⚓ Welcome Aboard the Suncoast Horizon! ⚓
A Traditional Schooner with a Story to Tell
Step back in time and experience the charm of a classic American sailing vessel—Suncoast Horizon, a two-masted schooner designed by renowned naval architect Merritt Walter. Inspired by 19th-century coastal schooners that once worked these very waters, this vessel was built not just to sail, but to tell a story.
A Modern Classic
Though she looks like she sailed right out of the 1800s, Suncoast Horizon is a modern-built schooner crafted for today’s passengers. Her gaff-rigged sails, sweeping lines, and wide open deck reflect a bygone era—while her sturdy construction ensures a safe and comfortable ride.
- Designer: Merritt Walter
- Builder: A & M Manufacturing – Old Town, Florida
- Year Built: 2000
- Rig Type: Gaff-Rigged, Topsail Schooner
- Construction: Steel over traditional lines
- Length: 55 feet
- Capacity: USCG-certified for up to 28 passengers
Features to Notice
- Two Masts with Traditional Gaff Sails – A hallmark of schooners from the golden age of sail.
- Flush Deck – Ideal for sightseeing, relaxing, or dancing under the stars.
- Handcrafted Details – Wood trim, belaying pins, and rigging that pay tribute to maritime craftsmanship.
- Bow Sprit – Extending forward like a ship charging into the past.
What Was She Built For?
Today’s Rover style schooners are used for:
- Sunset cruises & sightseeing sails
- Educational programs & pirate-themed adventures
- Private charters & special events
But they’re all grounded in heritage and storytelling—sailing reminders of America’s coastal past. Suncoast Horizon isn’t just a boat—she’s a floating connection to history, powered by wind, guided by tradition, and designed to create lasting memories.
Ask the crew about her rigging, her voyages, or how to hoist a sail!