Historic lugger’s lights shine bright in harbour for Christmas switch-on

THE crowds gathering to see Newlyn harbour’s Christmas lights switched on this year had a treat when the historic sailing vessel Barnabas was also lit up as part of the festivities.

- by CORNISHMAN REPORTER

Rob and Pax McDowell on board Barnabas, above, and below, the historic lugger lit up in Newlyn Harbour

Moored against Old Quay, the 144-year-old dipping lugger was silhouetted by a firework display, an appropriate climax to a year which has seen her win two awards.

In 2025 Barnabas, maintained and sailed by the volunteer-led Cornish Maritime Trust, has won Classic Boat magazine’s Centenarian of the Year title and National Historic Ships UK’s Flagship 2025 status.

Almost 700m of lights adorn the historic vessel, sponsored by audiovisual hire firm the Cornish Camera Co., Newlyn Harbour Lights and TLC Electrical Supplies.