Dutch sailing barge built 126 years ago and brought back to life by Co Down woman sets sail for fundraising voyage

A Dutch sailing barge built in 1898 has set sail from Co Antrim offering its passengers the opportunity to focus on a “slower pace of life”.

The 126-year-old ‘Drie Gebroeders’, which was lovingly restored by a Co Down woman, is making its voyage to Inverness in a fundraising challenge in support of a mental health charity.

Known as the ‘Barge for Wellbeing’, the boat set off from Carrickfergus Marina this week making its way along the Antrim Coast to Rathlin.

It will then head across the Irish Sea to make the trip around the coastline of Scotland to Inverness.

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Barge owner Hilary Hunter from Portaferry brought the vessel back to Northern Ireland two years ago, but has lived on it for almost 10 years.

Drie Gebroeders, meaning three brothers, began working life on the waterways of the Netherlands in 1898, carrying cargoes of farm produce, manure and bricks with a family-of-six sleeping in the small area which is now the engine room.

When World War II broke out the barge became the property of the invading German army, but survived to continue work after the conflict until transformed into a houseboat around 20 years ago.

Ms Hunter said the mission for the epic trip was “focused on slowing down the pace of life and taking a break from everyday life”.

It is also aimed at raising funds for the charity, Inspire Wellbeing.

“We have assembled the motley crew of the Drie Gebroeders from all ages and sections of the community - we all share the spirit of spontaneity,” said Ms Hunter.

“Some members join as often as jobs and family allow, others less often, but everyone enjoys the tranquillity of being out on the water.

“Whilst the core crew for our big adventure this year is settled, there is still room for more adventurers to join in for a few days of the journey or several weeks.”

Danielle Sheridan from Belfast-based charity Inspire Wellbeing, said: “The ‘Barge for Wellbeing’ is more than a fundraiser, its helping raise awareness that your mental health matters.”