A historic Lowestoft ship has completed an extensive voyage in which she visited 14 countries over 17 weeks.

Excelsior, a sailing smack, sailed out in May, kicking off a diverse summer sailing programme.

Her adventures included hosting a residency for Utter Nonsense in the North Atlantic Islands, involving both established artists and young innovators, and taking groups of youngsters to participate in the International Tall Ships Races in the Baltic.

The ship proudly flew a Lowestoft pennant in each port, acting as a nautical ambassador for the town's rich maritime heritage.

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Such countries as Poland, Estonia and the Faroe Islands, among others, saw the penant raised in their ports.

She was welcomed by Lowestoft mayor Nasima Begum.

She said: “After a fantastic summer on the seas around the UK and beyond I am delighted to welcome the Excelsior and crew back home to Lowestoft.

"So, from everyone here at Lowestoft Town Council and myself, well done to all of you and welcome home."