Historic Schooner ‘Bill of Rights’ Receives Notice of Reprieve

San Diego’s “Official Tall Ship,” Bill of Rights, has received notice that it can remain at its dock in Chula Vista. While the reprieve appears temporary, it is a sign that the ship may continue to have a home within its community. The news came after South Bayfront Sailing Association, which maintains the ship, urged the sailing community, residents and organizations that utilize the ship’s educational programs to petition for the right to stay at the dock.

The ship has called Chula Vista home for decades and has been docked at the marina since 2013, becoming a recognizable and beloved feature of the South Bay waterfront community. The schooner has served as a floating classroom and living waterfront museum. Operated by the South Bayfront Sailing Association (SBFSA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the vessel has hosted sea cadet training, sail-training programs, youth leadership development, boatbuilding classes, and maritime history education for thousands of participants from across San Diego County and beyond.

Bill of Rights’ captain Don Johnson told local news outlets that talks are ongoing. “We have more work to do and a little more discussions and negotiations,” Johnson said. In an interview with 10News San Diego Johnson acknowledged the marina’s decision and said the marina was “well within their rights,” and that “They’re exercising a provision within the contract.”

South Bayfront Sailing Association had been informed in March that the organization’s dock lease would not be renewed and would terminate on May 5, 2026, leaving the ship and the maritime education programs she supports without a berth.