On 21st April 2019 Anne & Jonathan Winter set out on a 2,500 mile six-month voyage around Great Britain and Ireland aboard yacht Nova. The purpose was not to break records, but to explore the coast and harbours of these islands, including 12 key ports. As we cruised the coast, we asked ourselves: What does this place tell us about the story of these islands? And what does it tell us about our future? Our desire was to discover hopeful visions for the future.
As well as pictures and stories from aboard Nova, we collaborated with a think tank called These Islands, who progressively published articles by leading writers and thinkers – one for each of twelve key ports, and with Chrome Media to produce a series of podcasts. As they are published, you’ll find them here.
THE BOAT
Commissioned and named in 2018 for the purpose of this voyage, Nova is the first of the GT yachts, designed by Stephen Jones. Built like a mini-Oyster (by Windboats), this is the closest thing to a successor for Steven Jones’ popular Starlight 35. Classified as a Category ’A’ (Ocean) offshore yacht, for her owners ‘Nova’ is a fast, modern, British-built alternative to yachts like the Hallberg Rassy 37, or the more traditional Stephen Jones designed Rustler 37.
