About the yacht

Sir Thomas Sopwith is a 72-foot classic ketch with a story as elegant as her lines — built for purpose, rescued with care, and now a favourite on Sydney Harbour.

Originally designed by renowned naval architect Robert Clark and launched in 1974 from Falmouth, UK, she began life as a sturdy training yacht for the Ocean Youth Club donated by the legendary aviator and America’s Cup yachtsman Sir Thomas Sopwith, whose name she proudly carries.

After years working as a training and cruising vessel she was rediscovered in Pittwater and underwent an extensive, five-year restoration that returned her to classic splendour—blending timeless wooden finishes and traditional styling with modern systems and commercial survey standards. The restoration refocused her as a luxurious, seaworthy charter yacht rather than a workboat.

Today Sir Thomas Sopwith sails Sydney Harbour (and beyond) as a beautifully restored charter ketch: a photogenic platform for corporate events, intimate dinners, sunset cruises and longer coastal adventures. Her graceful teak decks, spacious cockpit and classic profile make her one of the harbour’s most photographed and requested classic yachts.

Elegant, storied and seaworthy — Sir Thomas Sopwith is a living piece of yachting heritage: equal parts history, craftsmanship and unforgettable Sydney sailing experiences.