About the registers
There are currently over 1,000 vessels on the National Register of Historic Vessels and over 400 vessels on the National Archive of Historic Vessels. The databases include details of designer, builder, dimensions, construction, propulsion, service history, current location and ownership, as well as images of many of the vessels.
The registers provide an authoritative assessment of the significance of historic vessels. The database can also be used to identify and prioritise vessels that should be preserved, provide guidance to decision-makers on the allocation of funding, and give an early warning of ships 'at risk'. The database can also be a useful research tool, although confidential information about ownership etc. is always kept secure.
The National Register of Historic Vessels (NRHV) contains a sub-group of vessels - those which comprise The National Historic Fleet. These vessels are distinguished by:
- being of pre-eminent national or regional significance
- spanning the spectrum of UK maritime history
- illustrating changes in construction and technology
- meriting a higher priority for long term preservation.
The National Historic Fleet may also include vessels from the National Small Boat Register which are a minimum of 50 years and which fit the above criteria.
Over 57% of historic vessels recorded on the National Register of Historic Vessels are either privately owned or commercially operated. Museums and charitable trusts account for 14% of the total.
The National Archive of Historic Vessels (NAHV) contains details of vessels previously on the NRHV which have been broken up, lost or when it has not been possible to contact owners for a considerable period. The NAHV also contains details of some vessels which do not fit the NRHV criteria (in particular the age criterion) but which nevertheless have the potential of joining the NRHV at a later date because of exceptional historical significance.
We have recently introduced The Overseas Watch List (OWL), a list of vessels overseas which are of considerable UK significance. In most cases they were built and operated in this country, and then sold abroad. Being outside the UK they do not qualify for registration, but holding information on these and similar vessels is important as we are often consulted on them. The Overseas Watch List also holds information on vessels registered on the NRHV when they were in the UK but which since have migrated.
We have also developed a database of builders who have constructed vessels on the NRHV. At the moment it includes details - where known - of builders who constructed three or more vessels, but this will eventually be expanded to be more comprehensive. There are several gaps in our knowledge and we would be grateful for any additional information.
For frequently asked questions about the National Register of Historic Vessels, please click here
