“Is this an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life?”
The teenagers’ answer was a resounding yes.
This summer, the generosity of an anonymous donor made two three-day sailing expeditions possible for 32 local teenagers between the ages of 14 and 17. Departing from New Bedford aboard the historic schooner Ernestina-Morrissey, the participants sailed across Buzzards Bay, anchoring at Cuttyhunk Island and Tarpaulin Cove on Naushon Island.
The program is an extension of the Coalition’s partnership with Massachusetts Maritime Academy to get New Bedford area youth aboard the schooner and experience Buzzards Bay firsthand.
The teenagers were divided into watch groups and, under the guidance of the ship’s Captain and crew, helped operate the vessel throughout the day and night. They stood watch, learned the rhythms of life at sea, and discovered the communication, teamwork, and leadership required to keep a historic sailing ship moving safely and smoothly.
“This trip wasn’t something that I thought I’d be interested in doing, but not only did I face up my fear of the ocean, I also had a fun time doing it, says Amad Walker (pictured below). “Being a teenager on a tall ship of that size, and meeting random people and other teenagers who I’d be working with for those three days helped me with leadership, communication, and stepping out of my comfort zone.”
He says had always wanted to board a tall ship. Not only did he board one, he can now proudly say he helped sail the Ernestina Morrissey.
For most of the participants, it was their first time aboard the Ernestina-Morrissey. For some, it was their first time on any boat. By the time they returned to New Bedford, they had gained far more than sailing experience—they had shared an adventure few will ever forget.
