The Shipyard at Burlington

The Burlington Shipyard, where the Schooner Lois McClure is being constructed, is made possible by the generosity of the Lake Champlain Transportation Company. The location at the ferry dock at the foot of King Street on the Burlington waterfront is ideal.

At the shipyard you can watch, or lend a hand, as experienced craftsmen and volunteers fashion timber, iron, cotton and canvas into a working schooner. There are interesting exhibits and hands-on activities for everyone. There are courses and workshops offered in boat building and traditional maritime skills.

The vessel is modeled after the “1862” class General Butler and the O.J. Walker, two historic shipwrecks located within 1/2 of a mile of the construction site. Both of these sites are open to the public as part of our underwater historic preservation system. The Lake Champlain Transportation Company is the museum's principal partner and the Burlington Schooner Project is also expected to provide opportunities for collaboration with other waterfront initiatives.

The schooner will be named in honor of Lois McClure, who along with her husband Mac, has been a major contributor to this and many other worthy community projects in the greater Burlington area.

The Museum at Basin Harbor


Open May 1–October 12, 2003, daily, 10 A.M. to 5 P.M.
Through nautical exploration,hands-on exhibits and learning adventures for all ages, Lake Champlain MaritimeMuseum brings to life the stories of Lake Champlain and its people.

Discover why Lake Champlain is considered the most historic body of water in North America. Explore vibrant history and characters of the Champlain Valley through its military, commercial and recreational periods. View a large collection of original small watercraft built over the last 150 years. Learn about the largest collection of wooden shipwrecks in North America and talk to archeological conservators in our Nautical Archeology Center. Step back in time as you climb aboard the 54’ square-rigged Revolutionary War gunboat replica Philadelphia II and learn about the life of citizen soldiers in the Champlain Valley in 1776. Watch craftsmen continue traditional maritime skills of boatbuilding and blacksmithing in our working shops. Museum store, children’s playground, picnic area on site. Red Mill restaurant next door.

All tours are self guided allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. Take advantage of one of the many scheduled demonstrations available throughout the days.

Our rich maritime heritage is brought to life through a large collection of original, small watercraft built in the region over the past 150 years. Watch boat building in progress in our modern Boat Shop. Learn the art of traditional boat building and maritime related crafts, blacksmithing, basketry, and photography in week long and one or two day workshops.

Imagine what life was like in 1776 as your walk the decks of the 54' square-rigged Revolutionary War gunboat replica Philadelphia II on exhibit, rigged, armed, and afloat in the museum's North Harbor. Learn about the naval defense of Lake Champlain and 18th century boat building in a special exhibit, "The Revolutionary War in the Champlain Valley."

Come discover why Lake Champlain is considered one of the most historic bodies of water in North American. Visitors will find exhibits focusing on Shipwrecks and Nautical Archaeology, Military History, Full-scale replicas, Live Demonstrations and original small watercraft. Browse the Gateway Museum Store, which features a fine selection of regional, historical, boat building and youth titles as well as maps, prints, traditional toys and kits, and many exclusive museum items. Enjoy a picnic lunch or have a meal at the Red Mill Restaurant just next door. Juice, soda and water are available on site. Ample free parking. Allow at least 2 hours for your visit. Admission is good for two consecutive days.

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