Eighty-five years ago, the Western Flyer set sail for the Gulf of California with what the Monterey Peninsula Herald described as “perhaps the strangest crew ever signed aboard a local workboat” (read the 1940 article here). Among them were renowned local author John Steinbeck and marine biologist Ed Ricketts, embarking on the journey that would inspire the literary classic The Log from the Sea of Cortez.
Now, for the first time since 1940, this legendary vessel—newly restored—will retrace its historic route on a three-month expedition packed with science, education, and community outreach. Before the Western Flyer sets sail, the community is invited to a special weekend of send-off celebrations—85 years to the week after its historic departure! These events will honor the vessel’s enduring legacy and mark the beginning of its next great journey.
The festivities will culminate in a farewell celebration at Old Fisherman’s Wharf—the same location where Steinbeck, Ricketts, and their crew first set sail—including:
- Live Music & Dancing – Ballet folklórico, swing dancers, jazz, and rollicking sea shanties by The Fishwives!
- 1940s costume contest - Dress to impress, strike a pose with “Ed Ricketts,” and win prizes!
- Tours of the Western Flyer – Step aboard and explore this legendary vessel (stay tuned for details on how to sign up for limited tours!)
- Hands-on science & art activities – Fun for kids and adults alike!
- Limited-Edition Commemorative T-Shirts – Return to the Gulf of California merch for sale
- Grand Finale – Watch as the Western Flyer sets sail at 3:00 PM with a fireboat escort and a celebratory ship horn farewell!
