Kalmar Nyckel returns to Wilmington

Kalmar Nyckel will continue the 2016 sailing season as she returns to Dravo Plaza on the Wilmington Riverfront.

The historic tall ship will take passengers on one and a half river cruises and pirate sails on Wilmington’s Christina River from Saturday, June 25 through Sunday, July 10. She will then sail north to Provincetown, MA.

Kalmar Nyckel is a faithful re-creation of the Dutch-built armed merchant ship that brought Swedish settlers to North America in the 1600s. Measuring 141 feet long with a 25 foot beam, she will travel roughly 3,000 nautical miles this season. Part of that journey includes tours of the Christina River, offering guests unique views of the Wilmington Riverfront and Delaware Watershed.

Passengers of the river cruises are afforded the option to work alongside the crew, hauling lines and raising sails, as well as simply enjoy the views. Spirited “Pirate Sails” are also available, where ship is transformed into a pirate vessel, complete with costumes, scavenger hunts and pirate tales.

Additionally, Memorial Day marked the re-opening of Fort Christina to the public through Labor Day weekend. Located on the riverfront, this National Historic Landmark memorializes the landing of the Swedes in 1638 and the establishment of New Sweden. The park is open to the public every Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Saturdays will feature guided tours in conjunction with the Kalmar Nyckel’s sails.

For tickets and more information about specific times and events, visit www.kalmarnyckel.org or contact the Kalmar Nyckel Foundation office at (302) 429-7447. Online tickets can be purchased by visiting www.kalmarnyckel.org/BookASail.asp. Ticket prices for Christina River sails start at $20 for children and $35 for adults.