After matters of the heart have been celebrated this Saturday, make for an aquatic field trip down to Redondo Beach’s waterfront Sunday and Monday when the public is invited to explore a floating classroom or Tall Ship. On deck will be a look at a pilot program, STEM TopSail, a hands-on curriculum that blends math, science, nautical charting and leadership skills geared toward middle and high school students. Tour the Tall ship for free on Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or on Monday from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
A Tall Ship from the Los Angeles Maritime Institute docks at Redondo’s waterfront this weekend (Photo Courtesy of King Harbor Boating Foundation).
There will also be a one hour discovery excursion ($10 kids, $20 adults) and a two hour extended adventure where you can become part of the crew and help sail the Tall Ship ($20 kids, $40 adults) on Monday. The Tall Ship will be docked at the Portofino Hotel dock. Space is limited on the sail excursions so reservations are recommended. Tickets purchased at the boat during the event will be an additional $5.00 per ticket. Parking will be available at 260 Portofino Way for $10.
Together, King Harbor Boating Foundation and Los Angeles Maritime Institute have joined collaborative forces to develop STEM TopSail. This outside the classroom approach to education will be King Harbor based and include learning specifically designed to educate about the local Redondo Beach waters and ecosystems. The program is also receiving significant support this year from CenterCal Properties, the creators of the proposed Waterfront pier revitalization project in Redondo.
Further information about STEM TopSail Program can be found at www.khbf.org or www.LAMITopSail.org.