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Region’s Most Unique Waterfront Event Returns

Only event hosted on Norfolk’s cruise ship pier features sailboats, local brews, live music, and more. 

Norfolk, Va. (September 13, 2023) – On September 23, one day prior to the 4,000-passenger cruise ship Carnival Magic returning to Norfolk from the Bahamas, Nauticus’ downtown cruise ship pier will be transformed into the ultimate waterfront event space.  The second annual SailFest returns with a community regatta and pier party.  The fundraiser supports Sail Nauticus, a sailing program for our local, underserved youth. 

The family-friendly waterfront event features a driving range (with biodegradable golf balls), the live music of Schooner or Later, sailboat racing, and local vendors.  Ticket holders will enjoy the best creations of local favorites, Waters Edge Winery, Elation Brewing, and Neptune’s Fury Coffee Co.   

“This is a unique, fun celebration for our community,” said Director of Development & Marketing, Rehn West.  “But our guests definitely know they’re supporting a program that makes a real difference in the lives of Hampton Roads students.” 

Community members interested in attending SailFest should visit www.nauticus.org to purchase tickets. The event features adult and child tickets to include drinks and food from local food trucks, Hades Wood Fired Pizza and Hangry’s. But hurry, ticket prices increase on September 18.  

SailFest would not be possible without the generous support of Presenting Sponsor, Bay Power Solutions and community sponsors, Rivers Casino Portsmouth, Xylem Tree Experts, Southern Bank, Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), Williams Mullen, Gentry Locke, Virginia Pilot Association, Hampton Roads Shipping Association and Virginia Maritime Association.   

About Nauticus  
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

Ship, Shipmate, Self

By Captain Michael Fiorentino

Welcome to the Virtual Great Chesapeake Schooner Race. As you follow along with us virtually, we also wanted to share with you what’s it like to be on a schooner at sea. 

You might wonder, how big a crew is required to sail the ship?  The answer varies depending on what we are doing.  As few as 6 can move the ship around, but mostly under motor and certainly not with all sails up.  That requires more…the big ones are heavy and supported by a solid wood gaff that is also heavy.  There are bunks for 26 crew members but are seldom all filled.  A crew of 15 to 20 can sail the ship under all conditions…as long as they work together.

The most important thing is that the crew function as one… that’s where the expression “ship, shipmates, self” originated. While underway, our priority is the safety and integrity of the ship, then we should consider the needs of our shipmates, and lastly our personal wants and wishes.

Shipmates need to help each other out and when hard work is required, like raising the mainsail, all must pull as one.  That is where sea shanties came from.  The shanties provided the rhythm to the crew to haul or heave together working in unison to achieve a momentous task.

For the schooner race, during which we might have all 8 sails, more than 6500 square feet, flying we must all work together for sail raising and sail evolutions—trimming sails, tacking, jibing, etc.

For the virtual GCBSR, we also all need to pull together—every bit helps. $25, 50, $500 will all help us reach out goal. So, please, help our ship by being a generous shipmate. 

Sail Nauticus Academy Graduation 2023

By Sarah Linden – Brooks

Each June, we get to indulge in our favorite event here at Sail Nauticus—Sail Nauticus Graduation. Our spring celebration includes a family week during the final week of programming. Family members of our Academy students are invited out for a sail. This special program allows parents to meaningfully connect with their kids and experience the magic of sailing firsthand. Our week culminates with a bridging ceremony for sixth and seventh graders and graduation of our eighth graders.

This year we welcomed state Delegate Jackie Glass as our keynote speaker. Her son graduated from our program in 2020. As a parent of one of our alumni she reflected on the power of the program to build confidence and character in our students. By entrusting adolescents with vessels on the busy Elizabeth River–long before these students are eligible for driver’s licenses—Delegate Glass described Sail Nauticus Academy as a gift of freedom, an opportunity not often afforded to middle-schoolers.

