The historic tall ship Elissa departed Galveston for a month-long voyage to New York City as part of Sail250, celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
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The historic 1877 tall ship Elissa set sail Monday from the Port of Galveston, beginning a rare cross-country voyage to New York City as part of an international maritime celebration.
The ship’s departure marks its participation in Sail250, a global gathering of tall ships and military vessels commemorating the United States’ 250th anniversary. Crew members raised sails and departed Galveston after months of preparation, with family members and supporters gathered to see them off.
Owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation, Elissa is a square-rigged iron barque that serves as a floating museum when docked. Officials say it is one of only two ships of its kind and age still actively sailing worldwide and is expected to be the oldest vessel participating in Sail250.
Captain Andrew Ellers said the ship represents a rare piece of living maritime history.
“Elissa is a genuine vessel,” Ellers said, noting that unlike many replica vessels, much of the ship’s original structure—including its iron hull—remains intact.
Despite its age, the vessel has undergone extensive upgrades to remain seaworthy. Crews recently installed a new engine and updated generating systems to prepare for the journey.
The voyage will take several months, with planned stops in cities along the East Coast, including ports in Florida, Georgia, and Boston, before arriving in New York for Fourth of July events. The ship is expected to return to Galveston in late August.
“We are representing Texas and Galveston and the maritime history of the Gulf,” Ellers said.
According to Will Wright, creative director for the Galveston Historical Foundation, about 14 core crew members will remain aboard throughout the trip, supported by rotating volunteers. At any given time, approximately 40 people will be on board.
Wright called the departure “a milestone moment” for the vessel, which rarely undertakes voyages of this scale.
The foundation said members of the public may have opportunities to purchase tickets to sail aboard Elissa during select port stops.
The ship’s departure had been delayed from May to allow for final inspections and crew readiness. Officials said Monday’s departure was timed based on favorable weather conditions.
