Duet

Vessel type		Edwardian Cruiser/Racer
Rig		Gaff Yawl
Specification		Length 21.95m, including spars Beam 3.38m

Facilities

The combined sleeping and dining area on Duet incorporates seating and four berths with most of the remaining berths forward of the galley. Of the 10 passenger berths on board, some of which are very 'cosy', 7 are used for the group. The compact galley is fully equipped with necessary utensils, a small gas oven and hob, a small fridge and a sink. There is one toilet and wash area. 'Cosy’,

Areas of operation

Duet operates a flexible sailing area depending on the demand for her service. She may sail from Ipswich in Suffolk or head up the coast towards Scotland or south to Portsmouth. From here she can either explore the South Coast or sail across the Channel. Duet is a keen competitor in the annual Tall Ships' Race and has been both class and overall winner.

Group numbers

The maximum group number for residentials (including leaders) must not exceed 7, all of whom should be aged 12 or over. We recommend at least one leader within the group or more depending on the needs of the young people. Day charters can accommodate up to 10. The sailing staff includes a Skipper and Mate.

History

Duet is a fine example of a gaff-rigged yawl retaining the features of an Edwardian classic yacht. She is 21.95 metres long (including spars) and has a beam of 3.38 metres. Duet is built of wood with beautiful teak decks and has most of her original high quality fittings including the original rig. One noticeable change however, is the addition of a deckhouse over the aft cabin removed from 'Bloodhound' (Prince Philip's yacht) during modifications in the sixties.

Designed by Linton Hope and built at White's yard on the River Itchen in Hampshire, Duet was launched in 1912 as 'Gaviotta'. In the early 1930s she was bought by Augustine Courtauld, a famous explorer, who renamed her 'Duet'. When he died in 1959, ownership passed to his son, the Reverend Christopher Courtauld who, with Mr Christopher Ellis, formed the Ocean Youth Club in 1960. The Club used Duet for youth sail training from then until 1994.

Christopher has now passed on ownership of Duet to younger members of the Courtauld Family on the understanding she is still operated for the purpose of sail training.

In 2012, Duet celebrated her centenary year by sailing around the UK. The 'Voyage to Success', which received the Inspire Mark in recognition of its links to the 2012 London Olympics, was sailed in 11 legs, each with a different group of young people on board.  Visit the ships b(log) to read about the 'ups and downs' experienced by the young people and the positive impact that results from the challenge of life at sea.

Read the Voyage to Success blog.