YORKTOWN — Norfolk’s wooden tall ship, the schooner Virginia, will visit Yorktown on July 21-23, hosting sails along the York River throughout the weekend.
The Virginia, a 122-foot gaff-rigged knockabout tall ship, is a modern replica of the last pure tall sail vessel built for the Virginia Pilot Association. The original ship sailed for the pilots from 1917-1926, training apprentice pilots in seamanship and navigation.
The modern Virginia was commissioned by the Virginia Maritime Heritage Foundation in 2005. She was sold to the Nauticus Foundation in 2016 and is docked along the Elizabeth River at Nauticus, where she is used in their programs as a platform for STEM and maritime education.
The vessel participates in major events, including Norfolk Harborfest and the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race, as well as in community service projects and with local maritime-focused nonprofit organizations.
From July 21-23, Yorktown visitors can join in for an afternoon sail when the winds are at their best, or embark on a relaxing evening sail to catch the sunset. Tickets for two-hour York River sails aboard Virginia may be purchased online.
The ship can accommodate up to 55 guests per sail. Private charters by clubs, corporations and other organizations are also available. The sail will depart from River Walk Landing, 425 Water Street, Yorktown.
Visit the Nauticus website for more information on the schooner Virginia.