Estralita RX8

Estralita RX8 is a large East Channel Punt.

She was built in 1948 by Harry Phillips of Rock Channel in Rye. Although originally built without an engine, she was fitted out in the 1950s, with twin shafts leaving the stern post and rudder intact.

Estralita was eventually abandoned on the shores of Dungeness from where the Excelsior Trust salvaged her. She is currently awaiting restoration.

East Channel Punts

Punts were built to work off the exposed Shingle Beaches of Kent and Sussex. They were lug rigged and drifted for sprats, herring and mackeral or trawled for soles and plaice, according to the season.