History of the Muster
The first Muster attracted only nine boats, mainly from Elie. A reception was provided on Saturday evening and a pub provided Sunday breakfast. A good time was had by all and 'The Anstruther Muster' was born!
Since that first year, development of the Muster has been steady. Races have been encouraged to finish at Anstruther on the Saturday, and races have started homeward on Sunday. Forth Yacht Clubs Association has actively encouraged clubs to put the event in the diary and also provided early physical support with posters and publicity.
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The Anstruther Muster was started in 1997, as a result of the Community Council striving to regenerate our harbour. It was recognised that leisure activity had to feature in any plans to bring life back to the waterfront, especially with a continuing pressure on the Scottish fishing industry. The Council decided to create an event which showed the community what 'yachties' could bring to 'Anster' and, at the same time, could show the sailing fraternity that Anstruther could be a very attractive base and destination for their cruising activities.
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Sponsorship and a growing recognition of a successful format allowed the event to go from strength to strength. A marquee on the pier was needed as the reception outgrew the Erskine Hall. Entertainment and parties developed as the focus moved to the harbour. By 2010 the Anstruther Muster was host to 100 visiting boats. Since then the addition of pontoons to the west harbour wall and the increase of the number of creelboats has greatly limited the number of visiting boats that can be accommodated, although the recent renewal of ladders to the outer harbour has gone some way to increasing the number of viable berths for visitors.
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From 2012 the Muster has included a Classic Boat Rally event, with the award of a ’Classic Boat of the Year’ trophy.In 2013 Anstruther Sailing Club was instrumental in setting up the Anstruther Harbour Festival (AHF) organisation with the aim of making the Muster part of a wider community event. AHF took over the running of the Muster in 2013, and has since become the Anstruther Harbour Festival Trust registered charity
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