Out of the cellar
Rising tides and decay meant the Peggy had to leave the place she had lived for two centuries.
The Peggy is a real boat, built in Castletown in the Isle of Man. Every fact is in our own words with its source linked beside it. Where good sources disagree, we show each version.
Conserving the Peggy is the largest project Manx National Heritage has ever taken on. Manx National Heritage, conservation
Work began in 2009 because of rising high tides in Castletown and signs of decay. MNH statement of significance, 2021
Step by step
In 2013 a new steel cradle was made using a 3D laser survey of the hull. Manx National Heritage, conservation
In 2014 archaeologists dug out the way for her removal and found her original dock. Manx National Heritage, conservation
Excavations found the dock built for her and the remains of a complex dock gate. MNH statement of significance, 2021
In January 2015 she was lifted and taken to a dedicated conservation facility. Manx National Heritage, conservation
She was moved to protect her from decay caused by high humidity and from tidal flooding. MNH FAQs, 2024
Drying her slowly
In the facility the humidity was slowly lowered to 55%, bringing her timbers to 14% moisture. MNH FAQs, 2024
Since 2015 her timbers, fixings, paint and rig have been surveyed and analysed. MNH FAQs, 2024
Coming home?
Manx National Heritage is committed to bringing her back to Castletown, at the heart of a rebuilt Nautical Museum. MNH FAQs, 2024
The plans include a new boat hall where she would be shown fully rigged. MNH FAQs, 2024
In September 2025 the plans were put on hold after a funding bid failed. Manx.News, 2025
Isle of Man Today reported that only a third of the money needed had been raised. Isle of Man Today, 2025
The Enterprise Minister said Manx National Heritage remained fully committed, subject to funding. Isle of Man Today, 2025
A boat that survived two centuries by being forgotten now needs constant attention to survive the next one. We hope she gets back to her own dock.
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