Experience the Tall Ship of Delaware

Step aboard Kalmar Nyckel for an unforgettable adventure on the water. This August, experience hands-on sailing adventures departing from Historic New Castle, Delaware, and New London, Connecticut. Help raise the sails, meet our captain and volunteer crew, learn the ship's fascinating history, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the water.

Then, this October, enjoy one of our narrated Christina River Cruises from our home port. These popular 90-minute cruises offer a unique perspective on the city's waterfront while sharing stories of Delaware's maritime heritage.

Whether you choose an exhilarating day sail or a relaxing river cruise, every voyage aboard Kalmar Nyckel is a memorable experience unlike any other.

Book your sail or river cruise today!

Discover the Maritime History at the Copeland Maritime Center

The Copeland Maritime Center is your gateway to Delaware’s rich maritime heritage. Explore engaging exhibits, discover hands-on history, and climb aboard a three-quarter-scale reproduction of  Kalmar Nyckel. Enjoy free family activities and special programs that bring the stories of sailors, settlers, and life along the Delaware River to life.



From educational programs and seasonal festivals to our popular Second Saturdays events, there’s always something new to discover. Visit with your family, bring a school group for a field trip, or host a memorable gathering in our unique riverfront venue overlooking the Christina River.

The Tall Ship Returns to Historic New Castle, DE

Sunday, August 2 – Saturday August 8

For one week only, experience the unforgettable adventure of sailing aboard Kalmar Nyckel, Delaware's Tall Ship.



Step aboard this full-scale replica of the 1638 ship that established the first permanent European settlement in the Delaware Valley and discover the beauty of the Delaware River from the deck of an authentic 17th-century sailing vessel.

Help raise the sails, watch the crew maneuver the ship using the traditional whipstaff, or simply relax and take in spectacular views from the deck. A sail aboard  Kalmar Nyckel is an experience unlike any other!

Second Saturday: Lions, Sea Serpents & Mermaids, Oh My!

FREE • Saturday, August 8  •  1 – 4 pm

Join us for an afternoon of imagination and adventure at Fort Christina Park! Discover the fascinating folklore of sailors and the mythical creatures that once filled the seas—and the imaginations—of mariners around the world.

Learn about the lions, sea serpents, mermaids, and other legendary figures that adorned sailing ships and appeared in centuries-old tales.

Then, unleash your creativity by designing and crafting your own fierce sea serpent to take home!

An Unforgettable Evening on the Waterfront

Sunday, September 27, 2026 • 5:30 pm

Celebrate an unforgettable evening as the sun sets over the Christina River. Begin with an exclusive deck tour aboard Delaware's only Tall Ship, followed by a traditional sunset salute by our captains and volunteer crew. Then enjoy cocktails, an elegant waterfront dinner under the tents, live music, and exciting live and silent auctions.

The King Neptune Gala is our premier fundraising event. Every ticket helps preserve Kalmar Nyckel and provides thousands of children each year with unforgettable hands-on experiences that bring history, science, and maritime heritage to life.

Reserve your place today for one of Delaware's premier waterfront events!

Five Ways To Freedom

Launch an Underground Railroad History of Delaware unit with this free in-classroom program that defines the work of five Underground Railroad leaders with five routes through Delaware and a maritime aspect to five modes of travel.

Tall Ship Time Machine

Travel back nearly 400 years with our immersive 3D-animated film and interactive exhibit.

Compare the original 1625 Kalmar Nyckel with today's full-scale replica and discover the ship that brought the first permanent European settlers to the Delaware Valley.

Fort Christina Park

Explore the birthplace of Delaware at the historic site where Swedish settlers came ashore in 1638 and established the colony of New Sweden.

Stroll the scenic riverfront, see the iconic Swedish Tercentenary Monument, and join us for free guided tours. During your visit, you can also earn your park Junior Ranger badge!

Your Gift Makes an Impact!

Your generosity helps keep Kalmar Nyckel sailing for future generations. Every gift supports the preservation and operation of Delaware's Tall Ship, provides hands-on educational experiences that inspire thousands of children each year, and ensures our maritime history continues to come alive through sails, exhibits, and community programs throughout the Delaware Valley and along the Eastern Seaboard.

Education Volunteers

Inspire the next generation through hands-on learning! Share the story of Kalmar Nyckel, early America, and maritime history with school children, families, and campers.

No teaching experience is required. We provide the training, and volunteers are welcome and needed year-round.

Winter Crew Training 2027

Saturdays, January 17 – April 11

Become part of the crew aboard Delaware's Tall Ship! No sailing experience is required, just a sense of adventure. Our Winter Crew Training program meets on most Saturday mornings and teaches the skills needed to sail Kalmar Nyckel while building lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.