Visit Copeland Maritime Center
Whether you're exploring maritime history, bringing the family for hands-on fun, or introducing little ones to the wonders of the sea, there's always something to discover at Copeland Maritime Center. Step back in time with our newest exhibit, Maiden Voyage of the KEY: Amsterdam, 1627, featuring a newly commissioned oil painting, historic maps, and the fascinating story of the ship that would become Kalmar Nyckel.
Join us on Second Saturdays for free, hands-on history activities designed for visitors of all ages or bring your youngest explorers to Toddler Tuesdays, where stories, songs, crafts, and maritime-themed adventures inspire curiosity through play. Mark your calendar for our Annual Scout Day on Saturday, September 12, with activities throughout the Center and neighboring Fort Christina State Park.
Annual Scout Day 2026
FREE • Saturday, September 12 • Two Sessions
of hands-on, sea-themed activity stations across the Copeland Maritime Center campus.
New Exhibit: Maiden Voyage of the KEY
Maiden Voyage of the KEY, Amsterdam, 1627 features a newly commissioned oil painting by award-winning marine artist Patrick O’Brien. Discover the original Kalmar Nyckel’s first ceremonial sail in Amsterdam. New permanent exhibit.
Save the Date!
Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 5:30 pm
Our 19th-Annual King Neptune Gala will return on Sunday, September 27. Join us for a festive dockside evening under our tents with sunset cocktails on our beautiful ship, live music, great food, good friends, live auctions, and special guests.
Please support our biggest fundraising event of the year. Tickets will go on sale soon!
Wilmington River Cruises Return!
Adventure awaits! Kalmar Nyckel returns to Delaware this October for scenic Christina River Cruises on Saturdays from October 3–24.
Step aboard Delaware's Tall Ship and experience the sights, sounds, and traditions of 17th-century sailing. Meet the crew, learn about the ship's fascinating history, help raise a sail, or simply relax and enjoy the beauty of the Christina River.
Second Saturdays: 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.
Toddler Tuesdays
Set Sail on a Morning of Discovery!
Toddler Tuesdays are designed especially for curious little learners ages 18 months to 5 years, their siblings, and their caregivers. Each one-hour program is led by an educator with early childhood experience and encourages creativity, exploration, and learning through play in a welcoming maritime setting.
Halloween Ghost Ship Saturday, October 17
Get ready for an afternoon of spooky not scarey fun: indoor Ghost Ship tours, pumpkin painting, Kalmar Nyckel ship tours, ghost stories, costume parade, crafts, food trucks, and more.