Pirates Of Bermuda 2014 Raises Over $150,000
The Pirates of Bermuda raised more than $150,000 with their 2014 fundraiser held on Sunday, March 9, in an event that saw them take a number of “hostages” aboard the “Spirit of Bermuda.”
Organised by the Bermuda Sloop Foundation as part of its fundraising for the “Spirit of Bermuda” sail training programmes, friends and family were able to choose to donate towards a hostage’s ransom — or towards him or her having to walk the plank into the waters of the Hamilton Harbour.
Members of the public descended on Front Street in order to witness the fate of the hostages, with each either being freed with their charitable ransom paid, or being made to walk the plank.
A spokesperson said, “At this time, we are quite happy to inform you that we have surpassed our goal of raising $150,000 through our Pirates of Bermuda 2014 fundraising event, and still are receiving donations.
“This event represents about 10 percent of our annual budget and all funds go directly to supporting our Youth Development Programme. If people are still interested in making donations, they may do so by contacting our office directly via telephone at 737-5667.
The event even ‘went international’, with photos of the Bishop of Bermuda the Rt Reverend Nicholas Dill being taken “hostage” by the “pirates” featured in an issue of the UK’s Church Times newspaper.
Pirates of Bermuda hostages walk the plank:
Launched in 2006 and operated by the Bermuda Sloop Foundation, the “Spirit of Bermuda” is an educational vessel intended to introduce young Bermudians to the island’s maritime heritage.
The Spirit of Bermuda is based on civilian Bermudian-type schooners built in Bermuda between 1810 and 1840, and has provided training for thousands of young people, sailing to over 15 ports in 10 countries.
