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Scrimshaw

Sail aboard a classic Block Island schooner

Scrimshaw, a custom-built Block Island schooner, combines historic craftsmanship with exceptional seaworthiness and now offers 2.5-hour public sails for an intimate and unforgettable maritime adventure.

Custom Block Island Schooner Scrimshaw

Inspired by the rugged and seaworthy Block Island boats of the 1840s, Scrimshaw is a beautifully crafted double-ended schooner designed for exceptional handling and comfort at sea. Known for her smooth motion in rough waters, she rides the waves like a duck and inches windward with ease, no matter the conditions. Built in 1947 and launched in 1960, she features a Port Orford cedar hull over oak frames, reflecting the time-honored craftsmanship of traditional wooden boatbuilding.

After decades of careful stewardship by a professional mariner, Scrimshaw was donated to the Maritime Museum of San Diego in 2020, where she continues to share her legacy with the public. Now, guests can experience her firsthand on a 2.5-hour public sail, limited to six passengers for an intimate and immersive sailing adventure.

Step aboard Scrimshaw and become part of a living maritime tradition, where history, craftsmanship, and the spirit of the sea come together for an unforgettable sailing experience.

Set Sail on a Classic Schooner Adventure

Experience the thrill of traditional sailing aboard Scrimshaw on a 2.5-hour public sail, where up to six guests can enjoy an intimate and hands-on adventure. Glide through San Diego Bay aboard this beautifully crafted schooner, feel the wind fill her sails, and immerse yourself in the timeless art of seamanship.

Coming Soon – expected release date April/May 2025

Interesting Facts

  • Classic Design: Inspired by the rugged Block Island boats of the 1840s, built for seaworthiness and smooth sailing.
  • Historic Craftsmanship: Constructed in 1947 with a Port Orford cedar hull over oak frames, reflecting traditional wooden boatbuilding.
  • Exceptional Handling: Known for her stable and comfortable motion, even in rough seas, making her ideal for short-handed sailing.
  • Rich Maritime Legacy: Served under a professional mariner for decades before being donated to the Maritime Museum of San Diego in 2020.
  • Public Sailing Adventures: Offers 2.5-hour public sails for up to six guests, providing an intimate and immersive sailing experience.
  • Timeless Experience: Step aboard Scrimshaw and connect with maritime history, expert craftsmanship, and the spirit of the sea.

Ship Statistics

LOA (Length Over All) 46′ 6″
Beam 13′ 8″
Year launched 1960
Designer Robert S. French
Builder Elite Boat Works, San Pedro CA
Construction Carvel plank Port Orford cedar hull – 1 1/2” net thickness over bent and sawn oak frames