Channel Islands Harbor is getting a new resident.  The Mystic Whaler, a tall ship that has been berthed along the New England Coast for the past 54 years is now in route to its new home here in Oxnard.

The 83-foot-long, 110-foot-tall, steel-hulled schooner, departed Connecticut in mid-October and sailed to Fort Lauderdale, Florida where it was loaded onto a ship carrier for transport through the Panama Canal. The Mystic is currently headed up the coast and is expected to arrive at Channel Islands Harbor in mid-January. 

Built in 1967, and then rebuilt in 1993, the Mystic is a reproduction of a late 19^th century cargo schooner.  It features Italian oak floors and fir wainscoting with mahogany accents along with six bathrooms with a host of showers.  It is certified for 50 passengers and 10 crewmembers. 

Roger and Sarah Chrisman of Montecito purchased the tall ship and will set up a program through their non-profit Central Coast Ocean Adventures to allow the public and youth to tour the ship and learn about the history and science of sea trade.  Also, upon arrival, they plan to rename the ship the “Mystic Cuzar.”  In addition to establishing itself in its new home here at Channel Islands Harbor, the Mystic will also travel to the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and offer tours. 

Roger and Sarah Crisman are longtime supporters of the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and Executive Director, Greg Gorga says “ The Chrismans believe that ‘No child should be left ashore’ and their past support has allowed thousands of young students to experience our educational programs that recreate life as an 1830’s sailor or as hands-on marine scientists. Bringing this tall ship to our waters will expand the number of students our local organizations can serve, will provide these maritime experiences to an even greater number of youths from all different backgrounds, and I am sure will inspire many of them to become future stewards of our oceans.”

We look forward to this new addition to our local harbor and thank the Crismans for making it happen.