Where she comes from

South Carolina is a 140-foot, traditional sailing vessel called a schooner, a type of sailing vessel of archetypal American design dating from approximately the 1700s. The American schooner design achieved world-wide fame when, in 1851, the American schooner yacht America defeated a fleet of British yachts in a race circumnavigating the Isle of Wight to win what came to be known as  America’s Cup.

Spirit of South Carolina was designed as a replica of the 19th century Charleston Harbor pilot schooner Frances Elizabeth.   Her builder based her design on the famous schooner yacht  America. 

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She gets her name from the passion that built her. South Carolina shipwrights and volunteers laid each plank and drove every fastener just steps from her home port in downtown Charleston. Frames, planks and interior finish were shaped from South Carolina Live Oak, Cypress and Long Leaf Yellow Pine, widely regarded as the finest natural materials for shipbuilding.

Extensive varnish work showcases the raw beauty of these native woods and the fine craftsmanship joining it all together. With a massive main sail and fisherman staysail, Spirit’s silhouette is unmistakable. And with six sails and graceful, sleek sheer, she’s fast. She was built to accommodate 30 souls overnight and is well equipped for long-distance passages. She has the potential to sail anywhere in the world. Twin diesel engines assist when the wind is calm or harbors are crowded.