Brixham’s Golden Hind closes with immediate effect

The replica of Sir Francis Drake’s Golden Hind in Brixham has closed with immediate effect.

A statement posted on the organiser’s Facebook page, on February 14, said the decision had not been taken by those running the ship, adding they had “higher powers to answer to”.

An update on the immediate future of the vessel is due to be shared at 18:00 on Tuesday.

The post said: “Unfortunately the Golden Hind is now closed with immediate effect. This is not a decision we have taken but have higher powers to answer to.

“We will be posting an update on Tuesday 18:00 regarding the immediate future of the ship.

“It’s been an amazing 8 years at the helm, more ups and downs than Thorpe Park.”

The Golden Hind has been a prominent feature on Brixham’s waterfront for decades and is widely regarded as one of South Devon’s best-known tourist attractions, welcoming thousands of visitors each year.

In recent years, the ship began offering overnight stays for the first time in its 55-year history. Guests could book exclusive use of two cabins for one night, with access from 16:00 until 10:00 the following morning.

The double cabin included a king size bed and 60 inch smart TV, while a separate bunk room offered two beds. The experience also included wifi throughout the ship, with streaming services available.

The announcement prompted concern from local residents.

One person wrote: “The golden hind is a big part of Brixham. The pirates weekend is based around it. Hope it gets sorted out quickly.”

Another commented: “This is awful news. We had our wedding pictures and spent the night on the boat.”

The ship is a full-size replica of the vessel in which Sir Francis Drake became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe between 1577 and 1580.

The attraction’s website currently states that the ship was due to reopen on February 14, in time for the half term.

It is not yet clear how the closure will affect those with existing bookings or upcoming events.