"H.M. Schooner Bee"


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Seen here under full sail near her home base at Penetanguishene, Ontario. The "Bee" was one of three major transport vessels at the Penetanguishene Navel Establishment from 1817 to 1831. Initially referred to as a "Durham boat", the "Bee" was designed and rigged as a schooner to enable her to negotiate the waters of the Great Lakes. The "Bee" was offered for public auction in 1831.

The construction of the Replica "Bee" was part of a Canada Ontario Employment Development grant awarded to the "Friends of Sainte-Marie". Lenght 49 ft, Length (including spars)69.5 ft. Beam 15 ft. Draught 5 ft. Displacement approx 60,000 Pounds. Sail area 1275 Square feet.