Winthrop man builds wheelchair-accessible ship

WINTHROP, Mass. -- One man’s vision and dedication is helping disabled children realize their dreams of spending a day at sea.

Captain George McKay of Maine built a pirate ship by hand with his sons.

Mckay built the ship, named Raw Faith, specifically to accommodate people in wheelchairs.

“I have no construction background, I have no carpentry,” said McKay. “I haven't built as much as a doghouse prior to building this ship. I have a lot of Coast Guard inspectors come on and say it's one of the best built wooden vessels they've ever been on.”

His inspiration? His daughter, Elizabeth. She was born with Marfan syndrome and survived several life-threatening complications throughout her life.

“We were told she wouldn't live to be two, we were told she wouldn't live to be 3 or 4 and every year. We were told she wouldn't live,” McKay said.

His faith in Elizabeth brought McKay to realize his dream: a ship for children with disabilities to sail. Elizabeth, now in her 20's, does just that.

“We take children in wheelchairs and their families out for free sailing adventures,” said McKay.

Raw Faith is a work in progress. The captain plans to install a wheelchair lift, and other items.

While kids enjoy the free tours on board the pirate ship, adults marvel at McKay’s dream.

“I'm listening to his story and I'm saying, 'Everyone should know about him,'” said Samantha Jane.

On Saturday, a Captain Jack Sparrow lookalike will be on board Raw Faith.

After her Winthrop visit, McKay plans on sailing her to Brazil.

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