Award projects. Visual or physical impairment need not necessarily prevent a voyage aboard Thalatta.

Young visitors from abroad
An adventurous week under sail on Thalatta can be the highlight of your group's U.K- holiday. Thalatta's home port, Maidon, is conveniently situated midway between London and the busy ferry ports of Harwich and Felixstowe.