Whenever I’m asked what I’d like to do for my birthday, my first thought goes to all the historical sites I want to see, which includes some scenic cuisine.
Intrigued by the recently acquired tall ship Providence in Alexandria, I chose a dockside tour and an evening sail, as well as lunch at my favorite restaurant, Virtue Feed and Grain, for my birthday adventure.
DOCKSIDE TOUR
Famed for its exploits under the command of John Paul Jones in 1776, the Providence is a recreated 18th century ship recently brought to Alexandria.
The only additions to its reproduction is modern safety features, to ensure safe sailing for modern guests.
Despite being a sloop (smaller than a warship) with only 24 guns, the Providence was fast!
Before boarding, we attended “boot camp”, where one of the crew members explained the need for various positions, enlisting us onto the ship as fellow crewmembers.
Not to worry, we were told. On the job training would be provided.
As various roles were called out, we volunteered as we deemed most apt (or least fearful) to our non-seaworthy legs. 😉
With our job card in hand, we boarded the gorgeous ship!
Meeting Captain John Paul Jones, himself, he trained us in our various roles, including navigation…
Carefully climbing the ladder below deck, we listened to Jones tell of his many exploits upon this speedy craft, which was his first naval command.
DINING WITH PROVIDENCE SPONSOR
After a great tour, we walked to Virtue Feed and Grain for a scenic lunch, overlooking the Potomac waterfront.
With the walls bedecked with the sailing theme of the day, Virtue Feed and Grain is a sponsor of the tall ship Providence, docked outside the restaurant.
After a delicious lunch, we walked about Old Town Alexandria, until the sail began later that afternoon.
UNFURLING THE SAILS
The greatest excitement of the evening was watching the crew climb the rigging to prepare the sails for unfurling.
First one crew member…
…then two!
After the crew’s preparation at the top of the rigging, they climbed down for the next exciting part!
Enlisting the guests to help with the unfurling of the sails, the crew carefully worked with the sailors-in-training through each step, which I captured on video.
Part I of my youtube video showcasing the unfurling of the sails.
Finally, Part III…
SUNSET SAIL
After the sails unfurled, we enjoyed sailing on the Potomac River near Washington DC, before returning to Alexandria, which was set against a stunning sunset.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN
As we left on this chilly and breezy October evening, the ship appeared perfect for a pirate movie.
Have you seen it as such?
In 2004, before Tall Ship Providence Foundation restored this recreated ship, the previous owner leased it to Walt Disney for Pirates of the Caribbean II and III.
Since John Paul Jones once lived in Fredericksburg, Virginia (the only American home he ever had), I’m sure he’d be proud that his first naval command is now docked in Virginia.
