I was on a street that parallels the Christina River in Wilmington, Delaware when I saw 3 large wooden masts cruising between the breaks in the skyline. Of course, it was the Kalmar Nyckel, a full size replica of the ship that brought the Swedes to the New World in 1638. The original ship made 4 voyages to what is now the State of Delaware. It is an impressive and colorful ship. When not on goodwill tours, it is home ported in Wilmington, Delaware and has frequent scheduled sailings open to the public. Many of the sailings are Pirate Cruises. So if you are near Wilmington, drop by for a cruise into history. See link below for info, then click on Ships Schedule for sailing times.
http://www.kalmarnyckel.org/ (http://www.kalmarnyckel.org/)
I have drooled over this beauty many a times. Just saw it back at Blackbeard.
I think it be time for a voyage to the coast of the new world.
I used to donate to the foundation back when they were building her. Pretty much lost track after I moved to TX. However, I did see her in NY some years ago, and she is gorgeous. I highly recommend a visit to the Christina shipyard - it was a neat place way back when Mom and I stopped there. Wish I had time when I come out for RenDezvous!
The Kalmar Nyckel set sail from Wilmington, Delaware today to make an appearance at The Blackbeard Pirate Festival July 9th-11th in Hampton, Virginia. From there she voyages to Yorktown, Virginia for the weekend of July 15th-18th. She returns to Lewes, Delaware July 25th. If you have not seen this marvelous ship, don't miss an opportunity to see an early 17th century vessel in all her glory.
http://www.blackbeardpiratefestival.com/ (http://www.blackbeardpiratefestival.com/)