We have set a goal to launch on April 1 and go sailing in Fall of 2017!
This is a motivating wake-up call on what needs to be done and how to refine the project management plan to meet our goals. It is clear we must work on many fronts at once, keeping the flow of materials and talent coordinated to make deadlines. To that end, we are fortunate to have an inspired team of woodworkers, sculptors, metalworkers, mechanics and painters as well as architects and engineers volunteering their talent. We now have over 100,000 volunteer hours accrued and still counting. We still need and will welcome many more volunteers, come join the fun.

Construction progress: The rudder is installed, Hull caulking and painting will be completed in January, deck house construction is full ahead now that the large propulsion equipment is installed. Two, 5″ by 4′ long holes for the shaft logs have been drilled with shafting, struts and mounts are now being fabricated. All spars have been made except the lower mainmast which is being glued up. Rigging is moving ahead with lower shrouds being served and leathered, ready to install on the lower masts. Electric wiring of the ship and propulsion system will begin in January when all USCG details are approved. We have six qualified volunteer electricians standing by to install it. Plumbing has begun. Fortunately our volunteer forces keep growing in numbers and skill averaging 15 to 25 per day along with five staff. We have created a huge construction momentum that must not be lost for lack of materials and funding. One million is required to launch and complete the ship debt free and begin operations in 2017!
Please consider how you can help now that we are so close to fulfilling our vision, a ship that will sail into the future, changing the lives of the hundreds of thousands of kids and adults who will have the opportunity to sail on her. We should all feel proud of the legacy we are creating. Come visit the ship to see what we have accomplished and share in the enthusiasm and pride of Matthew Turner’s ship-builders.
Fair Winds,
Alan Olson
A