For the first time ever, Greenwich’s famous 18th century ship Cutty Sark will be allowing visitors to climb the rigging to see views of London from above.

The Rig Climb Experience was launched on April 2 and it gives people the unique experience of climbing the Tea Clippers masts just as the sailors would have done when it was a working vessel.

The experience begins with a briefing beneath the hull of the ship before climbers begin their ascent.

News Shopper: photo: Nathan Turnerphoto: Nathan Turner

Climbers will begin from the main deck onto the ship’s ratlines and then up its shrouds.

The experience will then take them across one of the ships lower yardarms before coming to a stop at the tops platform to admire the views at 68ft high.

Up high climbers will get a wide view over London and get the chance to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as the Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge.

Bolder climbers who pay for the Plus Rig Climb will then be able to climb a further 20ft to the lower topsail.

Finally, all participants will be taken down at a controlled descent from the rigging landing beside the ship at street level.

“We’re so pleased to be able to offer such an exciting and authentic experience at Cutty Sark,” said General Manager of Cutty Sark Emma Massoud.

News Shopper: photo: Nathan Turnerphoto: Nathan Turner

“Now our visitors can get an insight into what it would have been like to be a sailor in the 1800’s.”

There are two climbing experiences to choose from depending on how high you want to climb.

Prices for the Standard Rig Climb begin at £41 for adults and £26 for children. For people wishing to climb higher the Plus Rig Climb prices begin from £51 for adults and £36 for children.

Ticket prices include admission to the Cutty Sark on the day of your Rig Climbing experience as well as use of climbing equipment and storage of your belongings.

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