Historic Yorktown is now the permanent home of two new stellar ships at the Riverwalk Landing Piers.
Article and Photos Courtesy of: York County Public Affairs
The Schooner Alliance II and the Schooner Serenity will navigate the waters of the York River daily and offer day and sunset sails, pirate cruises, as well as private charters.
The Alliance II replaces its namesake vessel,which was sold to an education nonprofit in Michigan last year. Around the same time as the sale, new owners Erik Lohse and Tyler Bullock purchased York River Cruises from Lohse’s stepmother, Laura Lohse.
“It was so important to keep York River Cruises in the family because we understand the growth potential and the significance it brings to the community,” explained Erik. “We are incredibly fortunate to have found two boats that would allow us to carry on the Lohse legacy.”
There are other reasons the owners are adamant about sustaining their business in Yorktown – the ambiance and convenience.
“When I came aboard as the ship’s captain in 2019, I was blown away by the amount of water there was and how accessible the area is,” Tyler mentioned. “I’m so excited to be able to stay and work in Yorktown and call it my home.”
Kristi Olsen, director of York County Economic and Tourism Development, is excited about enhancing the on-water attractions available in Historic Yorktown.
“The Alliance II and Serenity will not only boost the economy, but will also give locals and tourists the opportunity to experience Yorktown’s breathtaking landscape and learn about the significance Yorktown’s ships played in U.S. history” she said.
While on board the Alliance II, Captains Erik and Tyler will steer guests past Yorktown Battlefield – the same spot where our country won its independence. Kids can raise the sails, steer the boat, and tie knots on a Pirate Adventure Cruise. Couples can enjoy a Sunset Sail as they scan the horizon for dolphins or scope out sea turtles. Day Sails and Pirate Adventure Cruises cost $45 for adults and $35 for children 12 and under. Sunset Sails are $55 per person (no age discount). Tours run through October 31.
The Schooner Serenity offers private, intimate sightseeing charters with a maximum of six passengers. Guests can enjoy two-hour Day Private Sails (10 a.m. and 1 p.m.) or two-hour Sunset Private Sails. Times for private sails vary through November 1. Day sails on the Serenity are $500 (plus gratuity) Monday through Friday and $550 (plus gratuity) on Saturday and Sunday. Sunset Sails are $600 (plus gratuity) Monday through Friday and $650 (plus gratuity) on Saturday and Sunday.
York County Economic and Tourism Development hosted a ribbon cutting and christening for both ships on Tuesday, May 30.
Additional Info:
· York County Economic and Tourism Development: 757-890-5900
· Yorktown Sailing Charters: 757-639-1233
· Website: www.sailyorktown.com
· Yorktown Sailing Charters on Facebook: @YorktownSailingCharter
· Visit Yorktown on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok: @VisitYorktown #visityorktown #york757 #SchoonerAllianceII #SchoonerSerenity
