Nordlys Returns to Lowestoft: Proud to Play Our Part in a Piece of Maritime History

Recently, we donated copper to a local project working on the Nordlys—a vessel built right here in Lowestoft back in 1887. That copper was used to patch holes in her hull, and we’ve just had the fantastic news that she’s now back in the water. It’s not every day you get to say you’ve helped keep a piece of history afloat!

A Ship with a Story

Originally named Jubilee (LT129), the Nordlys was built by Allertons of Lowestoft and was known as a ‘converter smack’—a clever design that allowed her to work as both a trawler and a lugger. She’s believed to be the last surviving example of her kind.

Over her long career, she fished the North Sea, transported goods along the Norwegian coast, and even sailed as a cargo ship carrying wine and olive oil across Europe. More recently, she returned home to Lowestoft after many years away, ready for a new chapter.

More Than Just a Boat

The Nordlys isn’t just a beautiful piece of craftsmanship—she’s part of our town’s identity. Her restoration means future generations will be able to see, sail on, and learn from a genuine link to our fishing and sailing past. The plan is for her to become a sail-powered marine biology research vessel, keeping her active on the water while also contributing to important environmental work.

Our Small Role in a Big Project

When we heard about the restoration work, we wanted to help however we could. Donating copper may seem like a small gesture, but in this case, it was vital for sealing and repairing sections of the hull. Without these repairs, she couldn’t have gone back into the water.

Seeing the pictures of the patched hull and the Nordlys floating once again was a proud moment for all of us here at GasCare. It’s proof that when the community comes together—even in small ways—we can help keep our shared history alive.

A Community Effort Worth Celebrating

We’re grateful to the team leading the Nordlys restoration for letting us play a part in this journey. This project is a reminder that history isn’t just something you read about—it’s something you can touch, repair, and even sail.

Welcome home, Nordlys. Here’s to many more years on the water.