Supporting Local Heritage: The Restoration of the Gamecock Oyster Yawl

At Reclamet, we’re proud to support local initiatives that preserve history and protect our environment. One recent project we’ve contributed to is the restoration of Gamecock — one of the last surviving Whitstable Oyster Yawls.

Currently being restored by Whitstable Maritime, a dedicated local charity, Gamecock is a remarkable piece of maritime heritage. These traditional sailing vessels once played a vital role in Whitstable’s famous oyster industry. The ongoing restoration is breathing new life into this historic yawl, and we’re excited to follow its journey back to the water.

Whitstable Maritime isn’t just focused on restoring boats — they’re also making a difference through education and community engagement. Here are two standout projects they’re working on:

• Maritime Curriculum – A programme tailored for Key Stage 4 to 6 students, offering hands-on work experience and increasing awareness about the challenges and opportunities facing local marine life. It’s a brilliant initiative for inspiring the next generation of marine conservationists and engineers.

• Heritage Coastal Trail – A curated walking route designed to help residents and visitors explore Whitstable’s coastline, uncover its rich maritime history, and better understand the local environment. It’s a great way to connect with the town’s past and natural beauty.

Supporting projects like these aligns with our values of sustainability, community involvement and preserving the past for future generations. We’re proud to contribute and encourage others to get involved too.

If you’re passionate about maritime history, marine conservation, or simply want to give back to the local community, Whitstable Maritime would love to hear from you. Visit their website to find out more about their work — and maybe even volunteer or donate.

Let’s keep our coastal heritage alive.