The Bristol Schooner is an ideal design for cruising families. Based on a proven and highly respected hull concept, it offers spacious, seakindly comfort and classic beauty based on centuries-old traditions.
Sailor/boatbuilder John Steele built the first Bristol Schooner (PaPa) with his family. His inspiration had two sources. One was his years of experience at Covey Island building custom vessels with traditional styling. The other was the impact of a year-long sabbatical spent sailing in the Caribbean, Ireland and England with his family on 53' Marguerite T, an original (1893) Bristol Channel pilot cutter they owned and rebuilt.
Entirely satisfied with Marguerite T's performance, Steele chose her hull as the starting point for the Bristol Schooner's lines. As a Nova Scotian he wanted a schooner rig to connect the design with the traditions of North America.
Steele worked with designer Nigel Irens to modify the hull lines to suit his taste and a schooner rig.
PaPa was launched September 19, 2005. Subsequent Bristol Schooners are available from Covey Island, built to custom specifications and layout.
