Fleet cruise - Manta off Arrowpoint from Harmony
Our Legacy

Ship 16 History

One of the oldest continuously registered Sea Scout ships in the United States, serving youth since 1930.

Our Mission

Sea Scout Ship 16 develops the scouting principles of citizenship, leadership, and character in young men and women ages 14-20 through a nautical atmosphere of adventure and seamanship.

Founded in 1930 by members of the Camp Emerald Bay staff, our ship has maintained a proud tradition of excellence. Many of our members have gone on to distinguish themselves in the military, government, and maritime industries.

Ages 14-20

Co-ed Program

Weekly Meetings

Every Week

Fleet

Multiple Vessels

Location

Marina del Rey

Sailing adventure

95

Years of Excellence

N
Our Journey

A Legacy of Adventure

1930

Ship 16 Founded

Twenty members of Camp Emerald Bay staff form Sea Scout Ship 16, naming it "Islander".

Click to view image →

1946

The Manta Era Begins

Ship 16 acquires a 63' A.V.R. from the Navy, beginning decades of service to Camp Emerald Bay.

Click to view image →

1976

A New Chapter

After Al Miller passes and the Manta is sold, Dave Wells and Gary Seidner keep the ship registered.

Click to view image →

1982

Ship 16 Reformed

Dave Wells reforms Ship 16 from the leadership corps of Troop 400, beginning a new era.

Click to view image →

1991

The Emerald Star

John Meyers provides the Bagarre, later renamed Emerald Star, as the ship's flagship.

2003

Manta Returns Home

After a $800,000 restoration, the original Manta returns to Ship 16, reconnecting with our heritage.

Click to view image →

2023

Black Pearl Launches

Ship 16 expands with a new vessel and program, continuing nearly a century of service.

Our Vessels

The Islander Fleet

Our fleet gives the crew real opportunities to develop maritime skills and seamanship on California's beautiful waters.

The Manta

The Manta

Our historic 63' flagship, originally acquired in 1946 and returned to us in 2003 after an extensive restoration.

Black Pearl

Black Pearl

Our newest addition, expanding the fleet and program capabilities since 2023.

Join Us for a Meeting

We welcome visitors to observe our weekly meetings. Come see what Islander Sea Scouts is all about and meet our crew!

Weekly Meetings

Check events for schedule

13650 Mindanao Way

Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Islander Sea Scouts Logo

Islander Sea Scouts

Ship 16 • Est. 1930

Developing citizenship, leadership, and character in young men and women ages 14-20 through nautical adventure in Marina del Rey, California.

Follow us on Facebook

Contact

Islander@ship16.org
13650 Mindanao Way
Marina del Rey, CA 90292

© 2026 Sea Scout Ship 16 - The Islander. All rights reserved.

Tax ID# 95-3887037 • 501(c)(3) Nonprofit

Admin Login