Story

The Shenandoah Experience has been transforming young people’s lives— for the better—for nearly 60 years. By recognizing, utilizing, and enhancing young people’s strengths, we teach them to lead. They learn the importance of working as a group, the nature of bravery, and the joy of singing. They become familiar with every part of the ship and master new knots. They discover independence and that problem-solving can be fun. The experience instills a deep love of nature, the ocean, and our planet that remains with them for the rest of their lives.

By unplugging our youth from their day-to-day lives and placing them in a challenging and supportive environment with others their age, we spark an awakening about themselves and the world around them. It’s an experience that shapes them, stays with them, and becomes a part of who they are.

The extreme clipper topsail schooner Shenandoah is the head teacher on these transformative voyages. She is the only non-auxiliary power square-rigged vessel that frequently sails under the American Flag and demands constant attention and physical effort to sail her. Sailing aboard Shenandoah, you travel back in time to where water is fetched from hand pumps, food is cooked on a coal stove, and days are spent singing, working, and playing games with your shipmates.

Most voyages aboard Shenandoah are five-and-one-half-days long overnight with youth ages 9–17. While voyaging, the ship cruises the southern coast of New England with no itinerary, relying on the winds and tides to dictate the day. She is available for private charter.