The Czar was originally built in 1879, the Men-a-Vaur, built in 1983, and the Emperor, built in 2002. These six oared boats, made of Cornish Elm, were originally built for pilotage and rescue purposes. The Czar is one of the few remaining Victorian gigs, having once attended wrecks including the Maipu (1879), Minnehaha (1910), and SS Isabo (1927).
Gig clubs do not just provide an exciting sport to participate in and support, they also act as a means of conserving these historical boats: In April 2008 the Czar underwent major restoration works which ensured not only that she can continue to be raced, but that she will last for generations into the future. See below for further details of the fundraising efforts of the Club.