Governor Stone Schooner - Panama City, Florida

bobisgud N.

My son completed two camps in 2024. He loved it. It was affordable, and lunch was included. Every time I picked my son up from the camp he had the brightest smile. His soul was very, very Happy. My son learned so much about sailing. Capt. Anderson and Mrs. Colleen are so knowledgable, respectful and kind. We can't wait for the next camp.

Jason H.

I was a frequent visitor to the marina where the Governor Stone was usually berthed and had seen the placard with information about it. I was stunned to learn that it was not a static museum piece, but instead was a working functioning vessel and that, for a reasonable donation you could go sailing on her. I took it for granted that it would always be there and eventually I would "Get around to it." Enter Hurricane Michael. I was so wrapped up in making repairs to my own place that it was months before I thought about the Governor Stone. I thought to myself, "Surely they got it out and sailed it somewhere safe." Alas, the storm hit our area and gained strength faster than anyone predicted and she was wrecked. I have been a member of the Friends of the Governor Stone for several years now. This community needs to come together and help rebuild this proud vessel, so that she may once again ply the waters around Bay County and the Gulf Coast, as she was designed to do. SAVE THE SHIP!!

s D.

The schooner Governor Stone is a gulf coast treasure.
The vessel has been plying these waters for over 145 years.
There is nothing like raising the sails, feeling the wind fill them, and watching as the vessel comes to life. Sadly the G.S. had a run in with Hurricane Michael and the hurricane won. Now thanks to the herculean efforts of the Friends of the Governor Stone {also known as F.O.G.S.} and local Panama City Shipwrights, the vessel is well on the way to sailing these waters once again. Help with this effort by joining F.O.G.S. and be a part of the resurrection of this this historic part of gulf coast maritime history.

Jo M.

I was only involved with the Governor Stone as a volunteer for a short time before Hurricane Michael destroyed it. In that short time, not only did I make new friends, but I learned a lot about a sailboat and all that it takes to keep it afloat. This, along with the marvelous rides aboard, make me look forward to lots more adventures to come!

B &. B.

This was one of the most memorable experiences I've ever had. We went out for one of the sunset cruises. The ocean was so blue and I loved taking photos of the rigging and sails. Do not hesitate to sail on the Governor Stone if you ever get a chance. The experience is priceless!

John D.

I found it exciting to be in heavy weather 100 miles offshore, racing a sloop or ketch-rigged sailboat to Mexico! But I have always found it to be exciting to be sailing in the very last schooner of its kind. The National Historic Landmark Governor Stone is a unique piece of history, and it was always an honor to be a part of the G.S. team at the helm, helping willing guests to raise or adjust the sails or just helping her dock and then setting everything right until the next time.

Experiencing what it was like on a >140 year old small schooner gives one a better understanding of people’s lives back then. I always learned something new listening to those who have been part of Governor Stone for many years longer than I have.

She has been damaged and sunk before - and her supporters have always brought her back. You can be one of those types of supporters now. I strongly recommend participating in her recovery and making the special effort to come and be a part of her history-making relaunching. It will feel good to know that you have had a role in preserving that unique piece of history and making her a living museum to enjoy again. You can ride on her and feel proud to say, “I helped this to happen!"

In the past, she was active and usually had the honor of leading the local annual Christmas parade, the blessing of the fleet, and other events up and down the coast. And we carry a small sailboat race starter cannon to get everyone else’s attention when needed. 😃 Or enjoy a quiet, relaxing sail around the bay with a picnic basket and small talk with whoever is on board.
I look forward to enjoying those things again and hope you join us!

John Darrah - member for 15 years.

Allan K.

Beautiful vintage vessel with history of the "old" Gulf of Mexico. FOGS members are very helpful explaining it's history as they rebuild her after a hurricane destroyed her. I was happy to make a donation to help rebuild this historical landmark.

Dan S.

My father worked as a mate for the Governor Stone and I got a free ride when the guv was at Apalachicola. Several years later My wife and I returned to Florida to ride again. This wonderful old schooner is a joy. We loved it.