What is the National Register of Historic Vessels?
The NRHV is a database of vessels which:
- were built in the UK and are at least 50 years old.
- were built outside the UK but were used for a specific UK purpose between 1939 and 1945.
- are over 40ft (12.19 metres) in length (not including bowsprit).
- are based in UK waters.
- are substantially intact.
- have extraordinary maritime importance.
There are currently over 1,200 vessels listed. The database includes details of designer, builder, dimensions, construction, propulsion, service history, current location and ownership, as well as images of some vessels.
What is the purpose of the National Register of Historic Vessels?
The NRHV, created and maintained with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund, English Heritage and the National Maritime Museum, provides an authoritative assessment of the significance of historic vessels. The database can also be used to identify and prioritise vessels that should be preserved, provide guidance to decision-makers on the allocation of funding, and give an early warning of ships 'at risk'. The database can also be a useful research tool, although confidential information about ownership etc. is always kept secure.
Within the NRHV there are two important sub-groups:
- Core Collection
- Designated Vessels
The Core Collection (CC) are historic vessels which:
- are of pre-eminent national importance.
- span the spectrum of achievement of UK maritime history.
- illustrate changes in construction and technology.
- merit a higher priority for long term preservation.
- merit a greater degree of support.
There are currently 60 vessels in the Core Collection.
The Designated Vessels (DV) list is of vessels which:
- are of substantial heritage merit.
- may be of more vernacular significance.
- may be of greater regional or local significance.
- merit support ahead of other non-Core Collection vessels.
There are 152 vessels on the Designated Vessels list
Over 57% of historic vessels recorded on the Register are either privately owned or commercially operated. Museum's and charitable trusts account for 14% of the total.