An historic fishing smack is to set sail for Norway next month – with an opportunity to join the crew of the Lowestoft-based trawler Excelsior for 'the experience of a lifetime'.

The vessel will be representing East Anglia at an historic sailing smack rally in Norway, which only takes place every four years.

Leaving Lowestoft on June 12, Excelsior will join other similar vessels meeting up at the waterside town of Arendal, in southern Norway.

Here the vessels will be welcomed by the mayor and civic dignitaries, with all ships taking part in the rally open to the public during their stay. There will also be sails to the historic outer harbour of Hesnesøy, with a parade past the city waterfront and a race at sea.

And there are still spaces available on board Excelsior, to be part of a trip of a lifetime.

There are two trips available – with the outward journey running from June 12 to June 21 and the return trip leaving Arendal on June 21 and arriving back in Lowestoft on June 29.

'This is a fantastic opportunity to sail on one of the nation's most important, historic ships with a friendly crew to show you the ropes,' said Excelsior's Mary George.

'We welcome anyone aged 14 upwards to join us. You don't need to have sailed before – just be prepared to become part of the crew.

'All you need are sleeping bags and a spirit of adventure to have the experience of a lifetime.'

Excelsior can also offer this trip as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

For more details contact Mary George on 0845 308 2323 or email sailing@excelsiortrust.co.uk

Have you got a Lowestoft story? Email mark.boggis@archant.co.uk