The year John Steele sailed on 53' Bristol Channel pilot cutter Marguerite T with his family included one particularly rough passage from Bermuda to the Azores among a fleet of other cruisers. "Many boats were damaged, and all crews were exhausted. The skipper of Opal, a 100 foot Danish schooner, who had crossed the north Atlantic seven times, claimed it was his worst passage," recalls Steele.

"On Marguerite T we certainly were wet, but not uncomfortable and nothing broke." Steele concluded that for an ocean voyaging vessel, a heavy displacement, full keeled hull with an easily managed rig was what he wanted.

Each Bristol Schooner will be finished to a layout plan and specifications developed with the Owner to suit their needs, taste and budget. Covey Island will assist them in selecting from a wide range of materials, finishes, gear and equipment to ensure their schooner exactly fits their lifestyle and cruising plans.

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