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This weekend marked another significant milestone in the preservation of Weymouth’s rich maritime heritage.

During a ceremony held aboard MV Enchantress, Phil Warwick, Chief Executive of the Royal Naval Sailing Association (RNSA), formally presented the Association’s crest to Kevin Jones on behalf of Weymouth Maritime Heritage Community Interest Company, owners of the historic vessel, which is operated byCoastline Cruises.  RNSA is a registered charity that delivers sailing for personnel serving in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, and the Maritime Reserve Forces as well as their families. RNSA has nearly 5000 members with Veterans at its heart.

The presentation recognises Enchantress’s service to the Royal Navy during the Second World War. It is believed that the vessel undertook cable-laying operations and assisted in the deployment of anti-aircraft barrage balloons in Weymouth Bay and Portland Harbour, contributing to the defence of this strategically important naval base.

It is hoped that Enchantress’s association with the Royal Naval Sailing Association will open new opportunities to research and uncover more of the vessel’s wartime history. At the same time, it will help ensure that the historic links between Enchantress, Weymouth, Portland and the Royal Navy are preserved and celebrated for future generations as an important part of both local and national maritime heritage.

The partnership also aims to strengthen ties with the Portland Branch of the Royal Naval Sailing Association. It is hoped that Enchantress will play an active role in supporting the branch, helping to maintain and promote the Royal Navy’s traditions within the local community.

From today, MV Enchantress will proudly carry the Royal Naval Sailing Association crest, symbolising her recognised wartime service and enduring connection with the Royal Navy.

Together with MV My Girl, Enchantress forms part of the living maritime heritage preserved byWeymouth Maritime Heritage Community Interest Company. Rather than remaining static museum exhibits, these historic vessels continue to operate on the waters they once served, allowing residents and visitors alike to experience an authentic part of Britain’s maritime history. Through their continued operation, the CIC is ensuring that the stories of Weymouth and Portland’s remarkable naval and maritime past continue to be told, appreciated and preserved for generations to come.