Our students also know that our program is special. One of our 2023 graduates wrote this in their journal this spring: “I drove the motorboat which was kind of awesome. The sailboat was also real fun to ride in… [It was a] pretty good day on the water.” Another shared, “Today was awesome! I love being on the water! I learned so much & can’t wait for next time.”

Even as someone who gets to see the magic of the program on a weekly basis, Delegate Glass’s perspective provided a new lens and appreciation for me. Her impassioned speech focused on how special Sail Nauticus is—and how the program we facilitate “is not normal” it is extraordinary. As we celebrate the accomplishments of the 2022-2023 school year, I hope you’ll consider a donation to Sail Nauticus to enable us to continue this extraordinary program into the future.

Battleship Driving Range & Underwater Exploration

Father’s Day Weekend Festival at Nauticus

Norfolk, VA. (June 13, 2023) – Nauticus is gearing up to celebrate Father’s Day Weekend with a splash offering discounted admission of $5 per person when purchased online, in advance. The discovery center will kick off the weekend with its grand opening of Aquaticus, the second exhibit gallery to open as a part of its $21.5 million comprehensive redesign, in addition to a unique driving range aboard Battleship Wisconsin.

The 2,800-square-foot gallery space, entitled Aquaticus, takes children on a whimsical journey under the sea.  Guests will spin a ship’s wheel to activate a “submerged” disco ball as thousands of beautiful silver bubbles rise towards the surface.  Young visitors will explore a fanciful ship floating high above their heads and walk through a seagrass forest after discovering an underwater cave. 

For those looking for the thrill of a unique experience, head to the Battleship Wisconsin for the chance to hit a biodegradable golf ball off the fantail. “BattleChip & Sip” will be available to visitors during select times throughout the weekend.

Admission tickets are $5 per person if purchased in advance and $10 on the day of. As always, Nauticus members are free. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit Nauticus online here.


About Nauticus 

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

New Early Learner Gallery and Aquarium Usher in Summer at Nauticus

Exploration and creativity anchor first-of-its-kind children’s experience.

Norfolk, Va. (June 1, 2023) – Nauticus will open its first-ever themed environment for early learners on Father’s Day weekend.  The 2,800-square-foot gallery space, entitled Aquaticus, takes children on a whimsical journey under the sea.  Guests will spin a ship’s wheel to activate a “submerged” disco ball as thousands of beautiful silver bubbles rise towards the surface.  Young visitors will explore a fanciful ship floating high above their heads and walk through a seagrass forest after discovering an underwater cave.  Aquaticus is the second exhibit gallery to open as part of Nauticus’ transformational redesign and is set to make a splash this summer.  In addition, Nauticus’ adjoining aquarium will feature all new fish, new tanks, and educational content.  Entitled Our Nautical Neighbors, the newly-designed aquarium showcases local fish species found in the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay. 

Aquaticus is a real first for us,” said Nauticus President and CEO, Stephen Kirkland.  “It’s purposefully designed to be enjoyed by multi-generational families and it’s just plain fun.  It brings out my inner Willy Wonka.”  

Aquaticus is the second permanent gallery space to open as part of the Reimagine Nauticus project, a $21.5 million transformation of the maritime discovery center.  The entire redesign project will be completed in 2024, including five state-of-the-art exhibit galleries, new aquarium features, a STEM Discovery Lab, and a refreshed entrance pavilion.  This represents the largest enhancement and investment in Nauticus since it opened in 1994.  

Aquaticus is named in memory of Howard & Nancy Spainhour. Nauticus members will be first to experience the new exhibits during member-only hours on Thursday, June 15th and Friday, June 16th from 10 AM – 5 PM.  Aquaticus will open to the general public on Saturday, June 17th at 10AM.  Nauticus admission for opening weekend (6/17 and 6/18) will be only $5 per person!  Timed tickets are required for entry and must be purchased online, please click here

For more information on Nauticus’ redesign project, including detailed descriptions of each gallery space, or for more information on how to support the Reimagine Nauticus Campaign, please visit https://nauticus.org/reimagine-nauticus/.  

