SF Bay’s New Tall Ship Taking Shape

For decades it’s been a sore point among Bay Area tall ship aficionados that San Francisco — despite its rich maritime history — does not have a bona fide tall ship that calls the Bay home. But thanks to the vision of local schoonerman Alan Olson and others, that sad fact will soon change.

For more than a year now, a cadre of talented shipwrights has been using both modern and age-old techniques to bring the 140-ft Matthew Turner to life. Once completed, she will serve as a platform for experiential education for "students of all ages," with programs that focus on marine ecology, sustainability, teamwork, leadership and local maritime history.

If you haven’t dropped by the build site at Sausalito’s Marina Plaza yet, tomorrow evening would be an excellent time to do so, as the builders are hosting their annual celebration and fundraiser — this time with a Gilligan’s Island theme. (Wear your luau garb.)

The two-phase event will begin inside the construction tent, so all attendees can get up close and personal with the ship’s keel and rib construction, and can check out both the detailed construction plans and the special tools used in the process. There will be live music by Sausalito’s salty Waterfront Pickers, as well as great food from Saylor’s, and beer and wine from local breweries and vintners. 

Part two of the program will be held in the adjacent Bay Model Visitor’s Center, with a build-status presentation, silent auction and live music by Uphill Both Ways. The event promises to be big fun, and your attendance will directly contribute to ship’s completion. Tickets available at the door, $75 for adults, $30 if under 21. The fun begins at 6 p.m. We’ll see you there.