Through visits to ports across the United States and around the world, Pride of Baltimore II serves as Maryland's sailing ambassador, carrying a message of friendship, goodwill, and respect from Baltimore and the State of Maryland. She also shares the story of Maryland's rich maritime heritage, including the events of the War of 1812 that inspired the writing of our National Anthem in Baltimore.

Thanks to a generous grant from the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race, we are launching a new initiative to provide young adults with the opportunity to sail aboard Pride of Baltimore II during the Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race. Beginning with apprentices from the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, our goal is to grow this program in the years ahead by partnering with additional organizations and creating access for even more deserving young adults. Your support will help underwrite participant berths, covering the professional instruction, safety oversight, provisions, and operational support required for this multi-day sailing experience. By removing financial barriers, you make these opportunities possible for those who might never otherwise step aboard. Participants gain far more than sailing experience. They develop confidence, leadership, and teamwork while serving as part of a professional crew aboard Maryland's sailing ambassador. Along the way, they build practical seamanship skills, discover potential maritime career paths, and forge a lasting connection to the Chesapeake Bay and its maritime heritage. This program is about investing in people. It is about opening doors, broadening horizons, and inspiring the next generation of mariners, maritime professionals, and Chesapeake Bay stewards. The Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race has helped us launch this vision. With your support, we can sustain it, expand it, and ensure that these transformative experiences are available to young adults for years to come.