About Nauticus  
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.  

Nauticus After Dark Is Back For A Spring Fling

Explore Nauticus After Hours at this 21+ Only Event

Norfolk, Va. – Spring into Summer at Nauticus on Thursday, May 18th from 6 PM to 9 PM with a special after-hours event for adults 21+ only. Nauticus After Dark: Spring Fling will feature exploration of their new exhibit gallery, Norfolk In Time, complete with live music by Johnny Smallwood, spring cocktails by Traditions Catering Co., mocktails by Crunchy Hydration, karaoke, engaging activities and more. 

Norfolk In Time opened to the public on May 6 and this will be the first event where visitors can enjoy the space after-hours. An impressive highlight of the exhibit includes an interactive chandelier that canopies overtop the entire gallery illustrating how one individual can create a ripple of change in their own community. To learn more about Norfolk In Time, see here: https://nauticus.org/explore/museum-exhibits/norfolk-in-time/.

Nauticus After Dark tickets are $5 per person for Nauticus Members and $12 per person for non-members ($15 at the door). Tickets can be purchased here.

About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

Nauticus Unveils New Exhibit Gallery Focused on Resiliency 

$2 million gallery ushers in first phase of museum transformation.

Norfolk, Va. (May 5, 2023) – Community leaders and stakeholders participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, May 4th, to celebrate the opening of Nauticus’ new permanent exhibit gallery, Norfolk In Time.  The 7,500-square-foot gallery, overlooking Downtown Norfolk’s skyline and floodwall protection system, focuses on regional resiliency.  Norfolk in Time is named in memory of Frances Martin Lindsay, the late wife of Harvey Lindsay Jr.  Participants at the event also celebrated the opening of Nauticus’ newly named Brock Theater. 

“We’re so grateful to the Harvey and Frances Lindsay family and also to Joan Brock for their commitment,” said Nauticus executive director, Stephen Kirkland.  “This is the first major milestone of our transformational redesign.”

Norfolk In Time will open to the general public on Saturday, May 6th at 12 PM. To purchase tickets, please visit www.nauticus.org.

For more information on Nauticus’ redesign project, including detailed descriptions of each gallery space, or for more information on how to donate to the Reimagine Nauticus Campaign, please visit https://nauticus.org/reimagine-nauticus/

About Nauticus
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources.

For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

Nauticus Opens First Phase of $21.5 Million Transformation 

Resiliency at the core of new 7,500 square-foot gallery.

Norfolk, Va. (April 25, 2023) – The first permanent gallery space to open as part of Nauticus’ $21.5 million comprehensive redesign focuses on the region’s history of resiliency and adaptation.  Entitled Norfolk In Time, the gallery is comprised of highly-interactive exhibits featuring examples – both historical and contemporary – of local individuals who have met challenges with innovation and resourcefulness. 

Nearly $2 million in specially designed interactive exhibits populate the space.  Visitors will ascend high overtop Norfolk in a hot air balloon simulation, design a more resilient city with innovative architecture, and crash waves into various types of city protection systems.  An interactive chandelier canopies overtop the entire gallery illustrating how one individual can create a ripple of change in their own community.  

“This region has always been home to resilient innovators who have adapted to change,” said Nauticus President and CEO, Stephen E. Kirkland.  “Nauticus is perhaps the only museum in the country quite literally built behind a flood wall, and so we felt this was a story we had to tell.”    

Norfolk In Time is named in memory of Frances Martin Lindsay, the late wife of local developer, Harvey Lindsay Jr., who himself passed away last week.  Nauticus members will be first to experience the new exhibits during member-only hours on Friday, May 5th from 10 AM – 5 PM and on Saturday, May 6th from 10 AM – Noon. Norfolk in Time will open to the general public on Saturday, May 6th at Noon. To purchase admission tickets to Nauticus, please visit www.nauticus.org.

