The Hovercraft Museum Trust

The Hovercraft Museum Trust is a registered charity (No. 1003689) dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and technology of hovercraft. It operates the world’s only hovercraft museum located on a transport heritage site in Lee-on-the-Solent, Hampshire, England. The Trust’s mission is to inspire, educate, and provide enjoyment to the public and broader society through its collection of iconic hovercraft exhibits.

History and Development

The Trust was established in 1988 to ensure the preservation of hovercraft technology and history. Over the years, it has grown to become the world’s only museum solely dedicated to hovercraft. In 2016, a lease variation allowed the museum to open regularly to the public every Saturday, improving access and visitor engagement.

In 2020, the land on which the museum premises sit was put out to tender for redevelopment. The Trust worked with the landlord and potential developers to secure the museum’s place as a permanent resident within the “Daedalus Waterfront” revitalisation project. This collaboration has ensured the museum’s continued presence and growth potential at the site.

The museum achieved full accreditation in 2023, marking a significant milestone that enhanced its ability to gain support and recognition. As part of this process, the Trust incorporated as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in January 2024, merging its charitable entities under the new registration number 1198896. Since April 2024, the museum has expanded its opening hours to include Sundays in addition to Saturdays.

Collections and Exhibits

The Hovercraft Museum Trust is renowned for its collection of hovercraft, particularly the SRN4 “Mountbatten” and other historic models like the HSC The Princess Anne. These large hovercraft relics are central to the museum’s appeal, attracting visitors interested in British maritime and technological heritage.

The Trust actively campaigns to preserve key hovercraft, including efforts to save historically significant vessels from being scrapped. It maintains a strong commitment to conservation and public education, emphasizing the unique place hovercraft hold in transport history.

Operations and Community

The Trust is governed by a board of four trustees and supported by 35 volunteers, with no trustees receiving remuneration. The museum’s operations rely on charitable donations and public support to cover its expenditures, which were approximately £75,316 for the financial year ending 31 December 2023, against an income of £74,172.

As a charity, the Hovercraft Museum Trust does not have trading subsidiaries and remains focused on its core mission of preservation, education, and community engagement.

Significance

The Hovercraft Museum Trust holds a unique position as the guardian of hovercraft heritage worldwide. Its activities ensure the survival of important technological artifacts and provide a hub for enthusiasts, historians, and the general public to learn about this innovative form of transportation.

This article is based on information from the Charity Commission for England and Wales and the official history of the Hovercraft Museum Trust[1][3][4].

[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1003689/charity-overview [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/1003689/contact-information [3] https://hovercraft-museum.org/our-history/ [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hovercraft_Museum [5] https://www.doverferryphotosforums.co.uk/hsc-the-princess-anne/