Keeping History Afloat: Mark Saia on the Schooner Suva

Today on Local Whidbey with Magsy, we’re climbing aboard one of Coupeville’s most beloved maritime treasures — the Schooner Suva. My guest is Mark Saia, who not only has helped keep Suva’s sails billowing but also keeps her stories alive for the community.

Suva herself is a piece of living history. Built in 1925 and designed by the renowned naval architect Ted Geary, she has sailed Puget Sound for a century. Today, she’s the pride of the Coupeville Maritime Heritage Foundation, offering both locals and visitors a chance to experience Whidbey’s seafaring past firsthand. Mark has been at the center of that mission, welcoming people aboard, sharing Suva’s remarkable journey, and ensuring her legacy continues.

But Mark’s story doesn’t end on the water. As the longtime owner of Island Quality Construction, he’s built a reputation for craftsmanship and reliability that echoes the same care he has brought to Suva. His dual role as both builder and sailor gives him a unique perspective on what it means to preserve heritage — whether through wood, water, or community.

Mark is also a long-time Whidbey resident, deeply woven into the island’s fabric. He’s seen it change, grow, and adapt, and through both his business and his maritime work, he’s contributed to the story of Whidbey Island itself.

And here’s something you may not know — Mark is also a musician. He’s a member of the maritime singers, the Shifty Sailors, a beloved group that carries forward the traditions of sea shanties and maritime music. Beyond that, he writes and records his own music, blending storytelling with melody in a way that feels like a natural extension of his life at sea. The intro music today “Home to Suva” was written and sung by Mark. At the end of our interview, I have added a song that Mark wrote, that I just love. He is talented. I hope you enjoy ‘Old Rowboat’.

Today, we’ll talk about Suva’s history and adventures, Mark’s own life on the island, and the balance of honoring the past while building for the future.

Let’s get to it.

 

Follow Mark on FACEBOOK and book a ride on the SUVA at https://www.schoonersuva.org/.

Follow LOCAL WHIDBEY WITH MAGSY at @LocalWhidbeyPodcast ... Link: INSTAGRAM and on Facebook.

You may also get to know Magsy and subscribe for invites to her supper club, at https://withmagsy.com.