Built 1952 by Stocznia Północna, Gdańsk as yard number S-195 Cietrzew, a lugger trawler for P.P.D.i.U.R. ‘Dalmor’ 159 gt, 58 nrt [PRS # : 440064] type : B11/14
1953 transferred to P.P.D.i.U.R. ‘Odra’ ŚWI-112
1958 transferred to Polska Ratownictwo Okrętowe for conversion to a salvage vessel together with S-193 Czapla. Czapla was converted but Cietrzew was not.

In 1961 she was rebuilt by Gdyńska Stocznia Remontowa as a schooner (625 m2 sail)for use with Scout Sea Centre of the Polish Scout Association

In 1965 she was lengthened by 4m. to 36.1m (42.7) x 6.7 x 3.35 (164 grt) and received a new engine (Wola diesel, 330 kW)
In 1980 she was again refurbished, with new electronics, etc.

Zawisza Czarny is named after Zawisza the Black - the black knight of Garbów. For many Poles, Zawisza became one of the most popular folk heroes thanks to his exceptional bravery and proverbial reliability and loyalty. there is a famous Polish saying: "Polegaj jak na Zawiszy" (Rely on him like on Zawisza). This motto also became part of the Polish Scouts oath.

photo : Terneuzen : 09:09;2007 after visit to Antwerp