Texas A&M Maritime Academy cadets, along with cadets from Maine Maritime Academy, will have a front row seat to history as they drop anchor aboard the Training Ship State of Maine north of Ellis Island on July 3 ahead of the Sail250 event commemorating America’s 250th birthday.
The cadets are in the final days of Summer Sea Term, where they gain hands-on experience in vessel operations in various maritime environments. The current Summer Sea Term began on May 23 in Galveston and will conclude on July 16 in Castine, Maine.
“As our cadets complete the inaugural Summer Sea Term aboard State of Maine, they will have the rare privilege of witnessing one of the largest maritime celebrations in our nation’s history from the heart of New York Harbor. Experiences like Sail250 reinforce the importance of our maritime heritage while inspiring the next generation of leaders who will serve America’s maritime industry,” said Craig Johnson, president of Maine Maritime Academy.
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From their anchorage off Jersey City, cadets from the two maritime academies will have the opportunity to see 60 United States and international naval ships and over 30 tall ships within view of the Statue of Liberty. Sail250 represents the largest gathering of naval and tall ships since the United States Bicentennial in 1976.
“Excitement is building onboard as we get closer to this amazing event,” said Capt. Allan F. Post, assistant vice president and deputy superintendent at Texas A&M Maritime Academy. “Standing on the deck of a brand-new ship, representing the future of the American Merchant Marine while looking out at a horizon filled with the world’s tall ships, is truly inspiring. Sailing past the Statue of Liberty on the Fourth of July for Sail250 isn’t just a training cruise — it’s a front-row seat to history, honoring 250 years of a maritime nation while stepping boldly into our own future.”
