Community news
Royal Docks welcomes iconic Ukrainian Cossack boat
The Royal Docks recently hosted a significant cultural and historical event with the arrival of an iconic Ukrainian Cossack boat, the Presvyata Pokrova. Following extensive restoration, the vessel arrived in the Royal Docks, where it was greeted by large crowds, celebrating Ukraine’s rich maritime history and cultural heritage.
The legendary vessel was originally constructed over twenty years ago in Lviv, Ukraine, by a dedicated group of enthusiasts. They meticulously recreated the design of an authentic 16th-century Cossack warship, called a chaika, which had been discovered at the bottom of the Dnipro River.
Since then, the Presvyata Pokrova has sailed nearly 30,000 nautical miles across Europe before requiring repair after its extensive voyages. Over the past 18 months, a team of volunteers in Brittany, France, worked tirelessly to restore the vessel. Its triumphant return to the water earlier this year was celebrated at the Brest Historic Ship Festival, where it garnered international acclaim. Now fully restored, the chaika continues its journey of connecting the past with the present and raising awareness of Ukraine's maritime history with its arrival in the heart of the Royal Docks.
The vessel was greeted by hundreds in Royal Victoria Dock and the welcoming ceremony included speeches from the Mayor of Newham, Rokhsana Fiaz, London Assembly Member, Unmesh Desai, and representatives from both the Ukrainian Embassy and the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain. The event drew a large audience from the Ukrainian community, alongside many local residents.
The Presvyata Pokrova’s visit to London comes at a time when Ukrainian heritage and resilience are in the global spotlight. The boat not only serves as a historical reminder but also as a cultural touchstone for the Ukrainian diaspora in the UK. Its anticipated role as a venue for Ukrainian heritage events and community gatherings will ensure its arrival is all the more meaningful.
The Presvyata Pokrova is moored in Royal Victoria Dock, next to the Good Hotel, where it will remain for the next 6-months.
For more information about upcoming events related to the Presvyata Pokrova, contact: Alex Muliak, Project Lead on 07715 634681 or email mulyak.oleksandr@gmail.com
