Running Free - Member News
August 2025

Summertime Sailor Days at San Diego Maritime Museum

📷San Diego Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum of San Diego brings back its popular Summertime Sailor Days for a limited time—every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., July 1 through August 27, 2025. The program is included with general admission.

This seasonal experience invites families and maritime enthusiasts to step into the shoes of a traditional sailor aboard the historic Star of India. Activities include furling sail, ropemaking, knot-tying, and hauling lines—plus a family scavenger hunt where kids can earn a prize from the ship’s treasure chest.

Guests can explore the Museum’s world-class fleet and exhibitions while enjoying these interactive programs designed to educate and entertain. For those looking to get out on the water, narrated 45-minute Historic Bay Tours aboard the 1914 Pilot are available on a first-come, first-serve basis for just $10 with general admission.

New Maritime Museum of San Diego Art Exhibit

Maritime Museum of San Diego is opening a new satellite exhibit space as part of an ongoing effort by the Maritime Museum of San Diego to make its collections accessible and available to a broader public.

"Memories of the Greatest Generation" features multiple limited-edition photos by famed World War II-era photographer Edward Steichen and his collegues on display at the Arts District Liberty Station. Entry is free to the public. 

Steichen and his team of photographers were commissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1942 to document the war in the Pacific and show the American people the efforts being made by the US Navy – sailors and marines – in that theater. 

2025 Excellence in Education Award presented by the National Park Service

📸Left to right: Johnny Carawan, NPS; Rebecca Bertrand and Jenny Sullivan, Newport Historical Society. Courtesy of National Park Service. 

The Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail and the Newport Historical Society have been selected as the National Park Service’s 2025 Excellence in Education Award recipients for their collaborative Women on the Water program.

Originally piloted by the Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route NHT and Tall Ships America, Women on the Water was fully implemented by the Newport Historical Society, who greatly expanded the program’s educational offerings.

This innovative program engages young women in grades 6–12 in STEM education, maritime history, and career exploration, helping them develop skills, confidence, and a deeper connection to our nation’s heritage. With over 280 participants so far, Women on the Water is having a tremendous impact on exposing young women to tall ships and maritime history & heritage. Congratulations!

Perry Corps is Back!

An afternoon program for high schoolers returns aboard tall ship Oliver Hazard Perry. This program allows the chance to learn about the maritime industry and marine trades. Plot a course for your future, climb to new heights, energize your career opportunities while learning about working in the rigging, maintenance of engineering systems, ship operations and more!

From their education director, Melissa, "It’s a way to find what interests you and learn real life skills. No sailing or prior experience is necessary. The Perry Corps is not a sailing program. There is not enough time in the after school format to take our vessel out. However, committed participants are first in line to be invited on sails and may even be asked to serve as crew. You will learn how the boat functions from the engine room to the sails so that you will be prepared when sailing opportunities arise."

Sail Training International Invites Vessels to Join Blue Flag Scheme Pilot Program

The Blue Flag is a globally recognized symbol of excellence in environmental and sustainable practices. Building on it's success across beaches, marinas, and tourism boats, we are thrilled to announce the launch of a pilot phase for the Blue Flag Sail Training Vessel Certification Scheme - a pioneering initiative to promote sustainability and good governance within the world of sail training and tall ships. We are inviting Sail Training Vessels and Tall Ships to participate in this exciting test phase during the 2025 sailing season. 

Spotlight on: MMSEAS

Are you a current  Crew Member going for your license?  MMSEAS can help! The MM-SEAS Pro software provides mariners with an organized and efficient platform for managing all aspects of their license application and renewal process. From tracking sea service to generating required documentation, MM-SEAS helps eliminate the headaches associated with paper files and confusing regulatory hurdles.

This contribution is aimed at streamlining the often complex process of obtaining and maintaining US Coast Guard licenses, a critical step for anyone pursuing a career on the water. This generous donation from MM-SEAS underscores their commitment to supporting the maritime community and investing in the future of seafaring.

Discounts on professional services, sailing gear, coffee, and so much more. Check out all our partner programs through the link below. 

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