Light Vessel 16
| History | |
|---|---|
| Owner |
|
| Builder | William Pitcher (Northfleet, Kent) |
| Completed | 1840 |
| Fate | Currently (2024) in use as an Airbnb |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | Light vessel (as originally built) |
| Tonnage | 158 gross |
| Length | 26.67 m (87.5 ft) loa |
| Beam | 6.4 m (21 ft) |
| Depth of hold | 3.35 m (11.0 ft) |
| Propulsion | None |
Light Vessel 16 is a former Trinity House lightship originally stationed off Yorkshire, England. Built in 1840, she is the oldest surviving wooden lightship.
Light Vessel 16 served as a navigational aid off the British coast until 1945, when she was sold to Benfleet Yacht Club. The club converted her into a bar and clubhouse and moored her on Benfleet Creek. Light Vessel 16 was sold in 1983 and moved to the River Medway at Borstal, Kent. She was used as a private members' club and then a nightclub before becoming a bar and restaurant. She was renovated in 2007 and rented out as accommodation. Sold again in 2023, she is now used as an Airbnb.