New Petra

What is New Petra?

New Petra is a 31m Dutch barge built in 1965. She was purchased by the charity in 2000 and has been converted for residential use to a very high quality including accommodation with en-suite facilities. The barge conforms to European Commission safety standards and has been inspected by the relevant Belgium and Netherlands Government Departments. Kent Venture Boat is supported by Kent County Council's Youth Service.

What does New Petra have to offer?

Kent Venture Boat "New Petra" offers a safe, exciting and controlled venue for smaller residential groups (groups up to 12 including leaders). Based in Oostende, Belgium it gives groups a European experience at a leisurely pace, it can be used by a wide range of groups with an even wider range of goals and expectations.

Young people can participate in all aspects of their European residential experience from planning the route and stops along the way, to food preparation and cooking, cleaning and daily tasks around the ship, while being challenged and feeling a sense of personal and group achievement. They will learn the importance of managing resources as the ship carries its own water supply and generates its own electricity, plus they will be shopping for supplies in another language. Learning to live and work together in the confines of a boat not only develops the self confidence and social skills so important in today's society, but encourages a spirit of teamwork.

New Petra offers a unique facility for small group work, photographic and arts based projects, issue-based work, Youth Participation, language, culture and geography. Many groups use the barge as a base to study the History of Northern France and Belgium, accessing the historic battlefields of 2 World Wars as well as numerous war cemeteries and memorials. The Menin Gate at Ypres can be a salutary experience for students studying European History, hearing the last post will hit home with everyone.

Although New Petra is not adapted for those with physical disabilities, it can be used by young people in the 12 to 20 age group. We also welcome user groups from organisations such as the Scouts, Guides, Interact, Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

There are 3 and 5 day cruises available and using our minibus and D1 qualified drivers, we offer "door to door" return travel from your base in Kent to Oostende. Using our minibus offers the advantage of transport to local attractions - e.g. Ypres, the beach etc - at no extra cost. Prices include full board, with all meals freshly prepared on board. All cruises are led by New Petra staff, although young people have the opportunity to drive the barge and assist with aspects of its operation.

For information on making a booking visit the New Petra website.