STV Pathfinder returns to sail training in Hamilton Harbour thanks to Breakwater Investments

September 9, 2021

Brigs Youth Sail Training (Brigs) is pleased to announce, through the generous support of Blair McKeil of Breakwater Investments, the tall ship STV Pathfinder will return to sail training in 2022.

STV Pathfinder, operated by Brigs Youth Sail Training, will join her sister ship, TS Playfair in offering sail training courses starting in 2022. (CNW Group/Brigs Youth Sail Training)

Following an extensive refit, Pathfinder will rejoin her sister ship TS Playfair in Brigs’ homeport of Hamilton, Ontario. Together, the two Brigantines will offer sail training courses to youth and adults. Brigs, a 60 year-old not-for-profit organization, will operate the tall ships and offer over 350 spots annually for new trainees to come on board starting in the summer of 2022. 

“The return of the original vessel, Pathfinder, to sail training is exciting for the Hamilton Community and we’re incredibly honoured to lend support and be a partner to Brigs,” says Blair McKeil, President and CEO of Breakwater Investments. “The teamwork and skills that youth gain through the sail training program not only fosters and rewards self-confidence, leadership and character building but most importantly, connects young people from all walks of life and nurtures lifelong friendships.” says McKeil.

Commissioned in 1963, STV Pathfinder was one of Canada’s first specially designed sail training ships. Thousands of young people have learned to sail on her and many graduates of Brigs’ sailing programs have gone into marine careers. 

“Pathfinder was Brigs’ first vessel and it holds a very special place in the hearts of thousands of our alumni,” said Francis Clegg, president and board chair of Brigs Youth Sail Training. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Pathfinder back to sail training and to now be able to offer many more berths on our popular summer courses. All of us at Brigs are beyond grateful for the generosity of Mr. McKeil and his team in embracing our vision and for providing the financial support and technical expertise to make this happen.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Pathfinder to its new Hamilton home,” said HOPA Ports President & CEO Ian Hamilton. “What better way to celebrate our port city and its maritime heritage than to help foster a new generation of young people as passionate about the Great Lakes as we are.”

Brigs is now sending out a call for volunteers to help with maintenance, outreach, fundraising and programming. To get involved visit brigs.ca/updated or email office@brigs.ca.

Registration for 2022 courses will open at the end of August. More information is available at brigs.ca,  Facebook and Instagram @brigs.sailing.