Tall Ships at the Ocean Institute

Spirit of Dana Point

Click here to download our Spirit of Dana Point handout (PDF -- 556KB).

Sign up now for programs onboard the Spirit of Dana Point!

The Spirit of Dana Point is a traditionally built, accurate replica of a 1770's privateer used during the American Revolution. These ships were known for their speed and were used for smuggling and the slave trade. The ship is 118 feet long with a rig height of 100 feet... and 5,000 square feet of sail!

A young colony in a new land dreamed of independence and built some of the fastest and best sailing ships in the world. These ships were the result of ingenuity, independence and a strong desire to accomplish something. It was Dennis Holland's life dream to build an accurate replica from the period when America fought for independence. Armed with talent, determination, little money and plans he purchased from the Smithsonian Institution, he laid the keel in his yard on May 2, 1970. Thirteen years later this fast privateer was launched and continues to sail the ocean. Everywhere you look on board is the craftsmanship and pride of early America.

Formerly the Pilgrim of Newport, the newly re-named Spirit of Dana Point is an excellent platform from which our youth can directly experience life at sea as it has been for hundreds of years. Spirit sails on educational programs for over 150 days a year.

Whether sailing alongside gray whales, dolphins, or sea lions, the Spirit of Dana Point is also available for public and private charters, coastal sails, one day and overnight voyages to Santa Catalina Island, dinner cruises, weddings, parties, burials at sea, corporate team building and has also been used for movies, documentaries, commercials and catalogue shoots. Though not usually rigged with her square topsail and yards she can be so rigged on special occasions.

Programs Onboard the Spirit of Dana Point

A Whale's Tale Sailing Adventure
From "Devil Fish" to "Friendliest Whale," explore how time and discovery has shaped man's perception of the magnificent Gray Whale. Join us for an exciting tallship sailing adventure as you gain new insights on man's evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California coast.

Pyrate Adventure Sail
Cast off for an adventure aboard our 118' schooner, Spirit of Dana Point. Experience "pyrates" and sailors during the Golden Age of Sail.

Enjoy a fun-filled cruise with historical characters who will bring you back into their time!

Passage to the Pacific
Enjoy a relaxing evening aboard a historic tall-ship,sailing with friends or loved-ones to folk-music and maritime stories performed by our talented educators. Feel free to bring a picnic dinner along!

Children must be at least 4 years old to go aboard. OI members enjoy a 10% discount. Call (949) 496-2274 for reservations and availability.