Commercial Unit - IBTC Heritage

Escape's Deck Work Tidemill wheel with staff Lydia Eva

The commercial unit was initially set up to carry out work which did not sit readily into the college’s training remit. Over the past 6 years it has grown considerably earning an excellent reputation for wide ranging and classic projects. From a major restoration of a 43’ 1936 Redningskoit, re-decking and rebuilding the aft cabin, wheelhouse and mizzen mast of the Lydia Eva to building a new oak wheel for Woodbridge Tidemill.

Should a particular project have both commercial and training elements then they are costed and charged separately. The commercial unit is staffed independently of the college thus student labour is not used on any commercial project, however half of the commercial staff are IBTC graduates. The commercial unit undertakes new build and restoration in wood using both modern and traditional techniques.

Over the coming months and years it is our aim to build on existing relationships with local businesses, charitable bodies and trusts; in order to establish a hub of heritage boatbuilding skills and resources here in Lowestoft. With the already well established presence of the Lydia Eva and Mincarlo Trust, The Excelsior Trust and Slipways run by Safety Boat Services, the MTB 102 Trust and with facilities to hand such as Sea Lake Marina, Newson’s boat yard, The Haven Marina, Lowestoft Marina and Smalls dry dock, Lowestoft is well placed to fulfil this role.

Contact us with your enquiry or call in to see Gary, Jon or Nat at 6 Sea Lake Road. We will be happy to discuss your requirements and where necessary visit your vessel to provide a comprehensive and definitive quotation.