This is a unique and collaborative fundraiser by World Ocean School (WOS) and Alexandria Seaport Foundation (Seaport) to cover the costs for up to 10 current and graduate Apprentices to sail in the 2026 Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race aboard the Schooner Denis Sullivan and Pride of Baltimore II for an educational trip of a lifetime.

Schooner Denis Sullivan: is a three-masted wooden gaff rigged schooner originally from Milwaukee. The only existing replica of a 19th century Great Lakes schooner, she was envisioned and built by a Milwaukee-based team of professionals and volunteers.

World Ocean School: We empower students from all backgrounds to be courageous and compassionate changemakers for themselves, their communities, and our planet through transformative education aboard our iconic tall ships. World Ocean School provides immersive, hands-on education to more than 600 students from diverse backgrounds each year. Since its founding in 2002, more than 23,000 students have participated. 

Alexandria Seaport Foundation: The Apprentice Program is designed for young adults aged 18-23 who are eager to find a new path. Seaport uses the crafts of woodworking and traditional boatbuilding to teach job skills and positive habits that apprentices need for success in their work and personal life. Apprentices work alongside carpenters, boat builders, and volunteer mentors who teach and challenge them each day.

The young people Seaport serves need support to create a good life. Many have had issues with law enforcement, some have not succeeded in school, and many may suffer from anxiety or depression. The Apprentices need a nurturing environment to learn, grow, gain confidence, and build a path toward self-sufficiency and success.  Seaport’s curriculum, adult mentoring, community support, and career exploration give our Apprentices the positive environment they need.