USCGC Eagle, renowned as America’s Tall Ship, is set to embark on a Pacific tour in 2025, marking a pivotal chapter in maritime history. The tour that will trace the historic routes of the Coast Guard’s early revenue cutters, celebrates the legacy of USCGC Eagle and its role in training the future leaders of the U.S. Coast Guard.

In anticipation of the journey, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum’s Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series will feature Santa Barbara resident and sailor Will Sofrin in a talk about the legendary vessel, 7 p.m. Nov. 21.

Admission is free for SBMM Navigators Circle members, $10 for other members, and $20 for the general public. Tickets are available at https://sbmm.org/santa-barbara-events/.

Originally christened as Horst Wessel in 1936 at the Blohm and Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany, the ship was initially a flagship training vessel for the Nazi Kriegsmarine.

During World War II, it served multiple roles, including training Hitler Youth and conducting armed missions in the Baltic Sea. After the war, the vessel was captured by the British and eventually handed over to the United States, where it was rechristened as Eagle.

Today, it remains a cornerstone of the Coast Guard Academy’s maritime training program, as well as serving as a floating ambassador for the Coast Guard. 

Eagle’s upcoming Pacific tour will follow in the wake of its 19th-century predecessors — the revenue cutters, which were key in establishing the Coast Guard’s presence in the Pacific, enforcing customs regulations, aiding in rescues, and ensuring maritime order during the California Gold Rush.

Sofrin was recently invited as a captain’s guest to sail on Eagle during a training exercise in the North Atlantic.

“USCGC Eagle is not just a ship; it’s a living classroom that teaches leadership, perseverance, and the importance of tradition,” said Sofrin. “I’m honored to have sailed on this storied vessel and to share in the experiences that shape the next generation of Coast Guard officers.”

Sofrin began his maritime career a restorer of wooden yachts in Newport, Rhode Island. His passion for the sea has shaped his life, leading him to author “All Hands on Deck: A Modern Day High Seas Adventure to the Far Side of the World” and contribute to publications such as Classic Boat Magazine, Cruising World, and Yachting World.

All lecture seating is first come, first served. SBMM members are invited to enjoy a pre-lecture reception, 6:15-6:45 p.m., which provides early access to the event.

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more, visit sbmm.org or call 805-962-8404.