A Victorian launch converted into a floating restaurant is being retired for the winter after a busy first season on the Helford River.

Gweek Classic Boatyard is preparing to crane its electric launch Constance out of the water again, after six months of running Constance Cruises.

Guests have enjoyed cruises down the Helford, with stops made at Tremayne Quay and Frenchman’s Creek for swimming or fishing.

Afternoon tea, lunch, dinner, drinks and canapés have also been on offer, provided by the team at Wood Fired Kitchen headed up by chef Mark Devonshire, who has previously worked with Rick Stein.

Constance’s skipper David Furness said: “The season aboard Constance has been an absolute adventure; from the start of the journey, being introduced to the unfinished restoration project in a tent, through to our last cruise of the season.

“We have had a huge variety of guests aboard, from near and far, some seasoned locals disembarking for a brief dip, visiting yachtsmen coming alongside for a cheeky glass of bubbles and many a yarn on the river about the history of our beautiful Victorian launch.”

The team are already taking bookings for next year and planning Constance’s next season, including some special events and trips.

Mark Aichroth, part-owner of Gweek Classic Boatyard, said: “We are delighted with the first year of Constance at Gweek Classic Boatyard.

“We have had a busy season with customers form Australia, the USA and Barbados. We have also supported a number of charity events and regattas.

“Constance has shown Gweek Classic Boatyard is developing further within the classic boat business. I am delighted how well the crew under David Furness have come together and it is really pleasing to hear the comments of the guests and other river users.”

The historic boat, which was built in 1895 and originally owned by the Shuttleworth collection, is able to take up to ten guests at a time.