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 2012 Schedule

Native American Anglers

(April 25, 2012)  Join Kattie McMillan, an outreach specialist at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science, as she describes the inventive methods—including hooks, nets, and spears—developed and used by Native Americans to harvest the rich marine resources of Chesapeake Bay.  

Chesapeake Bay Drifters

(May 16, 2012) Graduate student Josh Stone 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.

“Ghost” Pots in the Bay

(May 23, 2012) Team up with marine researcher David Stanhope 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.

From HMS to ROV—the Past and Future of Marine Research

(June 6, 2012) Sailing ships like the schooner Alliance were once the pinnacles of marine technology. Join professor Mark Patterson of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for a hands-on look at the next generation of marine research vehicles—underwater robots. Learn how these remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) are helping to advance marine science, environmental monitoring, and homeland security. (postponed from May 30 due to weather)

Oysters on the Main Sail

(June 13, 2012) Come aboard the schooner Alliance as Anu Frank-Lawale, breeding research manager at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science's Shellfish Hatchery, discusses oyster biology and the story behind the recent upsurge of oyster aquaculture in Chesapeake Bay. (postponed from April 18)