Clyde Charters' 50th anniversary Sugar Boat trips

Clyde Charters is running trips from James Watt Dock Marina to MV Captayannis to mark 50 years since the ship - known as the Sugar Boat - foundered in a storm. 

People who have signed up for the tours will experience the voyage on board a former windfarm crew transfer vessel which is being revamped by Clyde Charters in time for the official touring season, starting in April. 

The boat has capacity for 12 passengers, is wheelchair accessible, has a toilet on board, and has a section of indoor and outdoor space. 

The team are working on adding a cafe to the vessel which they hope to have up and running by the spring. 

Crew member Ross Holmes says it was important for Clyde Charters to run the commemorative journeys. 

He told the Tele: "The sinking of the Sugar Boat had a big impact of the people of Inverclyde and people will have a lot of memories of that day. 

"We want to pay tribute to the boat and allow the people of Inverclyde to share their stories. 

"Running these voyages shows we recognise how much this event meant to people."

Passengers will hear a talk about the history of MV Captayannis before they travel out to the historic shipwreck. 

They will even get the chance to reach out and touch the side of the boat. 

Ross says the vessel used in previous journeys, Tonka, is still very much part of the family at Clyde Charters but said the team are thrilled to unveil the new boat. 

Crew member Nina Holmes said the commemorative voyages will be a good prelude to the start of the season. 

She added: "Once we're properly up and running in the spring, we're hoping to strengthen the good relationships we have with local businesses and make new connections. 

"There are really strong maritime connections in this area, and there's potential for us to start running more trips."

*A limited number of tickets are available for the Saturday voyages. 

To book visit www.clydecharters.com/our-tours/