Egan Maritime Institute is thrilled to welcome back the Tall Ship Lynx for another unforgettable summer season of maritime education and hands-on sailing adventures. Arriving in Nantucket on May 19th at approximately 2:30 PM, The Lynx brings with her a legacy of learning, tradition, and inspiration for Island youth.
Since 2014, Egan Maritime has partnered with The Lynx to offer dynamic on-the-water experiences that connect local students to Nantucket’s rich seafaring heritage. Over the coming weeks, 600 Island students will step aboard the Tall Ship Lynx to immerse themselves in maritime history, oceanography, and practical sailing knowledge, bringing classroom lessons to life on the open water.
“At Egan Maritime Institute, we are committed to preserving and promoting Nantucket's maritime heritage through community education,” said Carlisle Jensen, Executive Director of Egan Maritime Institute. “Our Lynx sails are a cornerstone of the Egan Maritime learning experience. Students are introduced to the Lynx throughout their educational journey—beginning with local history in elementary school, advancing to oceanography and environmental science in middle school, and culminating in high school with career exploration in the maritime field.”
The impact of these programs is deeply felt by students. Cecilia Wendelken, a Nantucket High School senior and Nantucket Golf Club Scholar, credits her experience aboard the Lynx with helping shape her future pat
“After sailing aboard the Lynx my junior year, I immediately felt a sense of purpose that I hadn’t experienced before. It opened my eyes to what my life could look like after high school and the career I could have,” said Cecilia. “If it weren’t for the Lynx and Egan, I’m not sure I would have pursued a maritime career. I am working on the Lynx this summer and enrolling at Maine Maritime in the fall.”
These experiences are offered at no cost to Nantucket students and are made possible thanks to the generous support of Egan Maritime Institute’s donors and program sponsors. Their commitment ensures that maritime education remains accessible to all Nantucket students and families, helping to foster the next generation of mariners.
In addition to student sails, Egan Maritime and the Tall Ship Lynx offer a full season of engaging public programs. From a festive Fourth of July fireworks sail and golden-hour maritime music evenings to family-friendly dockside puppet shows and morning cruises with local breakfast treats, this summer’s calendar is designed to welcome the entire community aboard. Several programs are presented in collaboration with beloved local partners, including Nanpuppets, the Artists Association of Nantucket, and Lemon Press.
2025 Student Sail Sponsors:
