Dorothy

Dorothy was built in 1897, in the century before the last century. Perhaps the oldest Canadian sailboat still sailing, she was built in Victoria, BC by J. J. Robinson. Dorothy is a 30′ gaff-rigged sloop designed by Linton Hope. Sleek lines and her excellent present-day condition belie her advanced years. What we call her mid-life refit was completed in 2024. Thanks to the support of donors and volunteers she is sailing again on her home waters of the Salish Sea.

Dorothy now serves as the Maritime Museum of BC’s sailing ambassador, recapturing the glory days of vintage sail. She is a regular visitor to regattas, opening days, festivals and junior sailing schools in the region. We make a special effort to get youth out for a truly classic sailing experience on a boat built before their great-grandparents were born.

Darling of the Salish Sea Tour

Dorothy‘s summer operations will connect her with thousands of visitors on the docks, and youth sailors out on the waves. See Dorothy at:

Saturday, 10 May
Ladysmith Yacht Club Opening Day
Sailpast off Transfer Beach at 11:00 AM

Saturday, 7 June
Maple Bay Yacht Club 100th Anniversary Celebration

9 June – 15 August
Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre Summer Exhibit
Check their website for events and sailings, as Dorothy may be out sailing and not at the docks.

Sunday, 22 June
Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre Wooden Boat Festival

Saturday, 2 August
Cow Bay Regatta

19-28 August
Junior Sailing Program Tour (dates and locations TBD)

29-31 August
Victoria Classic Boat Festival
At the docks all weekend, and Sailpast at 11:00 AM on Sunday, 31 August

What You Can Do for Dorothy

Dorothy‘s mid-life refit, ongoing summer operations, and endowment fund are supported by generous sponsors and many individual donors. You can be a Dorothy supporter; donate through the link below! To donate to Dorothy‘s endowment fund, please contact us at info@mmbc.bc.ca.