National Historic Ships UK, a government-funded but independent organisation, has announced the winners of its annual photography competition celebrating maritime heritage across the UK. The organisation provides objective advice to UK governments and local authorities, funding bodies, and the historic ships sector on all matters relating to historic vessels.
Kev, from Tipton in the West Midlands, won the People’s Choice Award in the photography category — the only award voted for by the public. His atmospheric black-and-white image, Getting Ready for the Off, secured more than 40% of the almost 500 votes cast.
Waterways photographer Kev Maslin’s award-winning image. PHOTO: KEV MASLIN/NHS-UK
The photograph was taken during a Historic Narrow Boat Club cruise to Ellesmere Port. Kev spotted Reuben Carter ‘swabbing the decks’ of his 1937 narrowboat Stamford at the start point in Chester.
“He appeared to be shrouded in smoke, which I thought looked exceptionally evocative,” said Kev. “So I wasted no time getting the shot in the bag.”
Reflecting on the win, he added: “I’ve done reasonably well in the competition over the years, but this is the icing on the cake. There are some amazing maritime photographers around, and I’m really pleased and extremely proud to be able to represent the inland sector.
“The opportunity to promote historic boating means a lot and brings positivity to a crucially difficult time for the future of the waterways.
“I really do relish the challenge that photo contests like this encourage and I’m already collecting images for next year.”
Kev was among several other winners in the competition. James Crisp, from Heybridge in Essex, was named Photographer of the Year, while Kent-based Raybel Charters received the Excellence in Maritime Conservation Award for conserving a Thames barge and returning it to operational use.
The winners were announced in a video premiered on YouTube. Accepting his award — which included £250 and a specially commissioned trophy courtesy of The Maritime Heritage Trust — and thanking everyone who voted for him, Kev told the online audience: “It’s not often I’m lost for words. I was absolutely astounded to receive the news that I’d won.
“Old friend Reuben was cleaning off the decks of his narrowboat. I could see smoke rising behind him and a touch of backlight, so I took a few shots. When I got home, I decided that one in particular would look better in monochrome, and Getting Ready for the Off was born.”
Kev’s 2026 waterways calendar, featuring images taken across the UK, is now available to order. It can be purchased online at www.canalshop.co.uk and chasingtheboats.sumupstore.com, and is also stocked by selected canalside outlets, including the Boat Shop at Braunston Bottom Lock.
