This unique partnership between the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) and Yorktown Sailing Charters LLC allows paid guests to learn about Chesapeake Bay and its marine life from VIMS researchers during 2-hour Wednesday afternoon cruises on the York River aboard the 105-foot schooner Alliance.

For details, reservations, and pricing, visit www.schooneralliance.com

Spring 2013 Schedule

April 17: Fishes near and far 

Graduate student Kathryn Sobocinski of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science will cast a net to see what’s swimming beneath the Alliance. A “show and tell” of preserved fishes from places near and far will be shared by VIMS’ Collections Manager Sarah Huber.  You’ll also learn how fish are preserved and catalogued.

May 15: “Ghost” Pots in the Bay

Team up with marine researcher Kory Angstadt of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science to learn how VIMS scientists and local watermen use sonar to locate derelict, “ghost” crab pots on the floor of Chesapeake Bay so they can be removed to protect marine life.

May 29: Drifters and Jellies

Professor Dr. Deb Steinberg of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science will use zooplankton netted from the York River to discuss the wonderful variety of Bay “drifters”  and the important role these creatures play in marine ecology and food webs.

July 17: Underwater Vehicles

Join researcher Rochelle Seitz of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for a hands-on look at remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and see how scientists use this technology for environmental monitoring and restoration.