How would you like to own a 54-foot long (at the waterline), 17th Century square-rigged ship?

There’s one for sale in St. George’s. But there’s a catch — she doesn’t float and is fixed to the middle of Ordnance Island.

Entrepreneur Nick Duffy is selling the replica of the Deliverance that has been a St. George’s landmark since the early 1970s.

The ship, which was originally built by the Bermuda Junior Service League, is a replica of the vessel built by the Sea Venture <$>castaways which sailed with the Patience<$> to Jamestown, Virginia in 1610.

Now Mr. Duffy, which bought the ship in 1995, is selling it, along with his tour boat, Argo II — which does float!

He said: “This is an opportunity to own a small, privately-run tourist business and to be involved in the growing historical appreciation of Bermuda and the St. George’s World Heritage Site experience.

“Her location affords the highest possible exposure to all visitors to St. George’s and can work in conjunction with many other business ideas.”

In the past the wooden ship has hosted receptions, cocktail parties, musical events, art displays, historical re-enactments, and weddings.

Mr. Duffy feels there are many small businesses in Bermuda who could gain valuable exposure to a very large tourist market via a landmark location like Deliverance.

When asked about her history he explained she was originally constructed by a local organisation, The Bermuda Junior Service League in the 1960s. She was used as a fund-raising tool with significant cultural and historic value to the community.

“I purchased the ship from them in 1995 at the same time my tour boat company was established. The two enterprises provided a perfect match.

“Tour passengers visited the ship and ship visitors took tours.”

He has also used the ship as base for selling walking tours of the old town. He feels the lists of options are really endless and depends on the focus of the individual.

Asked if it was hard to keep the ship in good shape he said it helps to have some basic carpentry skills as she is after all made entirely of wood with the exception of the foundation which is made of concrete.

“It is a lot like owning a classic car — there is always something that needs doing. Working on the ship is actually one of the things the visitors are most fascinated with and they love to watch and chat.”

He joked: “If you are a man and the best excuse for owning it is that you will never have to justify buying a power tool again in your life!”

Mr. Duffy and his wife have decided it is time for the phase of their lives where they will focus more on their children’s futures.

“We are looking for a change of pace where we can have more quality time together as a family. We are in the process of relocating to southwest France.”

When asked the price Mr. Duffy explained he is happy to discuss the price with anyone interested in taking over. He is keen to see the ship become a successful venture for not only the buyer but also for St. George’s as a destination. It can be sold separately from the tour boat business or as a package, he said.

He is also willing to work with someone to help that person develop a good business model.

“Deliverance is an integral part of the Old Town and I think everyone wants to see her remain a part of the tourist trail.

“It is quite possible that a new owner with new ideas could greatly enhance her traditional role as an attraction.”

Anyone interested in becoming the new owner of “Deliverance”, should call Mr. Duffy at 335-1382.