Children’s Sailing Trust Completes Carwinion Boathouse Renovation

Children’s Sailing Trust has completed a major renovation of Carwinion Boathouse at Porth Sawson beach on the Helford River, securing an important base for its charitable sailing programmes.

The landowners allow the Trust to use Porth Sawsen beach, while the boathouse itself is leased from the National Trust. Children’s Sailing Trust is responsible for maintaining the building.

In 2025, it became clear that significant work was needed to keep the boathouse safe and operational, with costs running into many thousands of pounds.

Funding boost made project possible

Funding for the renovation was provided by the Tanner Phoenix Trust, facilitated by Cornwall Community Foundation, which committed £9,500 towards the work. The funding enabled the project to go ahead.

Logistical challenges on an exposed beach

Delivering the renovation brought a series of practical challenges. Carwinion Boathouse has no vehicle access and no on site facilities, and sits directly on a public footpath on an exposed beach.

All materials had to be transported by sea. Work was carefully planned around tides, weather conditions, beach use and the Trust’s operational schedule during the sailing season.

Local company Shield Marine Services carried out the renovation, with Marine Operations Director Martin Emmett leading the works. Shield Marine Services worked closely with the Trust and implemented cost controls to ensure the project was delivered on budget while managing the complex logistics.

Jakie Jewell, CEO of Children’s Sailing Trust, said:

“Renovating Carwinion Boathouse was always going to be a huge challenge. Finding a contractor willing and able to take on a project with no access, no facilities and such a demanding location felt almost impossible. Shield Marine Services delivered this project with total professionalism, craftsmanship and resilience, even in the most testing conditions. The finished boathouse is utterly transformed.”

Supporting children and young people

The renovated boathouse will continue to support the Trust’s work providing sailing opportunities for children and young people, including many who face physical, educational or social challenges.

Children’s Sailing Trust has thanked the Tanner Phoenix Trust, Cornwall Community Foundation and Shield Marine Services for their support in completing the project.