US Sailing is proud to announce a new partnership with The Windjammer Way, a modern revival of classic windjammer cruising dedicated to restoring and operating magnificent historic vessels throughout the Caribbean. This collaboration unites sailing with maritime heritage preservation, creating unique opportunities to advance the sport while honoring its rich traditions.
Together, US Sailing and The Windjammer Way will explore collaborative initiatives including offering unique experiences to US Sailing members, content and storytelling to spotlight sailing culture and heritage, and events that bring sailing’s rich history closer to new audiences.
This partnership strengthens the shared mission of both organizations to encourage participation in the sport of sailing with a focus on maritime tradition. The Windjammer Way’s commitment to traditional seamanship and craftsmanship, combined with their bold, modern approach to community engagement, aligns with US Sailing’s values.
“Partnering with The Windjammer Way represents a celebration of sailing’s roots and future,” said Charlie Enright, US Sailing Chief Executive Officer. “Their mission to restore historic vessels and offer them to the world resonates with our commitment to legacy and connection through the water. This partnership allows us to explore the traditions that make our sport so special.”
Restoring a Legend: The 102-Year-Old S/V Mandalay
Leading The Windjammer’s Way fleet is the iconic S/V Mandalay. The vessel’s journey through history reads like a maritime adventure novel. Built in 1923 as a luxury yacht by renowned financier E.F. Hutton for his wife – and Post cereal heiress – Marjorie Merriweather Post, the Mandalay later served as a research vessel for Columbia University, putting in over a million nautical miles and helping to prove the continental drift theory, before becoming a beloved Caribbean charter ship. Each chapter of her life left its mark – from Gilded Age luxury fittings to scientific equipment modifications to decades of charter service wear.
The Mandalay is currently undergoing a complete restoration, far beyond cosmetic repairs, with estimated completion by Spring 2026. The Windjammer Way’s craftsmen are rebuilding her steel hull, restoring traditional rigging systems, and preserving original design elements while incorporating modern safety systems. The project represents one of the most ambitious classic vessel restorations currently underway in the world.
“The overwhelming response to our crowdfunding efforts demonstrates how much people value authentic sailing experiences and maritime preservation,” said Charles J. Kropke, CEO of The Windjammer Way. “Partnering with US Sailing elevates our mission and creates exciting possibilities for sharing our restored vessels with sailing enthusiasts at every level.”
The Mandalay represents just the beginning of The Windjammer Way’s ambitious vision. As the flagship of a planned diverse fleet of beautifully restored sailing vessels, she will lead intimate voyages to every remote anchorage and hidden cove throughout the Caribbean. The company’s long-term mission extends beyond a single restoration – they’re assembling a collection of classic ships designed to reach the far-flung corners of the Caribbean that larger vessels simply cannot access, offering passengers authentic sailing adventures to pristine locations few travelers ever experience.
About The Windjammer Way
The Windjammer Way is restoring the golden age of sail, one classic vessel at a time. Their flagship project, the S/V Mandalay, is being completely rebuilt by hand in the Caribbean to return her to full working order and full glory. Through their crowdfunding campaign, they’ve created a unique opportunity for people to actually own part of a legendary schooner and become co-captains in her next century of adventures. Learn more at www.thewindjammerway.com.