A remarkable full-size replica of the historic HMS Endeavour, famously associated with Captain Cook’s explorations, is currently up for sale, sparking enthusiasm and imaginative possibilities for potential buyers. The replica ship is currently stationed at Whitby harbour since 2018, near Captain Cook’s birthplace and the original departure point of the Endeavour in 1768. One of the unique features of this 18th-century ship is its versatility – it can be relocated anywhere in the world and repurposed for a variety of uses, from a luxurious houseboat to a trendy nightclub or even a picturesque wedding venue.
The HMS Endeavour replica boasts a fully equipped kitchen, three decks with a capacity of up to 250 people, and holds a license to serve alcohol, making it an ideal choice for hospitality ventures. The ship’s layout includes a top deck dedicated to seating, a main deck with a bar for visitors, and a lower deck with a hospitality area, commercial kitchen, additional bar, and seating for 100 guests. Listed on Rightmove, the vessel has received offers exceeding £1.5 million, with Nationwide Business Sales noting that sales during peak season can reach £10,000 per day when used for hospitality purposes.
Simon Burbidge, head of sales and marketing at Nationwide Business Sales, highlighted the HMS Endeavour’s historical significance and potential to attract attention and tourism to any area it is relocated to. Reflecting on the ship’s exploration legacy, Simon mentioned that it could serve various functions like a wedding venue, function space, Indian restaurant, or even a traditional fish and chip shop. With its striking presence and historical allure, the ship stands as a unique focal point that captures the imagination of onlookers and visitors.
Once navigated by Captain James Cook on his groundbreaking expeditions to South America, Australia, and New Zealand in the 1760s, the replica Endeavour, while unable to sail independently, can be towed to destinations worldwide. Simon mentioned receiving enquiries about the ship’s potential relocation as far as Oslo, underscoring its global appeal and versatility. Whether as a rotating attraction in different ports or as a grand houseboat in residential moorings across the UK, the HMS Endeavour replica holds immense historical and aesthetic value.
The opportunity to own and potentially transform the HMS Endeavour replica has intrigued house hunters, with social media users expressing fascination and excitement at the ship’s mobility and potential uses. Comments on the uniqueness of owning a movable property like the replica ship have been met with admiration and interest, with users envisioning possibilities ranging from a floating hotel to a cherished historical venue. The HMS Endeavour replica encapsulates a blend of history, maritime adventure, and innovative potential, offering a remarkable chance for a new chapter in its storied journey.