Kitty was sailed and operated in the Solent from the late Seventies and was not fitted with an engine until the early Eighties.

She remains fully capable of sailing with her unique and authentic spars and sails. An extensive and continuing restoration programme has been undertaken since 1990 in order to restore and upgrade her to her current glory. Restoration work has included re-planking her sides and deck plus designing a luxurious bar area and main saloon. Kitty is one of the oldest barges currently sailing and is on the official list of historic ships.