Fair Winds to the Elissa: A Historic Send-Off!

https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/local/galveston/2026/02/09/542892/galveston-elissa-tall-ship-new-york-sail-250/

Fair Winds to the Elissa: A Historic Send-Off!

Date: Mid-May 2026 (Specific dates TBD) Location: Galveston Ship Channel / Seawolf Park / Pier 21

Get your cameras ready! Galveston’s own "Iron Lady," the 1877 Tall Ship Elissa, is preparing for her most ambitious voyage in decades. She has been invited to lead the parade of sail for Sail250 in New York Harbor to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

Seeing this National Historic Landmark under sail is rare, but seeing her depart the Gulf for the Atlantic is a once-in-a-lifetime event for our local sailing community.

The Event

While the exact departure date is weather-dependent and still being finalized, she is expected to head out in mid-May. We want the TMCA community to be there to give her a proper Texas-sized farewell as she begins her long journey north.

How to Participate

There are several ways to witness this historic moment:

• Land-Based Vantage Points: * Pier 21: Watch the lines drop and see the crew begin the departure process right from the heart of the harbor.

  • Seawolf Park: This is arguably the best seat in the house. As she makes her way down the channel toward the jetties, she will pass right by the park, giving you a perfect profile view for photos.

• On-the-Water Viewing: * For those heading out by boat, we will have a designated viewing area. Please note: We will not be escorting the ship. To ensure the safety of the Elissa and her crew, all private vessels must maintain a respectful distance and stay clear of her path as she navigates the channel.

Volunteer Opportunity: Cruise Leader Needed!

I am looking for a Volunteer Cruise Leader to coordinate the boat-based viewing. Your role would be to help designate a meetup spot in the channel where the fleet can safely gather to watch her pass. Since this is a "pop-up" style event depending on the ship's final schedule, it’s a great, low-pressure way to help out the club.

Stay Tuned

Because this departure is highly weather-dependent, keep a close eye on the TMCA Weekly Update and our calendar as we get closer to May. Once the Elissa crew confirms their window, we will post the final meetup times and land-based gathering details.

Let’s show the crew of the Elissa that the Texas Mariners are behind them!

David Embry 2026 TMCA Cruise Captain