Captain Richard "Kip" Files and Captain Paul DeGaeta, your captains and owners, purchased the Victory Chimes in 1990 from the corporation they worked for because they felt the vessel was an American nautical treasure that was heading for foreign ownership. At the time the only other interested buyers were a group of Japanese, who planned to bring this historic American sailing ship to Japan and convert it to a restaurant. DeGaeta and Files convinced the corporation to sell to them, rather than letting another American treasure leave the country. Kip, a Maine native, and Paul, who hails from Florida, are both licensed masters and bring over 60 years combined boating experience to the Victory Chimes. Their commitment to service and tradition has allowed the Victory Chimes to remain in the forefront of American windjamming. Paul's and Kip's experiences have been highlighted in Nautical Quarterly, Lakeland Boating, The New York Times, Boston Globe, Houston Post, Toronto Star, and CBS Sunday Morning, to name a few. Whether you sail with Kip or Paul, or are lucky enough to have them both aboard, their enthusiasm for sailing a classic Tall Ship is matched with the pride they take in their service to you as a passenger and to the traditions of a bygone era.

The Crew

Our crew is comprised of young men and women who are courteous, friendly, well trained, and knowledgeable about the ecology and history of Penobscot Bay and their Schooner Victory Chimes . You will note their enthusiasm on boarding night as they give you a tour of the vessel and help you settle into your cabin. Both Captain's DeGaeta and Files have had long careers running private or corporate vessels and bring a strong emphasis on personal service to the Victory Chimes and her passengers.

Barter for a Trip

Paul and Kip have time for a few other interests during the Winter months when they aren't sailing. We each set aside a couple of trips for bartering each season along with a couple that we give for Charity Auctions to causes we hold dear. If you have something we are into, run it by us and barter for a cruise or a portion of payment for one. We are interested in the following items: Paul who does historical traveling exhibits during the winters, seeks WWII or other military memorabilia of any type, collects Japanese swords and is looking for a 1942-45 Willys jeep in any condition and a painted A-2 Flight Jacket. Kip enjoys skiing in the Winter and likes interesting ski packages, wants Nautical Art including oil paintings, Nautical antiques or an MG Hardtop in any condition. We will also consider other interesting antiques or stuff. Let us know by running it by Paul DeGaeta at 2936 Peace River Drive, Punta Gorda, FL, 33983 (941) 624-0705.