The renowned Tall Ship Elissa set sail from Galveston, Texas, on Monday morning, embarking on a significant voyage to New York Harbor. This journey marks a global celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The Elissa, constructed in 1877, stands as a National Historic Landmark and a well-loved symbol of Galveston’s port. As the official tall ship of Texas, it hasn’t undertaken a long journey since 1986. Following extensive refurbishments in 2014, this Texas treasure remains one of the oldest operational sailing vessels worldwide.
The Elissa is set to participate in the Sail4th celebration, commemorating America’s 250th birthday. The majestic ship will dock in New York from July 3 to 7, taking a leading role as it guides other Class A tall ships into New York Harbor on July 4 for the milestone event. Organizers describe Sail4th as featuring an unprecedented flotilla of historic ships gathered from around the world.
Before making its way back to Texas, the Elissa will join an impressive assembly of international tall and military ships in Boston Harbor. It will also make key stops in Savannah, Georgia, and Pensacola, Florida. The entire voyage is expected to span three months, organizers noted.
Organizers said that before Elissa heads back to Texas, the historic ship will join a fleet of international tall ships and military ships in a gathering in Boston Harbor. Tall Ship Elissa will also make strategic stops in Savannah, Ga., and Pensacola, Fla., organizers explained, adding that the voyage will take three months in total.
According to Sail4th organizers, the event continues a tradition of milestone maritime celebrations, including the 1976 Bicentennial and the Statue of Liberty Centennial in 1986.
SkyEye13 was over the Galveston port on Monday morning, capturing images of the Tall Ship Elissa as it began its voyage from the Gulf before travelling along the East Coast.
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