We’re delighted to have brought this magnificent motor yacht over from Europe to sail around Windermere for many years to come. Much like Langdale Chase itself, Albatros has many tales to tell; built as a private vessel in 1928 Germany, before being confiscated for the German war effort, then becoming a passenger ferry in Bodensee. It was fitting for us to find this magnificent piece of craftsmanship, in keeping with the sensitive restoration of Langdale Chase, when searching for a vessel for our guests to enjoy sailing around Windermere.
We welcome you aboard to experience a piece of history in the charming Lake District. Speak to a member of our team to find out when Albatros will next be sailing, or to enquire about a private charter.
Originally built in 1928 in Berlin for a sea captain as his own private motor yacht, which he used mainly on the River Elbe and surrounding waterways. She was to be confiscated during WWII, along with most other useful vessels, and used for transporting cargo along the Elbe to Hamburg. A decade after the war she was transported to Bodensee which borders Switzerland, Germany and Austria where she became a ferry connecting various cities around the lake.
In 1983 Albatros was purchased by a Dutch shipyard in Friesland. Here the boatbuilders appreciated the origins of the boat and set about rebuilding her to the original specification, emulating the layout both externally and internally. Three years later Albatros headed south to the French waterways where she was kept for holidays, mainly on the Seine, right through to late nineteen nineties. She then returned to the Netherlands where a classic boat restoration yard saw the potential as a sight seeing vessel in Amsterdam.
A further restoration, around 2005, concentrated on bringing Albatros back to her 1928 splendour. Albatros was reborn.
The story of Albatros has much in common with how we have restored Langdale Chase to her former glory. It felt fitting that she would join us in Windermere in 2024, nearly 100 years after she was built. Watch the final part of her journey below.
Langdale Chase has a rich history dating back to the 1890s. Originally built as a private residence, it has since served as a hotel, offering guests a luxurious experience in the heart of the Lake District.
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea inspired by the stunning Lake District landscape. Discover the artistry behind our handcrafted tableware, created by local artisans Fiona May, Croglin Craftsmen, Miles Moore, and Lauren Frost.
Langdale Chase has officially reopened after a year of restoration. To celebrate, a reception was held with Rick Bailey, Executive Chairman of Daniel Thwaites, and Samantha Scott, High Sheriff of Cumbria.
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea inspired by the stunning Lake District landscape. Discover the artistry behind our handcrafted ceramic pieces, created by local ceramicist Fiona May from Shap.
