Arctic Corsair named Virtual Flagship of 2022

By Simon Bristow

The sole survivor of Hull's former distant-water, sidewinder fishing fleet, Arctic Corsair, has been awarded Virtual Flagship status for 2022 by National Historic Ships UK.

Competition was strong, with applications received from a range of operational and static craft on the National Registers based on their seasonal programmes and planned level of outreach.

Hull Maritime has been recognised for virtual engagement and the use of technology in creating a wide range of supporting resources relating to the vessel.

The historic trawler closed to the public in 2019 and in response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, a set of virtual learning resources were developed which have enabled Hull Maritime to continue engaging local people and schools with the vessel’s history.

Working with local actor Gordon Meredith, four films were created. Titled Tales from a Trawlerman, they were set on Arctic Corsair, with viewers introduced to key areas of the vessel, such as the wheelhouse, to gain an understanding of the experiences of Hull’s trawlermen.

The videos were made publicly available during the pandemic and are also a self-guided resource for schools. In addition, a virtual model for primary schools was developed, called On Board the Arctic Corsair. This is an architectural model used to give pupils a virtual tour of the ship.

The tour focuses on significant features, such as the fish washer, fish pounds, and fish rooms, with participants also exploring selected artefacts from the Hull Maritime Museum’s handling collections, and a set of archival films.

Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this Flagship status, it recognises our commitment to offering immersive and virtual resources that are accessible for everyone.

“As the restoration of the Arctic Corsair progresses, it is important that we continue to raise awareness of her career and significance within the fishing industry in different and creative ways.”

Hannah Cunliffe, director of National Historic Ships UK, said: “It was a pleasure to see the renewed enthusiasm from operational craft for these awards after the challenges faced during the pandemic, and I look forward to working with the new Flagships as we share our maritime heritage with the public, both physically and virtually, in the months ahead.”

The resources and virtual models will be available at events in the summer and throughout 2023.

Yesterday, Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship were photographed being shotblasted by Dunston’s Ship Repairs in William Wright Dock as part of their restoration for the Hull Maritime project.