Visitors to Wells quayside are hoping the former Dutch sailing ship, Albatros, which is used as a bar, restaurant, music venue and B&B, reopens soon.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Ton Brouwer is the captain of The Albatros in Wells. Picture: Ian BurtTon Brouwer is the captain of The Albatros in Wells. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant © 2014)

The 33m-long ship has become a familiar landmark and tourist destination for visitors to the north Norfolk town, and is permanently moored alongside the quay.

Built in 1899 as a North Sea clipper, it is owned by Ton Brouwer, who said: "We are closed for maintenance at the moment."

He did not wish to elaborate further and would not say how long it would be closed.

People have taken to social media to express their disappointment at the news.

Fakenham & Wells Times: Ton Brouwer is the captain of The Albatros in Wells. Picture: Ian BurtTon Brouwer is the captain of The Albatros in Wells. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant © 2014)

One woman said: "The Albatros attracts a lot of tourists- it's unique - hope it soon opens."

Another person said: "Sadly, we came to Wells hoping to have a pancake on the Albatros and saw the notice it was closed for maintenance. Gutted."