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Tall Ship Providence is undergoing extensive repairs in Maryland as its foundation works to raise $87,300 and return the vessel to Alexandria’s waterfront.

Providence and its crew departed Alexandria in early March for a two-day trip to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Maryland. The work includes major deck and railing repairs, mast and rigging adjustments, and a hull inspection.

Kathy Seifert, executive director of the Tall Ship Providence Foundation, said the repairs have been expensive and time-consuming. The foundation hopes to bring the ship back to the Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center at Waterfront Park in early July, allowing its tours and educational programs to resume.

The replica vessel drew large crowds when it arrived in Alexandria through the open arch of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge in 2019. Its move followed nearly two years of preparation at a Maine shipyard.

Built in 1976, Providence is modeled after the first ship authorized to serve in the Continental Navy. Under Capt. John Paul Jones, the original vessel became known for outmaneuvering larger British ships and capturing ships and their crews during the Revolutionary War era.

Today, the replica operates as a floating classroom featuring hands-on lessons in STEM and maritime history. Its fourth-grade education program aligns with Virginia’s state curriculum and introduces students to the American Revolution.

In 2024, the foundation launched a field trip program intended to expand access for students whose schools have limited budgets for off-site learning. It serves students from Title I schools and other under-resourced communities.

“We are asking for our community’s help to return Providence to our dock and resume her award-winning tours and educational programs,” Seifert said.