I had the
chance to Survey another classic Broads Yacht today at Martham Boats. "Aerial" was built by Leo Robinson
of Oulton Broad back in the early 30’s. Originally part of a Broads hire fleet
(and she is included in the 1936 Blake’s catalogue).
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| Any more information on her history from readers would be appreciated. Was she really built for the Hire Fleet, or was she built for a private owner? Some of her curves just look to good for a hireboat... and 'round windows'! |
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| Martham sheds 'cram packed' as usual for this time of year... |
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| Paradise for the wooden boat enthusiasts |
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| The original Baby Blake! |
The Robinsons boatyard became
one of the established names in boat hire business during the first quarter of
the 20th century. By the 1930s, motor cruisers had also begun to be added to
the hire fleets in increasing numbers and other well known yards at Oulton
Broad included W.S. Parker and A. Fuller. Leo Robinson had a good name for
himself and also expanded his business, running the large general stores along
Bridge Road and operating what must have been one of the largest hire fleets on
the Broads before WW2. He produced many promotional postcards which proudly
showed off his fleet, such as the one seen here which dates from the 1930s.
Surveyor’s comments: Well designed and extremely well constructed. Leo
Robinson un-doubtably had some good craftsmen in the 1930s. Any more information on
her history from readers would be appreciated. Was she really built for the
Hire Fleet, or was she built for a private owner?
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