Schooner Alabama

Martha's Vineyard

A schooner under sail is a beautiful sight.  Pictured here is the schooner Alabama, built originally in 1926 for the Mobile, Alabama Bar Pilots.  Upon retirement in 1966,  the schooner was purchased by the Coastwise Packet Company and moved to Vineyard Haven in 1967, by her new owner, Capt. Robert Douglas.  Captain Douglas not only founded the Coastwise Packet Company, but also the Black Dog Tavern which has spawned a whole line of apparel and other items featuring their famous "black dog" logo. He was responsible for restoring the Alabama and outfitted her for sailing.  Along with the schooner Shenandoah, also built by Capt. Douglas, the Alabama offers cruises and evening sails, sailing camps, and sailing instruction around Martha's Vineyard.  You can read more about the schooner and the history of the Black Dog Tall Ships here.