Norfolk In Time is the first permanent gallery space to open as part of the Reimagine Nauticus project, a $21.5 million transformation of the maritime discovery center.  A second gallery space will open later this summer and the entire project will be completed in 2024, including five state-of-the-art exhibit galleries, new aquarium features, a STEM Discovery Lab, and a refreshed entrance pavilion.  This represents the largest enhancement and investment in Nauticus since it opened in 1994.  For more information on Nauticus’ redesign project, including detailed descriptions of each gallery space, or for more information on how to support the Reimagine Nauticus Campaign, please visit https://nauticus.org/reimagine-nauticus/.


About Nauticus 
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

$500,000 Grant from Sentara Healthcare to Support Nauticus’ Transformational Redesign

Funding will help establish a new STEM Discovery Lab

Norfolk, Va. (April 18, 2023) – A new STEM Discovery Lab at Nauticus will serve area students and families thanks to a $500,000 grant from Sentara Healthcare.  The education-focused lab will be used for daily programming, educational demonstrations, visitor engagement opportunities, and school field trips for thousands of students each year.  Sentara Healthcare representatives presented Nauticus’ President & CEO, Stephen Kirkland, with a $500,000 check on Tuesday, April 18th.

The new STEM Discovery Lab is part of a total transformation of all Nauticus’ exhibit spaces and visitor experience areas.  The $21.5 million project includes the development of five large-scale, interactive exhibit galleries that span the entire third floor of the maritime discovery center.  Additionally, a newly designed “Wonder Hall” will greet students and visitors as they enter the facility.  The comprehensive project will parallel newly created “STEM to Stern” programming and chart a course for the next generation of families, learners, and professionals. 

“Education is the real heartbeat of our organization,” said Nauticus’ President & CEO, Stephen E. Kirkland.  “As we continue to engage and inspire students and families, we’re so grateful to Sentara Healthcare for helping provide a new home for impactful STEM learning.”

“Sentara is committed to the communities we serve and continues to search for opportunities to invest in education and training for our future leaders,” said Aubrey Layne, Executive Vice President of Governance and External Affairs for Sentara Healthcare. “We are grateful to support Nauticus in the development of educational and staffing resources for the STEM Discovery Lab, as well as the initiation of community-based programs to expand access and enhance the experience for visitors.”

Sentara Healthcare’s STEM Discovery Lab will open in 2024 along with three new gallery spaces – all part of the second phase of Nauticus’ transformation.  Work on the first phase of the project began in November 2022 and the first new interactive galleries (Norfolk In Time and Aquaticus) will open this summer.

For more information on Nauticus’ redesign project, including detailed descriptions of each gallery space, or for more information on how to donate to the Reimagine Nauticus Campaign, please visit https://nauticus.org/reimagine-nauticus/

About Nauticus

Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military. Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 that supports the mission and activities of Nauticus. Nauticus’ mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences, and sharing access to maritime resources

For more information, visit www.nauticus.org.

Photo Attached: L – R; John DeGruttola (Sentara), Rehn West (Nauticus), Stephen Kirkland (Nauticus), Aubrey Layne (Sentara), Andy Stephenson (Sentara), Amanda Simpson (Sentara).

Media Alert: Cruise Ship Debut at Nauticus, the Viking Octanis

One of the cruise industry’s most unique ships is making its debut at Nauticus today; the Viking Octanis arrived in downtown Norfolk this morning at 8AM.  Built in 2022 for Viking Cruises, the Viking Octanis is an expedition ship built specifically to explore the world’s most remote destinations.  The 665-foot-long vessel’s unusual bow and hull are designed to navigate through icy waters in Antarctica.  The luxury cruise ship accommodates only 378 passengers and 256 crew members. 

The Viking Octanis is in Norfolk as part of a 62-day cruise.  The vessel left Buenos Aires on March 3 and after stops in Chile, Peru and Panama, it is currently making its way up the east coast.