Lynx To Join Other Tall Ships From Around The World To Celebrate United States' 250th

The tall ship Lynx will be participating in Sail250, a series of events for tall ships and military vessels taking place across the northeastern United States during June and July to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The Lynx, a mainstay in Nantucket harbor, is a replica of a real privateer vessel built in 1812. It will join other tall ships from around the world at Sail250.

“Being invited to Sail250 is an extraordinary opportunity for the Lynx and for the students we serve,” said Carlisle Jensen, the executive director of Nantucket’s Egan Maritime Institute. “Sailing alongside an international fleet during this historic commemoration allows young mariners to experience history not just as a lesson, but as something they are actively part of.”

As a result, the Lynx will be arriving in Nantucket harbor later this year than it usually does. The ship won’t sail into the island until mid-July, after its stint with Sail250 is complete.

Because of this, Egan Maritime won’t be able to offer the educational sailing exercises aboard the Lynx that it usually does in 2026. But the institute has made alternative plans.

“We know how meaningful these sails are for students and educators alike,” Jensen said. “While we’re disappointed we can’t offer them in their usual form, we’re committed to creating alternative experiences that are just as engaging, hands-on, and aligned with classroom learning.”

Egan Maritime is sponsoring student mariners to sail on the Lynx as part of the celebrations. According to a press release from Egan Maritime, the students will have the chance to meet crews from around the world, tour a number of ships, and participate in nationally broadcast sailing parades.

“For students who are ready for a deeper immersion, these Sail250 voyages have so much to offer educationally,” Egan Maritime educator Sonia Scherr said. “They combine seamanship, teamwork, and global perspective in a way few experiences can.”

One trip, from the port of Baltimore, is open to high school students, while another, from Boston, is open to middle schoolers. Applications are available here.

Egan Maritime will offer “capstone experiences” that it says are “designed to meet educational goals and provide meaningful learning beyond the classroom.”

Egan Maritime also intends to work with other Nantucket organizations to provide daytime sailing opportunities for Nantucket youth in August.