The tall ship Lady Washington will dock in Port Orchard three different weeks this summer.
It will be in South Kitsap July 22-29, Aug. 19-26 and Sept. 9-16. The season starts in Seattle April 29-May 13. It will also be in Tacoma and other Puget Sound cities.
The business offers different experiences. For families, history enthusiasts and those interested in shorter trips, it offers an “Adventure on the High Seas.” You’ll travel back in time and sail as they did on the original Lady Washington in the 1700s and 1800s. You’ll even haul lines, set sails and sing sea shanties while learning about American maritime exploration.
There’s also the “Sunset to Remember” cruise. It will drift through charming West Coast towns as you and your significant other or treasured friends and family have a relaxing time at sea. You can even book live music aboard to create a soundtrack for the evening.
For the truly adventurous, it also occasionally offers one-way transit to another port. You could be out at sea for a few hours or a few days. If you so choose, you can even help steer the ship or take part in other duties. All meals are included.
Prices are in the $70 range, with seniors, military and students about $10 less. There are also self-guided dockside tours for just $5 apiece.
Each year the ship engages thousands of students in its one-of-a-kind educational field trip, Voyage of Explorers. The hands-on maritime heritage program provides inquiry-based lessons that begin in the classroom and conclude with unforgettable activities aboard the tall ship.
The Lady Washington has been in Port Orchard getting its half-life refit. It hopes to be done with that project in 2025 then be able to return to sailings to Oregon and California in 2026.