Crowdfunding Call - Getting Raybel re-rigged!

A message to all friends and supporters of Raybel

Today is a big and slightly scary moment in the Raybel restoration story. After coming so far - and having raised nearly £600,000 forthe work to daye - we are short by around £15,000.

To try and fill that gap we’ve launched a new crowdfunding call towards the costs of: -

• putting the masts, rudder and leeboards back onto Raybel

• re-rigging and fitting the sails

• internal fit out: electrics, plumbing and galley

• buying essential navigation and H&S equipment

For every £1 donation we will contribute another £1 to reach the overall target of £30,000.

There's been huge progress with the restoration of Raybel since 2020 - with all the major work to frames, hull and decking fully complete. We've raised nearly £600,000 for the work, and are immensely grateful for the support of the Heritage Fund, Swale and Kent Councils, the Swires' Trust and Queenborough Fishery Trust. Now there's just this final phase to do.

Since forming Raybel Charters in 2018, we've also ....

• established a pioneering sail cargo import and distribution business in Kent and London

• run a huge array of community and creative events for people of all ages

• provided training and volunteering

• created a new community space at our base on Lloyd's Wharf, Sittingbourne

• begun a project to clean up the water quality of Milton Creek.

 If you love what Raybel Charters is doing, and *IF* you can afford it, we very much hope you will support this campaign

We don't run a membership scheme as we only want our supporters to donate as and when they are can. The money we raise will always be used for our core purposes ..... we have no salaried staff and only pay people through project income.  

There are a number of rewards and incentives for different levels of donation – from the sought-after Raybel sail cargo t shirt, to 'sail with us' vouchers.

**** in addition ****

For donations above £100 through this call-out campaign, we will be offering a sail cargo meal on board in Spring 2025!

Many thanks