In the Barge Centre, a new two-masted barge is being constructed, measuring 23 meters in length, 9 meters in width, and featuring two masts. Our aim is to launch the new ship in the spring of 2024 when Tartu is the European Capital of Culture.
The Emajõe-Peipsi barges were unique wooden sailing ships, relatives of the Hanseatic cog, which were first built for these waters in the 14th century during the era of international transit and Hanseatic trade, as Tartu and Peipsi were connected. Unlike Hanseatic cogs, which were soon replaced by more modern ships at sea, barges were used on Lake Peipsi even after the Hanseatic era until the Second World War. These medieval-style ships survived on Lake Peipsi for over 600 years like dinosaurs in an inaccessible plateau! After the Second World War barge building died out on Lake Peipsi.
In 2006, under the hands of the Emajõgi barge Society, the first reborn barge was launched - 12 meters long and 7.5 meters wide. It was named Jõmmu. By now, Jõmmu has transported more passangers than there are habitants in Tartu in the Emajõgi River and Lake Peipsi, paving the way for new and larger barge. Everyone is welcome to come to Tartu to the Barge centre to witness the construction of the new barge, and support the barge construction with a feasible donation.
The shipbuilding hall can be visited on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:00 (or longer). Step in and support the craftsmen! Groups are welcome by appointment.
The barge builders have also opened a global YouTube channel called "Build Your Own Barge," where you can precisely see how barge construction is done and then try it yourself at home :)
Here are some pictures of the progress in building the new ketch. More pictures of shipbuilding can be found HERE.
A clip from the ETV program about barge construction can be viewed HERE.
The ETV program introducing the Barge hall and shipbuilding can be seen HERE.
Support for ketch construction has been provided by:
EAS (Enterprise Estonia) - Thank you for the support in launching the Barge Centre!
Tartu City - Thank you for the space, the Barge Hall, and the trust!
RMK (State Forest Management Centre) - Thank you for growing mighty ship trees!
AS A. Le Coq - Thank you for the cheerful atmosphere!
Funded within the framework of the Union's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
