S/V Shekina – Walking on Water

Shekina’s vision is to follow the biblical example of the Good Samaritan, which calls upon us to help our neighbor.
In practical terms, we achieve this by offering young men and boys from vulnerable backgrounds an onboard experience of fellowship, mentorship, and education within a maritime setting.
In doing so, we aim to equip them to build a future together—one grounded in hope, faith, and responsibility.
Together, we set sail for a better tomorrow!

Shekina was built at GVA in Gothenburg during the winter of 1987–88. At that time, she was named Elida IV. She featured a robust design clearly influenced by Elida II and III, yet incorporated modern standards for safety and equipment.
The vessel was designed and engineered by Fartygskonstruktioner AB in Uddevalla, in collaboration with the Elida crew, and was completed in May 1988.
She was classified as an ocean-going training vessel, holding a passenger certificate for extended coastal voyages.
Her original rig was a Bermuda barquentine (or topsail schooner) configuration, but she was soon re-rigged as a ketch with significantly taller masts.
Upon the completion of Elida V, Elida IV was sold to “Youth With A Mission” (YWAM England) and used for their missionary work in the Mediterranean under the name *Next Wave*.
The Shekina Association subsequently had the opportunity to purchase the vessel and is now its new owner. Plans are in place to use the boat as a place where young people from challenging backgrounds can get a second chance to start over and find a better path in life.
Our goal is for Shekina to be based at Båtfjorden harbor in Bua, north of Varberg.
Refurbishment and repair work is currently well underway.
Any practical assistance with the work, as well as financial donations, would be greatly appreciated.
Together, we make a difference for our young people!