Retired corporate lawyer spends life aboard 15th century ship

MARINETTE -- Fred Hulser used to be a corporate lawyer -- before he started sailing. In April 2012, Hulser hit the high seas aboard a 15th century ship, and hasn't looked back.

Hulser says he went to see the Pinta and the Nina near his current home of The Woodlands, Texas, and found out there was a crew member opening.

"One thing led to another and I packed my bags that night and left the next morning," Hulser said.

Hulser says much of his days are spent doing menial tasks required to keep the boat in ship shape, along with learning about the art of sailing a replica ship from the 15th century.

Hulser says there's a purpose to spending time aboard the Pinta -- he's living and learning about the history of the world.

"I spent my day yesterday in the library across the Lake, reading a couple of books I've been looking for for four months on the subject. I enjoy that part of it and I enjoy telling people about it," Hulser said.

Stephen Sanger is the Pinta's first mate. Sanger says although both ships are replicas of what Columbus likely used to cross the ocean, they do have modern amenities, like electronics and diesel engines. All the blocks and tackle, miles of rope between the two ships, masts and sails are all functioning and helping to educate people across the U.S. for about 10 months a year.

"People can actually get a real-life glimpse of what life was really like back 500 years ago and how different it was and how lucky we are today," Sanger said.

Hulser says there is a lot to be learned from working and living aboard a floating museum, however, the most fun is the travel.

The Pinta and the Nina are docked at "Nest Egg Marine." They are open to the public Thursday, July 19th through Monday, July 23rd.

After Marinette, the ships will sail to Waukegan, Illinois and eventually through Illinois down the Mississippi River.