Story

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982, the Zodiac is the largest working schooner on the West Coast. Lovingly restored, she now sails with up to 49 passengers through the waters of Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and international trips to Canada (SOLAS certified). A variety of one to twelve day cruises include education and recreation and provide passengers with hands-on sail training, maritime programs, and shore explorations. There is an emphasis on natural resources, the environment and recycling. Built 1924 in Boothbay Maine, the Zodiac was the private yacht for the Johnson and Johnson pharmaceutical heirs. She explored the Arctic in 1925 and sailed in the 1928 transatlantic race to Spain. The San Francisco Bar Pilots bought her in 1931, renamed her California, and sailed her off the Golden Gate for more than 40 years. Retired in 1972, the schooner has been restored to her original sail plan and given back her maiden name. For 30 years her mission has been to help young sailors advance with their Coast Guard licenses, maintain herself as a national maritime treasure, and provide unique charter experiences for the public.