The Nathan of Dorchester was commissioned on July 4, 1994. Funded by contributions and built by volunteers, the Nathan was built to preserve the wooden boat building technology and nautical heritage of the region. The skipjack is the Maryland State boat and Dorchester County led all others in the number of skipjacks built.

The Nathan offers residents and visitors alike an opportunity to participate in and enjoy our nautical heritage. Cruise on the scenic Choptank River, help raise her sails or take a turn at the helm, and hear stories of the working watermen.

The Dorchester Skipjack Committee, a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization, offers educational programs geared to adults or school children, focusing on the history, culture and natural environment of the region. The boat is staffed by volunteer crew who tell you about the construction of the vessel from its 61 foot loblolly pine mast to the historic equipment salvaged from old skipjacks no longer in service. After your ride, visit the Richardson Maritime Museum on High Street to see a collection of documents, artifacts and photos gathered during the building of the Nathan.