KINGSTON, N.Y. — The historic Hudson River Sloop Clearwater set sail for the first time this season on Saturday, embarking from the Hudson River Maritime Museum on the Rondout Waterfront.
The Clearwater, devised in 1966 by folk singer Pete Seeger and a group of activists, set sail for the first time in 1969 on a mission of environmental advocacy. The ship is now in its 55th year of sailing.
Despite a rainy afternoon, passengers lined up to board the ship for its inaugural sail of the season. Clearwater Onboard Program Coordinator Chloe Grey organized the passengers and gave them a short talk about safety on the ship.
Several came to the Waterfront just to watch the ship sail. Joelle Archuleta, a Port Ewen resident, watched the ship set sail with her husband, David. “It’s really historic,” she said. “I definitely want to go on one of the sails at some point, maybe when it’s less rainy.”
In an announcement on Tuesday, Clearwater staff said many more sails are scheduled for the season, with some featuring musicians and speakers.
“We look forward to inspiring thousands of kids and adults through our onboard programs and community events,” said Executive Director David Toman in a prepared statement.
There are 21 public sails scheduled for the season, with charter service also available. To view the full calendar of sails and purchase tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/rvmahn6z.
