The Blockade Runner Project

The blockade runner will develop future national and international leaders from a state that has had limited representation in politics, business, and the media. The "Ship" will bolster education in a state that needs to raise student performance scores. The "Ship" will act as a roaming ambassador to the state promoting local economic development and work to improve awareness of North Carolina maritime history, students aboard the blockade runner will be involved in scientific studies of marine life in the North Carolin wetlands and off shore waters.

The Blockade Runner will provide an positive and life changing educational experience. Students who embark will return with a new understanding of responsibility, teamwork, leadership and self-confidence.

The sight of a handsome steam and sail ship on the Cape Fear River waterfront will be an attraction for North Carolina residents and visiting tourists and add a nautical treasure to the state's popular attractions.

More than just a platform for sail and power boat training, the "SHIP" will be a symbol that pays tribute to the unique role that the Cape Fear River basin has played in the history of North Carolina and the eastern seaboard. The "SHIP" will be first Blockade Runner built utilizing both sail and steam power in over 140 years. She will be a beautiful, fast, world -class ship, which everyone in North Carolina can be proud to have as a representative in port cities along the Atlantic coast. Wherever she sails the "SHIP" and her crew will serve as North Carolina's goodwill ambassador.

An active working display of an important era of history to Wilmington and the South.
A class room where "at risk kids" can learn and participate in the handling and sailing of this ship
A tourist attraction for the waterfront that will enhance the existing maritime history of North Carolina
In building the ship the public will be invited to join in the actual construction phase on this project
An ongoing activity for active seniors to get involved in with the tours of the ship, the selling of souvenirs and tickets
The public will be invited to ride on the B/R for a fee and enjoy the living history of steam and sail. This experience is not available to most .

The river front of Historic Downtown Wilmington will serve as an ideal and complimentary location for the Blockade Runner.