A historic tall ship that has served as a floating classroom for decades could soon lose its home in the South Bay, after its operators received notice their lease is being terminated. The 137-foot schooner Bill of Rights, docked in Chula Vista Harbor since 2013, has provided hands-on maritime ed ucation to students of all ages. But two weeks ago, the nonprofit group that operates the vessel was told to vacate the marina by May 5. The ship is run by the South Bayfront Sailing Association, which uses the vessel to teach students ages 10 to 18 traditional sailing skills, navigation and teamwork. “It’s more than a classroom,” said Captain Don Johnson, who has led the program for years. “The kids operate the vessel under our supervision. They stand watch, steer the boat, do navigation. I do the cooking — nobody cooks but me. They clean up and maintain,” Johnson said. Built in 1971 on the East Coast as a replica of an 1850s-era schooner, the Bill of Rights originally operated without an engine for two decades, relying entirely on wind power. The termination of lease notice came from Safe Harbor Marina, which last year was acquired in a $5 billion deal by Blackstone Infrastructure. The company has been working to redevelop marina properties across the country. Johnson said they have not been given a clear reason for the lease termination. As of publication, representatives from Blackstone and Safe Harbor Marina have not responded to requests from NBC 7 for comment. Susan Johnson, who manages the program’s office, said a grassroots effort to save the ship has drawn attention nationwide. Susan Johnson with the South Bayfront Sailing Association, holds the lease termination letter ordering her non-profit organization out of the harbor, Chula Vista, Calif., March 21, 2026. “All tall ships from all over America know that Chula Vista exists — they’re all writing letters,” she said. “People are reaching out to elected officials and even contacting Blackstone directly.” An online petition is gaining traction, and local leaders, including the Chula Vista mayor and members of the City Council, have expressed support for keeping the ship in the harbor. Despite the uncertainty, programs aboard the ship are continuing for now. Upcoming sessions include visits from scouts, U.S. Navy Sea Cadets, and other student groups who will live and learn aboard the vessel. Captain Johnson said he remains hopeful the ship can stay. “I’m feeling pretty optimistic. We’re getting a very good response,” he said. “We’ve been the center of this community for 40 years.” Unless a resolution is reached, the Bill of Rights will be forced to leave its longtime home by early May — leaving its future, and its mission, uncertain. This is the main cabin of the Bill of Rights schooner. There is seating for 20 people at a time for meals, Chula Vista, Calif., March 21, 2026. Bill of Rights is a 137 foot 1850s replica of an American schooner. It was built in 1971, Chula Vista, Calif., March 21, 2026. ...read more read less