A maritime good will ambassador was born in Baltimore Harbor in 1977. The Baltimore Clipper ship named the Pride of Baltimore was an authentic replica of original Baltimore Clipper ships that was used during the War of 1812. Well revered by sailors, this fast clipper was a popular design that was replicated by pirates, privateers, and slave runners that wanted swift sea transportation.
In less than ten years, the Pride of Baltimore clocked more than 150,00 nautical miles on its quest as an ambassador. Tragedy hit on May 14, 1986 when the Pride of Baltimore was returning from St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. and was lost at sea with four crew members due to hurricane force winds.
Her successor, the Pride of Baltimore II set sail two years later to continue the journey of ambassadorship. Her recent stop was in Annapolis for a weekend city celebration.
The Pride II is not a replica of an exact previous vessel, but rather was built according to specifications of an original clipper with modern conveniences considered.
The Pride II is 108 feet long, with a 28 foot beam. Weighing 197 tons, this size and weight allow great sailing distances and has traveled from the United States to Europe. While in France in 2005, the entire mast was taken down by a squall in Bay of Biscay. Limping home on motor power, the Pride II was repaired and returned to service.
While taking in the incredible detail of this magnificent ship, with the perfectly varnished wood, the well placed boat ropes, winches, and so much more. I began to hear the lovely sounds of a well played guitar. Sitting on the dock next to the Pride was Andrew, a crew mate of the ship playing his custom made guitar.
The ship and its crew are truly unique. This is what adventure is all about, discovering new things, appreciating the past, meeting special people and dreaming of exploration.
Categories: 2013 Project 365, Annapolis, Baltimore, Foot Prints, history, travel, War of 1812
Beautiful Vessel – Great Captures! Adventure Awaits!!!
It truly was an adventurous long weekend. A visit to the Pride II set the stage. š
Your photos tell a wonderful story, love your post.
I’d imagine that you get to see tall ships sometimes in Seattle. Thanks for your kind comment Charlie.
Reblogged this on O LADO ESCURO DA LUA.
Thank you for sharing this with your readers.
ESTOU FAZENDO A MINHA PARTE. sEJA FELIZ!
This is exactly what adventure is all about… the ship exudes it & makes me feel excited about the world ‘out there’! That custom guitar is pretty awesome too! Great post )
You got the feeling I was trying to share when I excitedly discovered this ship at the docks. Life is short – let’s get out there and be adventurous.
Absolutely! š
What a beautiful ship Bella and of course great photos as usual! How long will she be in Baltimore?
She heads to Baltimore this weekend then starts sailing north for the summer. Thanks Mark!
You just reminded me of one of my favourite poems about the sea. I hope you don’t mind that I am including it in my comments. It just seemed so perfect! It is called “A Wet Sheet And A Flowing Sea.” By Allan Cunningham. (1784-1842)
A wet sheet and a flowing sea,
A wind that follows fast,
And fills the white and rustling sail,
And bends the gallant mast;
And bends the gallant mast, my boys,
While, like the eagle free,
Away the good ship flies, and leaves
Old England on the lee.
O for a soft and gentle wind!
I heard a fair one cry;
But give to me the snoring breeze,
And white waves heaving high;
And white waves having high, my boys,
The good ship tight and free –
The world of waters is our home,
And merry men are we.
There ‘s tempest in yon horned moon,
And lightning in yon cloud;
And hark the music, mariners!
The wind is piping loud;
The wind is piping loud, my boys,
The lightning flashing free –
While the hollow oak our palace is,
Our heritage the sea.
Magical words that paint a scene and tell a story of those brave souls that dare to challenge the sea. Beautiful poem Rebecca. I’m so thankful that you shared this with us.
Thank you, Emily!!! Just tried over the weekend to upload via iPad. I learn something new every day… š
That is something to be proud about.
Isn’t she magnificent? Hope all is well with you.
Despite my lack of desire to sail, I love watching these re-built, re-created and replicated ships sailing into harbour.
I once saw one, the Duyfken I believe, sail into Port Hedland while I was surveying in a pile. So surreal to see such a vessel drift through my sites, passing giant ore carrying ships.
I’m with you – I have no desire to sail. I prefer power boats. I bet in your world, seeing these beautiful tall ships must be breathtaking.
I love the tall ships! You’re photos are great, but you didn’t post enough of them!
You are too funny ! Yes, I should have posted more, but didn’t want to over do it. š
Beautiful! It’s always very interesting to know the history behind the objects we admire.
I agree. History is all around us if we bother to look. We have to thank those people who have the vision to preserve history for future generations.
So incredibly beautiful…. What a fascinating story, WOW.
Thank you so much sweetie ! Got to thank blogging. I learn so much because of the things I discover.
Great photos and history lesson!
Thank you so much for your wonderful comment.
Tremendous scenes of this boat with excellent info!
I had always wondered about this ship and was so lucky that it was in Annapolis. The history is interesting too. Thanks Phil ! Hope you and the marsh are well.
Gorgeous photos, Bella.
Your generous comment makes me smile. Thank you so much!