NOT-FOR-PROFIT, COMMUNITY-BASED BMC

Provides Experiential Maritime Programming for Area Residents

The Bayfront Maritime Center’s assortment of educational programs support the school’s efforts to maximize student achievement and personal development while encouraging them to become active participants in their own education.

More than 20,000 students have worked together at BMC to build 95 boats since its inception in 1998. Projects range from building wooden canoes, to building a replica of the Erie Boat, the 29′ cat-ketch rigged fishing boat that was in use when Erie, Pennsylvania was the freshwater fishing capital of the world, 1885-1915.

What Makes the BMC Experience Unique?

  • We utilize Erie’s challenging and engaging maritime environment to broaden horizons and build confidence.

  • We spend the summer months sailing, rowing and paddling on Presque Isle Bay.

  • We spend the winter months indoors where students are engaged in the boat shop experience.

  • We teach and reinforce the important academic and life skills that are crucial to students’ success.

  • We use maritime-related experiential learning to engage students and focus their attention on self-development, both academically and socially.

EASE logo

Adaptive Sailing (EASE)

Started in 2001, EASE allows community members, primarily youth, with physical and mental disabilities to sail independently on Presque Isle Bay.

Project COMPASS

Project SAIL apprentices got outside, sailing, learning to use real-world tools while engaged in boatbuilding and other construction projects, and improving their chances of finding employment.

Community Sailing

Community Sailing and Boating (CSB) is a program to reduce barriers and increase access to the waterfront and boating for our entire Erie community.

Schooner Porcupine

Schooner Porcupine

BMC is designing and building a representation of Erie’s historic Schooner Porcupine to be operated as a historic, sailing science vessel for area school students.

Courses

The Bayfront Maritime Center offers a a Coast Guard Captain’s License course and Power Squadron Safe Boating.

Bayfront Maritime Center logo

Past Programs

While not currently running, BMC could restart these programs at any time with the proper interest and funding.

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