Back to search results
Boy Leslie
Ever gone on a sailing spree across the sea in a 1900s boat? If there is anything in Arendal that could give you this experience, it is Boy Leslie! This boat was once a sailing trawler and is now protected by the National Heritage Board as a cultural monument.
Owned by the Foreningen S/K Boy Leslie today, Boy Leslie has been a port attraction for the last 40 years. This vessel holds Arendal’s pride by being a representation of how the city was once a shipping town. The Norwegian Maritime Directorate has also certified it as a passenger ship and is now maintained by youth activists.
It was originally built in 1911 for fishing purposes and was operated by William Bellamy, a local fisherman. The boat witnessed much of World War I and is currently one of the last sailing trawlers in operational condition. It was sold to Norway in 1939 after an industrial shift from sails to steam. It went through a series of owners and renovations until it made a permanent stay at Arendal.
If you plan a special trip in Arendal, Boy Leslie is available for bookings for fjord tours, weekend trips, and cruising along the Sørland coast. It is frequently used during school holidays for activities involving children and the youth. Boy Leslie is also rented by private individuals for parties, businesses for meetings, and as a venue during festivals and cultural events.
Boy Leslie is certified to accommodate up to 50 passengers and frequently conducts summer cruises along the stunning coastal landscape. It is currently involved in a beach cleaning cruise for youngsters aged 14-18 years. They have taken the responsibility to clear Arendal’s archipelago and Raet National Park. This is a good opportunity for environmental activists to spread the message of saving aquatic life.