Racing on the Bay Aboard the Schooner 'Spirit of Independence'

Schooner 'Spirit of Independence' (center with green hull) jockeying for position at the beginning of the 2008 Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race.

 Introductory

 Have you ever desired to sail aboard a tall ship or crew aboard a vessel during a major sailing race? Imagine a fleet of schooners racing head to head in the Chesapeake Bay and you're part of the crew- pulling the sheets, port and starboard tacks with brisk winds and the spray of salt water stinging your face. Captivating. Exhilarating. Memories not soon forgotten.

Racing the 'Spirit of Independence' in the 2009 Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race. Photo by Allen Graves.

 I believe most of us would love to participate in such an exciting and momentous event! And who knows, there's plenty of chances to actually partake in it. Many of the schooners offer a berth and an opportunity to participate. But for those of us who cannot participate in this years race, let's sit back and enjoy the adventure through the writing and photography of Allen Graves with Captain J.C. Waters and the rest of the crew aboard the Schooner Spirit of Independence.

Experience the excitement and adventure from the deck of the 'Spirit' during the 2010 Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race- Racing to Save the Bay. Venture along as she sets sail from her home port of Portsmouth, Virginia to Fells Point, Maryland. Participate in the GCBSR events and activities through daily reports and photos on this blog site as they prepare to race and the adventure begins!

Schooner 'Spirit of Independence' with home port Portsmouth, Virginia in background.

You can also visit the World's largest gathering of schooners during Schooner Days as the finale event of the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race, October 15 & 16, right here in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.  Check out all of the activities by clicking on the link to the Schooner Days logo located on the blog sidebar. Hope to see you here!

Joe Elder
Skipjack