Since 1998, the Bayfront Maritime Center (BMC) has been building kids by building boats on Erie’s Bayfront. From its school and boatshop tucked behind the Blasco Library and Erie Maritime Museum, BMC’s staff has worked with more than 10,000 young people, building over 100 boats through in-school, afterschool, and summer programs.
Ten years ago, BMC began its most ambitious project yet: constructing a replica of the 1812 Schooner Porcupine, the longest-surviving vessel of the Perry Fleet. Supported by students, volunteers, skilled shipwrights, and more than $600,000 in grant funding, the ship is nearing completion. Once launched, the Porcupine will serve as an environmental science lab and sailing vessel, offering hands-on learning experiences on Presque Isle Bay.
As we look to the future, BMC is exploring how the Porcupine can best serve the community—as both an educational platform and a unique sailing experience for students, families, and organizations.
We invite you to share your interest, ideas, and feedback to help shape programming and opportunities aboard the Schooner Porcupine.
