The "tugantine" Norfolk Rebel is the world's first (and only) sail-powered, schooner-rigged tugboat. The Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race got its start when, in 1988, Captain Lane Briggs of the Norfolk Rebel challenged the Pride of Baltimore II to a race down the Bay. Now owned and operated by Lane's son Steve Briggs, the Norfolk Rebel is still in many ways the heart and soul of the GCBSR. 

Norfolk Rebel is racing on behalf of the Elizabeth River Project. ERP's mission is to restore the Elizabeth River to the highest practical level of environmental quality through government, business and community partnerships. 

In a normal year, the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race takes dozens of schooners out on the Bay, racing from Baltimore down to Norfolk. But 2020 is not a normal year.

This year, we're holding a Virtual Race! Each of our schooners has picked a nonprofit partner, and is racing to raise as much money as possible for charity. YOU can participate in the race by choosing a schooner, making a contribution, and sharing this webpage with your family and friends! 100% of gifts will go directly to charity, and will help make the Chesapeake Bay region a healthier, stronger, and more beautiful place to live.

Donations of $50 to $249 will receive a Commemorative Face Mask.  Donations of $250 and above will receive a Commemorative "Q" Flag Burgee !!!!

Gifts are considered tax-deductible contributions to the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race. At the end of the race, GCBSR will contribute 100% of your donation directly to your team's charitable cause.

Please note: The Chesapeake Bay schooner community could not exist without people like you, and we're eager to keep in touch. If you opt in to email communications when you donate, GCBSR will share your contact information with the schooner you support, as well as the partner nonprofit that will receive your donation. If you do not wish to be contacted, please opt out of communications on the donation form.