A dedicated volunteer group sails and lovingly maintains ELISSA year-round. Now is your chance if you have longed to hoist a sail on a historic tall ship. Please join us for an introductory meeting for potential crew members scheduled for 1 pm on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Galveston Historic Seaport on Galveston’s Pier 22, Harborside Drive between 21st and 22nd streets. Can’t attend orientation? Please sign up anyways! We’ll send information on how to join us for class 2.
PLANNING TO ATTEND? CLICK TO LET US KNOW!
Those who participate in the ELISSA Sail Training program have the opportunity to learn ancient skills and techniques for maintaining a square-rigged sailing ship. Volunteers may learn to climb ELISSA’s rigging to set and furl sails and maintain the intricate wood, wire, and rope machinery. These tasks require skill and bravery, as the ship’s main mast towers 99 feet above deck. After completing the classes, which take place on designated Saturdays, and contributing the required hours of work on the ship’s upkeep, participants are eligible to take ELISSA to sea.
2026/2027 SCHEDULE
October 3 – Class 2
October 17 – Class 3
October 31 – Class 4
November 14 – Class 5
November 21 – Class 6
December 5 – Class 7
December 19 – Class 8
January 9 – Class 9
January 23 – Class 10
February 13 – Class 12
February 27 – Class 13
March 6 – Class 14
March 20 – Class 15
March 27 – Class 16
April 10 – Class 17
April 24 – Class 18 / Graduation
May 1–22- Sailing
ABOUT THE 1877 ELISSA
ELISSA was originally a 19th-century British cargo ship that specialized in calling at smaller ports in the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, and twice loaded cotton at Galveston. This local connection and the authenticity of her iron hull led Galveston Historical Foundation (GHF) to purchase the vessel, then a cut-down motorship, and undertake her restoration. Today, ELISSA is one of only three pre-20th-century sailing vessels in the world restored to full sailing capacity. Designated by the National Park Service as a National Historic Landmark, ELISSA was named the “Official Tall Ship of Texas” in a resolution signed by Governor Rick Perry in June 2005.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When does it start?
Check-in begins at noon, and orientation starts at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 26. We will go until 5 p.m., and then we will have a social hour on the dock. Please stay, have libations, and meet the crew.
Where do I park?
There is no complimentary parking near the Galveston Historic Seaport. There are paid lots directly in front and paid street parking across the street on The Strand.
How much does it cost?
You’ll need to purchase some gear, such as rig knives, crew shirts, etc. The highest cost is your time.
What to bring?
Please bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and closed-toe shoes.
Where do we go?
You will come to the Galveston Historic Seaport located at Pier 22. Suite 8, in downtown Galveston. Orientation will be held outside on the dock and aboard ELISSA. We will spend the entire orientation outdoors. Please dress accordingly and be prepared for the heat!
What is the point?
The program teaches participants traditional seamanship and maintenance skills. Successful completion of the program is required to become part of ELISSA’s sailing crew on her spring annual sea trials! It’s a rare and incredible opportunity.
Who is this designed for?
This sail training program is designed for those 18 years and up. No prior sailing knowledge is necessary!
How do we sign up?
You will sign up at the white table before the start of the orientation. Or, sign up HERE! We will contact you by email in the future. All Handouts will include information on dates, classes, graduation requirements, etc.
If you have any other questions, contact Valerie Smith.
For more information on joining the ELISSA volunteer crew, contact us at 409-763-1877.
I am a 5th Generation Texan and have developed a sincere attachment to Elissa and a devotion to all that the volunteers and her staff do to keep her beautiful, maintained, seaworthy and also open to the public! If I lived closer to you all, I would be a volunteer!!! Sail On!