2024 U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stone - Tour in Charleston

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stone in Charleston 1/26/24

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stone was moored at the port in downtown Charleston for public tours on Friday, January 26. The tour was in conjunction with the Coast Guard making two announcements that celebrate their past relationship with the Charleston, and their future at the North Charleston Shipyard. The tours began at 9:30 a.m. under sunny skies, mild temperatures and heavy fog. The walkway onto the 418-foot ship was quite steep, and we accessed the help pad area for demonstrations of fire fighting equipment, and to learn about the different missions the crew of 109 sailors deploy on. 

Educational Coloring Book

Guided tours included going into the Bridge area where the ship is controlled from, and it boats a top speed of 28-knots and a range of 12,000-nautical miles. The Stone can carry three boats and one helicopter while at sea. A walk thought the bowels of the vessel included lots of loud noises from equipment running presumably to keep all her systems in a ready status. Going on to the bow allowed visitors to see the large gun mounted there, and all the anchor chains that criss cross the deck. All of the Coast Guard seamen were friendly and offered to shake hands or exchange names, and it was delightful tour in many ways. Which helps to keep in mind that Americans are grateful for the service of the Coast Guard.

To view past blog entries on wooden ships click on Nao Trinidad -  EOS - Windy- Grace- Aphrodite - Osprey - Annalee - Hinckley 

One of Three boats on the Stone

Serviceman exiting the USCG Cutter Stone