Historic-styled sailing ship docks at new location, south of Tower Bridge, through Nov. 24.
The arrival of the Hawaiian Chieftain, a 104-foot “tall ship,” to the banks of the Sacramento River has become a much-anticipated fall event in the Capital City.
For years, the ship, styled after 19th century trading vessel, has offered fun, educational opportunities to students and people of all ages.
But this fall, the Hawaiian Chief ran into some trouble on its journey to Sacramento.
The Tower Bridge was undergoing maintenance, and its vertical lift could not be raised to allow the Hawaiian Chieftain through to its usual docking location adjacent to the Old Sacramento Waterfront.
However, thanks to the quick thinking of City of Sacramento Public Works and Convention & Cultural Services, the ship has a new, nearby home at a dock south of the bridge for its stay through Nov. 24. The dock is in front of the Embassy Suites on the riverfront.
To accommodate the Chieftain at that location, City crews needed to reinstall the foam-filled concrete dock, which is normally moved upstream in mid-October, so it doesn’t interfere with bridge operations during periods of high water. Other upgrades were made ahead of schedule, securing the Chieftain’s visit for a 12th year.
“The effort that went into organization changing docks was humbling,” said Hawaiian Chieftain Captain Brendan Reed. “I, for one, really appreciate a place that’s excited for our presence and our education program.”
The Hawaiian Chieftain is open to the public from 4-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, through Nov. 24. A $5 donation is suggested for admission.
Operation of the Hawaiian Chieftain is made possible by Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, a non-profit organization dedicated to educational opportunities, based out of Aberdeen, Wash.