The Albatros returns to home port of Wells-next-the-Sea

The Albatros' 32-hour voyage from Essex to Wells-next-the-Sea began yesterday (July 19) at 1pm, and she is due to arrive in port this evening. 

Bob 'Rob' Richardson onboard The Albatros which has been travelling up from Essex to Wells since lunchtime on July 19 (Image: Bob 'Rob' Richardson)

After the 140-mile journey the Dutch sailing klipper will be seen in Wells for the first time since 2020.

It follows the purchase of the ship by Bob 'Rob' Richardson from former captain, Ton Brouwer, and an extensive restoration project.

This stunning photo was captured by photographer James Crisp, he took this photo on his drone as The Albatros passed by Bradwell-on-Sea on the River Blackwater yesterday, July 19 (Image: Crisp Photography, https://www.crisp-photo.co.uk/)

READ MORE: The Albatros ship to return to Wells-next-the-Sea

Speaking from the ship, Mr Richardson said: “It is all good on the Albatros. The engine and boat is all good with the steady thump thump of the low revving diesel and engine checks every 30 minutes.

“The current and state of the sea is calm but with a slight swell, and the weather has been good.

The Albatros before it left on its journey from Essex to Wells (Image: Bob 'Rob' Richardson)

“We made really good time out of the Blackwater and for a period before we had the tide against us, then a period of slow speed over the ground but made good coverage overnight."

The crew has done watches of three hours on and off watch, and they had breakfast near Cromer.

Bob 'Rob' Richardson (Image: Bob 'Rob' Richardson)

Mr Richardson had delayed the journey back to Wells while he waited for an engine part, which put the brakes on the project's final touches.

The ship is due to arrive back in Wells at 9pm (July 20).

Robert Smith, Wells harbourmaster, and his team will escort the Albatros back to the quayside.