
The tancook whaler
The tancook whaler
A sail out on Lake Michigan is a wonderful experience for every member of the family. St. Joseph's harbor is a working port with lots to see. Home to an active U.S. Coast Guard Station, train bridge and a historic lighthouse. Large ships carrying freight often cross our path as MJ makes her way out to the blue lake waters. The view from the lake is the city skyline and wilderness areas of undeveloped beaches.
Modeled after ships from the late 1800s, MJ proudly sets as much sail as comfortable and enjoys cruising along without the engine. The crew will invite you to help "hoist the main", and we often take a minute of silence to enjoy nature after sails are set. Even on days when there is no breeze, MJ still showcases how the sailors of old set, trimmed and used sails. Each trip is infused with special details to help guests feel the magic of the bygone days of old tall ships, their songs and stories.
While onboard MJ, the crew work to give you an old-fashioned experience while keeping some modern comforts. They will invite you to help with sails, ask questions about the ship, and go on a tour below decks. As time allows, they will even entertain you with some shanties! For the rest of the trip, we encourage you to crack open your cooler, lean back and enjoy the view of the horizon from the warm wooden decks of an old schooner.
After over 20 years in the industry, Captain Megan is proud to be running her own sailing company for training and tourism.
Tall Ship MJ is located at the Marina at Harbor Shores, just across from Plank's Tavern:
800 Whitwam Drive, St Joseph, MI 49085
When arriving, please use the Inn at Harbor Shores parking lot. Then just follow the curve of the docks till you come to the ship with the large blue masts. You can't miss her.
As a member of MAST Fleet, tall ship MJ shares the Maritime Academy and Sail Training's mission of bringing the life changing influence of the world's waterways, its exploration, culture and skills to all who seek it. We connect people to boats, to water, and to each other.
Learn more about our full organization MAST - Maritime Academy and Sail Training!
As lovely as it is to see the sun on the blue water, or watch the birds at sunset - MJ's job extends beyond showing our guest a great time. A foundational part of our summer program is to provide excellent training to our crew. Whether we are their first ship or just a stop along the way, we are dedicated to advancing their maritime career. While sailing under MJ's mast we work to give our team of sailors strong skills in seamanship, rigging, communication, collaboration and to build steps for their next move in the industry.
The Fo'c'sle Club is our group of volunteers that jump in to sail, paint, teach, sand, and support Tallship MJ. We also like to play on other people's boats, supporting new endeavors and captains with dreams. Anything that keeps the ships afloat, the stories flowing, and the drinks as strong as the camaraderie.
- Errol Flynn
800 Whitwam Drive, Saint Joseph, Michigan 49085, United States
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