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Running Free March 2026
From the Bridge
Spring is finally in the air — and I couldn't be happier about it.
Over the past few weeks, my social media feeds have come alive with exactly the kind of content that makes this community so special: ships shaking off the winter, lines being coiled, sails being unfurled, and crew members reuniting on familiar decks. It's genuinely one of my favorite times of year, and seeing those posts never gets old.
Which brings me to a small but important ask: as you get deeper into your season, please keep sending us your photos, your stories, your updates, and your announcements. Share what you're up to — whether it's a training voyage, a port visit, a new crew member's first sail, or just a stunning shot of your vessel underway. Sharing news keeps us connected as a community, and it's also a chance for you to show off the incredible work you're doing. We want to hear from you, and we want to help amplify your story.
This spring at Tall Ships America, we've been focused on building out programs and resources that create real value — for organizations and for individuals. Here's a quick look at what's happening:
Shipmate Membership Program. We're launching a new initiative that gives member vessels the ability to give a 6 month Tall Ships America membership to anyone who has completed a full-day or overnight experience on a Tall Ships America member vessel, or with a Tall Ships America member program. The goal is simple: by keeping your sailors connected to the broader tall ships community, we can help sustain their enthusiasm and deepen their engagement with the work you're doing. Learn more.
Women Offshore Foundation Roundtables. If you missed it, we've partnered with the Women Offshore Foundation to host monthly digital roundtables. These gatherings are designed for women+ mariners and water-connected professionals who want to engage in honest, meaningful conversation about the realities of working on or around the water — no notes, no agenda, just authentic connection. Participants explore shared experiences, learn about resources that support women+ throughout their maritime careers, and build relationships that last. We're proud of this partnership and encourage you to spread the word. Learn more.
Role-Based Virtual Musters. We're also working with a dedicated group of volunteers to develop role-based discussion series — spaces where people in similar positions across the fleet can connect, compare notes, and support one another. We're close to finalizing our Community Muster lineup for the fall as well, and we can't wait to share those details.
SailBoston 250. We're deep into planning for SailBoston's celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary, where Tall Ships America is proud to serve as an educational partner. We're developing an interactive educational pavilion that will connect young visitors with some of our partners through hands-on activities. Much more to come — and if your ship is attending, you'll be hearing from us directly. Learn more.
Tall Ships Academy. We're close — finally — to launching the Tall Ships Academy, a dedicated hub for resources and educational opportunities for our community. It's been in development for a while, and intentionally so: we wanted to get it right. We think you're going to love it.
I'd be remiss if I didn't take a moment to acknowledge how much we appreciate the ships, crews, individuals, and sponsors who make all of this possible. Your membership, your engagement, and your generosity are what allow TSA to show up for this community — and we don't take that for granted. Like any nonprofit, we're always working to grow and do more. And the more support we receive, the more we can offer to our community. Which is why we’re kicked on two key initiative that I wanted to share:
1,000 for $10 — We're seeking 1,000 people to each give $10 per month. That's it. Small, sustained support from a large community adds up to something significant. Learn more.
The Nathaniel Bowditch Leadership Society — Our flagship major giving program has been relaunched with new tiers and new benefits. If you're in a position to make a more substantial commitment, we'd be honored to have you join. If you’ve given at this level in the last six-months, look for your membership card in the mail! Learn more.
If you're in a position to give — at any level — we're grateful. And regardless, we look forward to continuing to expand what we offer to this community we love. Happy Spring, everyone. See you on the water!
Applications Now Open: U.S. Youth Representative to the Sail Training International (STI) Youth Council
With the departure of the current standing representative, Tall Ships America seeks a motivated young mariner to serve as the Tall Ships America Youth Representative to the STI Youth Council. This role serves as the sole U.S. youth voice, representing Tall Ships America and American sail training within an international forum. The representative participates in international discussions, contributes to collaborative youth initiatives, and helps ensure that the perspectives of American youth sailors are meaningfully represented in global sail training conversations. This is an unpaid position
To be eligible:
You must be a current Tall Ships America member. You must be 18 - 27 years old. You must commit to a three year term. Must be eligible for international travel (have or be willing to get a passport)
The Tall Ships America Leadership Circle represents the premier membership tier within Tall Ships America, recognizing members as vital partners in advancing character development through sail training.
We are pleased to highlight Classic Harbor Line this month. We are pleased to highlight Classic Harbor Line this month. Classic Harbor Line and Scarano Boat Building are sister companies, both based in Albany, NY — sharing not just a home port, but a philosophy of craftsmanship that has shaped the Classic Harbor Line fleet of 14 classic yachts. The video above offers an insider look at Scarano Boat Building, which has been designing and building vessels for over 35 years. From new construction and custom design to repair, restoration, and canvas work, Scarano does it all — including building most of the boats that make up the Classic Harbor Line fleet.
At Skipper’s Remedy®, every roast is ethically and sustainably sourced ...crafted for sailors, by sailors. Fuel your next voyage with coffee that honors the sea and the spirit of adventure.
Tall Ships America Members receive 11% off select specialty coffees.
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