Explore the San Juan Islands on the Historic Island City Schooner

The San Juan Islands are a sailor's paradise, and the Island City Schooner is the perfect vessel to explore them. Built in 1883, this historic schooner has been sailing these waters for over 135 years.

With its sturdy hull and three masts, the Island City Schooner is a sight to behold. You can easily spot it from a distance, its sails billowing in the wind.

If you're looking for a unique experience, take a sailing trip on the Island City Schooner and explore the San Juan Islands. The schooner offers a range of sailing options, from short day trips to multi-day excursions.

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The Island City was built by Peter Perry in 1859 in Sans Souci, Michigan. She was a vessel with a long history of service.

For most of her service, the Island City carried produce and other merchandise to and from Detroit, Michigan and various other ports on Lake Saint Clair. This was a crucial role in the local economy, transporting goods to and from major ports.

The Island City later hauled lumber across other portions of Lake Michigan. This expansion of her operations showcased her versatility and adaptability.

She sank in a storm while en route from Ludington, Michigan to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, lying southeast of Port Washington in 135 to 140 feet of water.

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The Schooner Zodiac is a cozy vessel with a limited number of guests, allowing for a truly intimate experience. The ship has a capacity for 24 guests, plus the crew.

You'll be sleeping in either a single berth or private stateroom, depending on your preference. Berths are 48-inch bunks, adjacent to the ship's salon and feature a heavy curtain.

Guests are encouraged to store their gear with them in their berth due to limited space on board. The ship's staterooms, located both forward and aft, contain multiple bunks, a sink, a mirror, and a door for privacy.

One thing to keep in mind is that the ship's living areas are not wheelchair accessible, and guests must be able to navigate stairs and narrow walkways.

Here's a breakdown of the accommodations:

By understanding what to expect from your accommodations, you'll be better prepared to enjoy your time on the Schooner Zodiac.

The Island City schooner offers a unique sailing experience, with its tall masts and billowing sails creating a classic nautical atmosphere. Its sailing style is reminiscent of traditional sailing vessels from the 19th century.

You can expect to spend around 10 hours on the water, depending on the wind and sea conditions. This allows for a leisurely pace and plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of the ocean.

The Island City's sailing route typically takes it through calm waters, making it an ideal choice for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery without the risk of rough seas.

The thrill of sailing is unmatched, and some voyages stand out in history for their sheer adventure and bravery. The 1969 Golden Globe Race was a notable voyage that tested sailors' endurance and skills.

The first sailor to circumnavigate the globe solo, Joshua Slocum, completed his journey in 1898, sailing over 46,000 miles in 3 years and 2 months. He sailed alone on his ship, the Spray.

The 1970s saw a surge in sailing innovations, with the introduction of fiberglass hulls and self-steering systems, making voyages easier and more accessible to sailors. The first American to sail solo non-stop around the world, Robin Knox-Johnston, completed his journey in 1969.

The 1990s witnessed a rise in sailing expeditions, including the first woman to sail solo non-stop around the world, Tracy Edwards, who completed her journey in 1990.

Sailing in the afternoon can be a real treat, especially during the summer months when the sun's rays are still warm but the heat of the day has dissipated. This time of day often brings a gentle breeze, making it ideal for sailing.

The sun sets around 8:30 pm in the summer, providing a stunning backdrop for a sunset sail. Imagine gliding across the water as the sky turns pink and orange.

Afternoon and sunset sails are perfect for spotting marine life, as many species are active during this time. In fact, dolphins and whales have been spotted during these types of sails.

The calm waters and gentle wind make it a great time for beginners to learn the ropes and get a feel for sailing. Many sailing schools and charter companies offer afternoon and sunset sail sessions specifically for beginners.

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If you're looking for a unique sailing experience, consider attending a special sailing event. There's nothing quite like the thrill of sailing in a regatta.

The America's Cup World Series is one of the most prestigious sailing events in the world, with top sailors competing in high-performance boats. It's a great opportunity to see the best sailors in action.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is another iconic sailing event that takes place in Australia. It's a challenging 628-nautical-mile journey that requires skill, strategy, and endurance.

Sailors can also participate in the Volvo Ocean Race, which is a grueling around-the-world sailing competition that pushes sailors to their limits. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's an incredible experience for those who are up for the challenge.

The Fastnet Race is another notable sailing event that takes place in the UK. It's a 605-nautical-mile journey that requires sailors to navigate through treacherous waters and unpredictable weather conditions.