Experience the Tall Ship of Delaware

Step aboard Kalmar Nyckel for an unforgettable adventure on the water. This season, enjoy narrated river cruises and sailing experiences departing from Wilmington, day sails from Historic New Castle, and special sailing excursions in Greenport, NY, and New London, CT.

From relaxing cruises to hands-on voyages where guests can help raise the sails, every trip offers a unique way to experience maritime history. Kalmar Nyckel will also appear at Sail 250 celebrations throughout the summer, bringing Delaware's seafaring heritage to audiences along the East Coast.

Book your cruise or sail 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.

Tall Ship Festival Tours at SAIL 250 Virginia

Experience Kalmar Nyckel as she joins Sail 250 Virginia, a series of maritime celebrations commemorating America's 250th anniversary. Visitors can tour the Tall Ship of Delaware, meet the crew, and learn about the vessel's unique role in American history.

Tour schedules vary by location. Check with festival organizers for details.

Alexandria, VA, June 12-14; Norfolk, VA, Parade of Sail, June 19; and SailFest Cape Charles, June 20-21

Second Saturday: What's in a Flag?

Join us for Second Saturday on July 11 from 1 – 4 pm at Fort Christina Park for What's In a Flag? Explore the history and symbolism behind the Swedish, Finnish, American, and Delaware flags, then create your own unique flag to take home.



This free, family-friendly activity is fun for all ages and a great way to discover the stories that connect Delaware to its past.

Independence Day DE250 Riverfront FREE Ship Tours

Celebrate Independence Day aboard the Tall Ship of Delaware! Join us at Dravo Plaza on the Riverfront Wilmington for free deck tours of the Kalmar Nyckel on Saturday, July 4, from 2 – 7 pm.

Step aboard a full-scale replica of the 17th-century ship that brought Swedish settlers to the Delaware Valley in 1638. Meet our volunteer crew, explore the vessel, and discover what life was like for sailors more than 350 years ago.

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

Voyage back in time with our 3D-animated short film and exhibit with an exciting comparison of the original Kalmar Nyckel and our modern-day replica.

Fort Christina Park

Visit the historic site adjacent to our maritime center where Kalmar Nyckel landed in 1638. Open on Saturdays in October. Free tours & Jr. Ranger badges!

Donate

Every donation keeps the Kalmar Nyckel sailing, provides educational opportunities for children, and preserves maritime history in the heart of Wilmington and the across the Eastern Seaboard.

Education Volunteers

Share the joy of hands-on learning while demonstrating the story of Kalmar Nyckel and life in early America with school children and campers throughout the region. Volunteers are trained and needed all year long.

Winter Crew Training 2026

Discover the joy of sailing a 17th century ship! No experience is needed. Winter Crew Training class runs from January 17 - April 11 on most Saturday mornings

Learn new skills & meet new friends.