28' Friendship Sloops (1979) - FRIEND SHIP & WILD ROSE

The Friendship Sloop design was honed in over many generations to fit the fishing and lobstering needs in Muscongus Bay on the Maine Coast. These boats were stout and sturdy and were meant to handle a fair amount of weather, but also fast enough to get a good market price for the day’s fishing catch.

The original builders of Friendship Sloops constructed them in a variety of lengths, but they followed the same general formula: an elliptical stern, a clipper bow, and a gaff-rig.

After the advent of motors around 1915, Friendship Sloops’ fishing career gave way to progress, but their graceful lines and character are reminiscent of simpler times gone by and many now enjoy these boats as recreational enjoyment as well as passenger service.

Due to their historical significance, masterful poise cutting through the water, and distinguished craftsmanship, Friend Ship and Wild Rose are operated by Whistling Man Schooner Co. in Burlington, VT where they share the joy of sailing on Lake Champlain with guests from all over the country.