The ALABAMA is a 90' Gaff Rigged Fore and Aft Schooner, originally designed by Thomas McManus and built by Pensacola Ship Building Co. Florida in 1926.

Alabama displaces 150 tons and lofts 5000 square feet of sail. Used in Alabama by the Bar Pilot Association, she served until 1966 when she was purchased by the Coastwise Packet Co. and brought to Martha's Vineyard until such time as was fit to sail her again.

Her hull rested in Vineyard Haven Harbor until 1995 when she was completely rebuilt, with some design changes per Captain Douglas, in a massive three year effort by the G.S. Maynard Shipbuilding Co. This energetic effort was profiled in a long article in Wooden Boat magazine in 1998, written by Mr. Maynard.

Today in fine shape and form, Alabama is widely regarded as the ultimate example of yankee craftsmanship and traditional wooden shipbuilding.

Originally used as a moored bar pilot vessel, Alabama is now fast and seaworthy. Completely refitted for the passenger trade, and equipped with twin diesels, Alabama now schedules day and overnight cruises and also makes an ideal daysailer as well.

She is skippered by Capt. Morgan H. Douglas, third son of Captain Robert Douglas, who also helped in the reconstruction effort. The boat carries up to 49 passengers on day sails and 27 passengers overnight in her two spacious cabins. There is a crew of 6.

If you have any questions please call Morgan Douglas: 774-563-0185, 508-693-1699 or visit www.theblackdogtallships.com