Gaffers and Luggers Association

GALA have an official web site at the gala website

The aim of G.A.L.A. is :-

To generate communication and fellowship amongst those who own a vessel constructed by Gaffers and Luggers of Mylor Bridge, Cornwall.

Its objectives are to :-

• Provide opportunities for members to meet on land and water
• Promote the exchange of information and ideas between members and between G.A.L.A. and Gaffers and Luggers on matters arising from ownership and use of their vessels
• And to publish a regular newsletter to all members

The majority of the boats manufactured by Gaffers and Luggers are -

• the Falmouth Working Boats (or Oyster Dredgers) of 23 ft (7.1m) and 28 ft (8.6m) lod
• the Mevagissey Toshers of 18 ft (5.7m) and 20 ft (6.2m) lod
• the Clovelly Picarooners of 16 ft (4.9m) lod

Other craft from the yard are

• the Falmouth Quay Punt at 35 ft (10.8m) lod
• the St. Malo Pilot Cutter at 46 ft ( 14.1m) lod

and also

• the Oyster Punt (14 ft (4.3m) lod)
• and a variety of smaller craft

History bit

(Taken from the introductory information leaflet)

In October 1996 several owners gathered at the Pandora Inn, Restronguet where they unanimously resolved to form G.A.L.A. with the expectation that, by so doing, their common interests in sailing and boating would be enhanced, particularly for those who lived away from the western end of Cornwall. A brief, simple constitution was drawn up; sufficient in itself to ensure proper accountability for the handling of members money and the fulfilment of the association's objectives. Everyone was keen to keep administration and 'red tape' to the minimum necessary whilst at the same time desiring a basic structure within which to operate. So far the constitution has shown itself to be adequate without being in the least bit restricting.

If you are the owner of one of the 350 or so boats constructed first by Terry and now by Martin Heard, or if you have a particular interest in these boats, then G.A.L.A. is for you. We do not organise rallies - but where there are two or more members in close proximity who can say what will happen!

GALA now has free pages on the Cornish Newspapers Beehive Site, which is a local site for Cornish clubs and organisations

One of our overseas members, Maarten Adriaans, has some lovely picture of his boat, Janner, on his own website, as well as some useful links to sites of interest.

(If you are interested in rallies and races involving traditionally rigged boats then you might also want to investigate the The Old Gaffers Association)

back to The Rihan Classic Boats Page