Spirit Of Bermuda To Compete In Marion Race
The Bermuda Sloop Foundation [BSF] announced that Spirit of Bermuda is competing in the 2023 Marion Bermuda race with opportunities for local sailors participate as crew – sailing to Massachusetts and racing back to Bermuda.
A spokesperson said, “The 645 mile, bi-annual ocean race starts in Marion, Massachusetts and ends off St. David’s Head. This year will be the first year the race has been held since 2019. The Marion Bermuda Race is a fully Corinthian event, meaning there are no professional yacht or crew entries, which appeals to a broad range of seafaring enthusiasts.
“BSF is seeking young sailors [18+] to help deliver the Spirit to Marion, Massachusetts for the start of the race. This sail training voyage will help younger sailors develop seamanship and navigation skills, and gain sea time and tall ship experience. The cost of the expedition is $1,000 per person, departing 8 June 2023 and all meals are included. Bursaries are available for student crew, but participants are responsible for their travel back to Bermuda.
“More experienced sailors have the opportunity to crew the Spirit in the Marion Bermuda race starting on 16 June 2023.”
A look at the Spirit Of Bermuda in Hamilton Harbour in 2021
CEO, Robin Hamill, said: “We are pleased to offer the voyage to Marion, Massachusetts to younger sailors who want to improve their maritime skills and gain more sailing experience. We always hold a few berths specifically for these sail training voyages. It’s part of our overall goal to provide challenging and meangingful experiences, and cultivate important skills such as grit, resilience, optimism, and self-regulation. There are bursaries available based on need, so anyone can apply.
“We also know there are many amateur sailors who would love to participate in a trans-Atlantic race, so local seafarers are invited to crew the Spirit for the journey to Bermuda. The experience of sailing on the Spirit will enhance anyone’s life – young or old.
“We have the capacity to take on both developing and experienced sailors for this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” he said.
The spokesperson said, “Sailors interested in experiencing the excitement and challenge of the Marion Bermuda race can contact info@bermudasloop.org to book their spots on the Spirit. Cost is $3,000 per person and meals are included [does not include travel to Marion, Ma.] All proceeds from the fee will benefit shipyard repairs to the Spirit of Bermuda. Younger sailors can also email info@bermudasloop.org to apply for the Sail Training Voyage to Massachusetts.”
