RIVER watchers in Thurrock were out and about earlier today to watch a sailing ship make its paggae towards London.

The Götheborg of Sweden is a replica of an 18th century Swedish trading ship and it was returning to London for the first time in 15 years, gliding past Thurrock towns between six and seven this morning.

The vessel, standing at 150ft tall and stretching 36ft wide, was built in 2005, replicating the original Götheborg that sank in 1745 following a voyage to China where it traded for silk, tea and exotic goods.

The original Götheborg carried 30 cannon and a crew of more than 140. 

Shipbuilders, who tried wherever possible to use the same wood and tools used 275 years ago built the new ship using the same techniques and materials as their 18th century counterparts.

Ten tonnes of oak logs were ploughed into making the ship's hull, which was laid in 1995 after several years of preparation. A tar and cattle hair blanket was later produced to protect the wooden base from shipworm.

Today the ship is equipped with up to date technology, per modern seafaring health and safety regulations. It boasts two diesel powered engines capable of hitting 11 knots, fire extinguishers and GPS and satellite radar.

It will remain moored in Canary Wharf for the next four days where it will be open to visitors who can explore inside. 

The ship's onboard exhibitions promise to transport visitors back in time to the 18th century, revealing the eye-opening history of the Götheborg and its crew all while also experiencing the 'tremendous art of shipbuilding in a contemporary 18th century environment.