For the first time since arriving in Greenwich in 1954, visitors to Cutty Sark will be able to climb the famous masts.

‘The Rig Climb Experience’ will launch at the ship on 2 April. Starting with a briefing underneath the ship’s beautiful hull, those that are brave enough to take on the challenge will step up from the main deck onto the ship’s ratlines and climb up its shrouds, just as hundreds of sailors did during Cutty Sark’s long and fabled career at sea.

Visitors will traverse one of the ship’s lower yardarms before reaching the tops platform and taking in magnificent views, while standing amidst the rigging of a true London icon. Climbers will then experience something that not even the ship’s crew did: a controlled descent from the rigging, down to street level aside the ship. This exhilarating end to the experience will provide a unique view of Cutty Sark and give participants something truly extraordinary.

Image: @NationalMaritimeMuseum

Cutty Sark made its name as one of the fastest tea clippers of its day, and this was partly down to the modern engineering techniques behind the rigging. To help the ship reach speeds of 17 knots, Cutty Sark had over 11 miles of rigging, an original sail area of 32,000 sq. ft. across 32 sails, and a main mast standing at 152ft. By taking part in this new exhilarating new experience, visitors will be able to gain an insight into what life would have really been like at sea and hear tales from the crew about the treacherous conditions’ sailors would have had to work in.

Emma Massoud, General Manager of Cutty Sark, said: “We are so pleased to be able to offer such an exciting and authentic experience at Cutty Sark. Now our visitors can get an insight into what it would have been like to be a sailor in the 1800s. It goes against all your survival instincts to be up that high but if you like an adrenaline rush and beautiful views, this is the experience for you. The sunsets from up on the rigging, with the red skies over London sites such as St Pauls Cathedral, Tower Bridge and The Shard, are truly spectacular.”

There are two different experiences on offer at Cutty Sark: the Cutty Sark Rig Climb Experience and the Rig Climb Experience Plus.

  • Standard Rig Climb prices start from £41 for adults and £26 for children.
  • Plus prices start from £51 for adults and £36 for children.

These prices include general admission to Cutty Sark, meaning you can take part in the climb and explore the ship on the same day. Tickets also include all safety equipment and free storage of personal items. Peak prices apply during weekends and school holidays.

The Cutty Sark is located in Cutty Sark gardens; a short walk away from Cutty Sark DLR and within walking distance of Royal Museums Greenwich’s other sites, the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House and Royal Observatory Greenwich.

Tickets go on sale at RMG.co.uk on 1 March 2022

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