The Cutty Sark is a British clipper ship launched in 1869. She is most famous for her record-breaking trips between China and England and for her unique design. The Cutty Sark was designed to be the fastest ship in the world. She held this title for many years until she was overtaken by steamships. The Cutty Sark is over 150 years old and has had an eventful life. She has been used as a training ship, freighter and museum ship.
history of the Cutty Sark
The Cutty Sark was built at the Dumbarton Shipyard in Scotland and was originally named the Donald McKay after the owner of the shipyard. She is designed like a tea clipper, with sharp lines and large sails to make her fast and manoeuvrable.
The Cutty Sark made her maiden voyage in 1870, sailing from London to Melbourne in 99 days. She quickly became known as one of the fastest ships at sea and set many records for her voyages between China and England.
In 1892 she was sold to Captain John Woodard, who named her Cutty Sark after a mythical Scottish witch. Under Woodard’s ownership, she continued to set records and navigate the trade routes between China and England.
The Cutty Sark was finally retired in 1922 and moored at Greenwich as a training ship. In 2007 she underwent an extensive restoration and is now open to the public as a museum ship.
the Cutty Sark today
The Cutty Sark is today a popular tourist attraction in Greenwich, London. The ship has been preserved as a museum ship and is open to the public for tours. It is wise to wear good, sturdy shoes during the visit because there is a lot of walking involved.
opening hours
10am – 5pm
how do you get there?
Dockland Light Rail to Cutty Sark