Where Adventure Awaits
Come aboard and discover the remarkable story behind The Tall Ship of Delaware, Kalmar Nyckel, and experience Delaware’s rich maritime history at the Copeland Maritime Center.
Sail & Visit
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.
The Tall Ship Returns to Greenport
For one week only, experience the unforgettable adventure of sailing aboard Kalmar Nyckel, Delaware's Tall Ship.
From July 20–26, 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 bay 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 of Greenport from the water. A sail aboard Kalmar Nyckel is an experience unlike any other.
2nd Saturday: Lions, Sea Serpents & Mermaids, Oh My!
FREE • Saturday, August 8 • 1 – 4 pm
Set sail 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!
Toddler Tuesdays: Plants!
Tuesday, July 28 • 10 – 11 am
Set sail on a morning of discovery with Toddler Tuesdays, a fun and engaging early childhood learning program designed especially for children ages 18 months to 5 years, each one-hour session introduces young learners to the wonders of the world around them through hands-on exploration, stories, music, crafts, movement, and play.
This week's program explores the fascinating world of plants! Children will discover how seeds germinate and grow, then plant their own in a small terra-cotta pot to take home and nurture. The sessions also includes stories, songs, a themed craft, and a snack.
Educational Programs
Walk The Decks. Learn The Ropes.
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.
Field Trips & Virtual Programs
Explore the
Kalmar Nyckel and hands-on history on our Copeland Maritime Center campus. Or bring the adventures of our Tall Ship to your classroom with our in-person and virtual field trips. Free to Delaware public & charter school students.
Unique Experiences
A Celebration On The Sea
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!
Private Parties: Ship & Shore
Plan a one-of-a-kind business or social event on a private sail, dockside party or Copeland Maritime Center rental. Land ho! Request a tour and dates today!
Volunteer & Support
Preserve A Legacy
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.