Circe, a sailboat designed by the prodigious Ben Seaborn at the tender age of seventeen, was launched in 1932 at Lake Union Drydocks in Seattle. This vessel, marking Seaborn’s debut in yacht design, quickly became a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest’s sailing community. Circe’s design was not just innovative for its time but was also a testament to Seaborn’s intuitive understanding of naval architecture, leading her to compete twice in the prestigious Trans Pacific race from Santa Monica to Honolulu. Her racing pedigree was established early on, with her first race just two weeks after her launch, where despite not winning, she captured the admiration of all who watched, setting the stage for her storied racing career.
Over the decades, Circe’s legacy grew, not just as a racing yacht but as a symbol of maritime heritage. She was not merely a boat but a living piece of history, reflecting the golden age of yacht design where craftsmanship and innovation intersected. Her participation in races like the Swiftsure, where she notably won in 1934, further cemented her reputation. However, Circe’s journey wasn’t solely about victories; it was about enduring the test of time, undergoing various ownerships and maintenance, each steward adding to her narrative. The boat’s recent acquisition by Michael Gifford in 2021 marked another chapter, where the focus shifted towards preservation and education, ensuring Circe’s story sails into the future.
Today, Circe stands as more than just a vessel; she’s a beacon of Seattle’s maritime past, embodying the spirit of adventure and the art of yacht design. Her ongoing restoration, spearheaded by dedicated individuals, isn’t just about maintaining a boat but about keeping alive the legacy of Ben Seaborn and the era of handcrafted, bespoke yachts. Circe’s presence on the water continues to inspire, drawing enthusiasts and historians alike, reminding all of a time when sailing was as much about the journey as it was about the destination. Her story, intertwined with the fabric of Seattle’s sailing history, invites future generations to appreciate and learn from the maritime heritage she represents.