Small Ships

Spirit of South Carolina

History

Built between 2000 and 2006, the Spirit of South Carolina is a tribute to the maritime tradtions of the state. She was modeled after another Charleston-built Ship, an 1879 pilot schooner Frances Elizabeth. Mark Bayne oversaw the construction, which was made possible thanks to the help of multiple local volunteers. Combined with the use of predominantly local materials and the fact that she sails mostly with local students, this makes the vessel live up to her name.

Ship

The Spirit of South Carolina, a two-masted topsail schooner, was born in 2006. Many local volunteers have helped with the construction. The Ship’s objective is to honor maritime traditions of Charleston, South Carolina, as well as provide valuable programs for youth. Students from all over the state take part in her comprehensive Sail Training program which provides experiential learning opportunities. The Ship has all the safety features enabling her to sail across the world’s oceans with 30 people on board. She carries 6 sails of combined area 600m2, making her a very fast, as well as graceful, vessel.

Step on board the Spirit of South Carolina for a unique sailing adventure. Immerse yourself in the state’s history and admire the traditional design while enjoying the modern comforts of a 21st century Ship.

 

Accommodation

There are 9 crew members on board and up to 21 trainees can be accommodated, sleeping in bunks, for overnight trips.

Specifications

Shipping type: Gaff Schooner
Homeport: Charleston, South Carolina
Date built: 2006
Restored: -
Capacity: 30
Length: 28.85 m (140 ft)
Beam: 7.33 m (23 ft 8 in)
Draught: 3.15 m (10 ft 4 in)
Sail: 600 m2 (6500 sq. ft)
Height of mast: 39.00 m
Engine capacity: Twin Cummins 230 hp diesel