BRITANNIA sailing on a reach
Datec 1936
Object number00008507
NamePhotograph
MediumPhotograph on fibre based paper, wooden frame.
DimensionsOverall: 205 × 156 mm
ClassificationsPhotographs
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Alan Griffiths
DescriptionBRITANNIA was one of the most famous of the 18-foot racing skiffs on Sydney Harbour in the pre Second World War period. Built in 1918 by 'Wee' Georgie Robinson, BRITANNIA raced in the 18 footer class for 26 years until the skiff was converted to a starter boat in 1945. BRITANNIA sailed 691 races and won 41 titles and cup races, clocking up a total of 17,000 nautical miles.HistoryBRITANNIA was built at Balmain in 1918 by champion 18 foot skipper and boatbuilder 'Wee' Georgie Robinson. Typical of the era, BRITANNIA was built of cedar and its features include batten carvel hull construction with copper nail fastenings. In the 18 footer heyday of the 1920s and '30s, BRITANNIA was famed for its tremendous sail carrying capacity.
By 1936, the skiff had been racing on the Harbour for over 15 years. BRITANNIA was, by this time, well established as one of the champion racing skiffs of the 18 footer class on Sydney Harbour. The skiff was quite famous, as was its skipper.
SignificanceBRITANNIA reflects the life and achievements of its builder, owner and skipper, 'Wee' Georgie Robinson, a prominent waterfront identity on Sydney Harbour pre World War II. It is also a superb example of the skills of the wooden boat builders during that period.
