SAIL, EXPLORE, LEARN

From the Executive Director

Are you setting goals for the new year? At Call of the Sea, we are, too.  In 2025 we are planning to get more than 5,000 young people out on the water, and expand our reach beyond Marin to more schools in Sonoma, San Francisco, Contra Costa, and Alameda Counties. Last year, more than 50% of our school field trips were funded by scholarships to Title I schools. So, in 2025 we hope to increase it to at least 60%. Our summer camp program is also expanding to include an additional week, starting on June 16th. There will also be more opportunities this year to sail on overnight voyages around the Bay and in the Gulf of the Farallones for both young and old.

Go Sailing More is our New Year’s Resolution for 2025!  I hope it is yours, too, and I look forward to seeing you out on the water soon.

Carla Thorson

Executive Director

Volunteer of the Month Catherine Crow

Originally from the Midwest, Volunteer Cat Crow’s lifelong connection to the water began with small-boat sailing on Lake Michigan, canoeing in the Northwoods, and kayaking on Lake Superior. After graduating college, their passion for tall-ship sailing ignited during a schooner voyage in Maine.

“I have often said that I was born too late to explore the world but born too early to explore the universe, however this community not only fills that yearning for adventure, but also for connection with people and nature.” 

Drawn to the adventure, community, and connection with nature, they joined Call of the Sea in March of 2024 after their mother discovered the organization. Since then, they’ve loved working with kids, fostering excitement and wonder during summer camps, and offering many their first tall ship experience. They cherish moments aloft under sail and have gained invaluable knowledge from the captains and crew, blending intellectual growth with physical challenges. 

“This organization truly emphasizes constant learning, and I appreciate the patience the crew has to not only teach volunteers but also each other.”

Each volunteer day leaves them fulfilled, proud, and deeply connected to the ship and its mission. 

“Tall ship sailing as a whole integrates intellectual growth really neatly with physical connection to its tasks. At the end of any work day, I always feel exhausted both physically and mentally, which breeds a beautiful sense of accomplishment and pride in oneself!”

Even though Cat only started their journey with us 2024, they have already logged over 460 volunteer hours. They are truly committed to the mission and work that Call of the Sea highlights, and we thank them greatly for their continued support!

Educational News & Events

Winter Camp | Call of the Sea.

February 17-21

For youth ages 7-10

Just 5 spots left!

This week-long program will provide hands-on immersive experiences in marine and nautical sciences. We can't wait to see how the next generation of learners engages with the wonders of the San Francisco Bay!

Call of the Sea in the Classroom

Education Manager Sam Martinez visited the science club at Mill Valley Middle School in early January, bringing the squid and educational materials to support scientific exploration through dissection of squid. The students were all quite engaged and enthusiastic; there were just a few wrinkled noses! Kudos to parent Bella Kazwell for coordinating with the teacher and to Sam for making it happen! Photos courtesy of Bella Kazwell.

Community Sailing

To celebrate Valentine's Day this year, and fulfill our goal to sail more, we just added a special pre-season sail on schooner Seaward, Friday, February 14, 3:30-6 pm.

Seaward mostly sails for schools and summer camps, so don't miss this chance to treat your sweetie to an afternoon on the Bay aboard this classic 82' schooner.

Other Special Sailing dates:

• 3/23 & 3/24 Sail GP Viewing
• 4/4 First Sail of the Year
• 4/19 Pre-Earth Day Sail
• 4/27 Opening Day on the Bay
• 5/11 Mother's Day Sail