Sighting Sea Cloud

Seeing such a vessel secured to the pier was curious enough.  The four masted barque is longer than a football field.  Even at rest it is an impressive sight.  Then I saw the name on the bow.  Sea Cloud.  I couldn't believe it.  Sea Cloud was the personal yacht of cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, built sometime in the 30's when everyone else was still observing the depression and she lived like a queen.  (In addition to inheriting a lot of $$$, she married well and was quite a businesswoman herself.  And you thought she only endowed ampitheaters in Columbia.)

Surprisingly, the Sea Cloud lived on -- not as a private yacht, but as a cruise ship of sorts.  For those who can afford it (not me) the Sea Cloud is available to explore the Caribbean in the style of the Art Deco age that produced it.  And yes, despite her age, the dowager is as awe-inspiring as she was in her debutante years.

I'm only mentioning Sea Cloud because it reminds me of the planned essemblage of tall ships to celebrate the War of 1812 bicentennial.  These "Operation Sail" armadas are the crossroads where sports and recreation intersect heritage tourism and provide big bucks for the hospitality industry.

It seems every weekend sailor who has ever tossed a canvas, whether it be in recreational pursuits or competition, is enthralled by these magnificent vessels.  Many are maritime ambassadors who sail the globe (like our own Pride of Baltimore II) Some are trailing vehicles, like the Coast Guard's Eagle.  Some are even as old as the Sea Cloud. 

Past events have brought visitors to Maryland from all over the East Coast.  Watching the parade on the Chesapeake Bay (I first saw them at 1976 Bicentennial) is an unforgettable sight.

(Yes, the British participate in these sea spectacles.  They are remarkably good sports in celebrating wars they lost.  I think the Queen even sent Brittania as a goodwill gesture.)

Even though it's two years away, the prospect of another tall ships rally is something to stir the spirit.  You can learn more about the activities now being planned for Maryland's 1812 Star Spangled salute (which will run through 1814 and will include sports events like the Army-Navy game and an international soccer match,) go here:

(I hope they don't play up the part about torching the White House or wasting Bladensburg.  It isn't like we came through this skirmish completely unscathed.)

I also hope the Sea Cloud joins in the fun.  Though pushing 80, this classic beauty would definitely be the belle of the ball.