The Virginia Maritime Heritage Foundation, owners and operators of Schooner VIRGINIA have returned schooner VIRGINIA to her homeport of Norfolk, VA and have winterized her until further notice.

Unfortunately, like many other non-profit organizations that have been negatively impacted by the current economy, the Foundation lost a significant source of funding and has run out of operating capital to support the mission of the vessel beyond 1/1/10.

After completing two weeks of adult education programs on Celestial Navigation in conjunction with Ocean Navigator Magazine, in December VIRGINIA returned to Norfolk. The return to Norfolk reduces the expenses of VIRGINIA and concurrently gives The Foundation the time needed to intensify efforts for additional funding and development of a sustainable operating model. It is hopeful that a modified 2010 schedule can be released at a future date to include VIRGINIA’s signature Youth Sail Training program this summer.

VIRGINIA had a very successful 2009 – the most successful youth sail training season in her history during the summer months, appearances at multiple tall ship festivals up and down the east coast as the Commonwealth’s goodwill ambassador (during which an estimated 40,000 persons crossed her decks), and more.

Most recently, the announcement of an exciting new partnership venture in adult education with Ocean Navigator Magazine, The Ocean Navigator School of Seamanship Aboard Schooner Virginia and also a new program with Exploritas.

To help us continue the important adult and youth education mission of VIRGINIA, please consider a tax-deductible donation.