Historic Tall Ship To Visit Toms River For Maritime Celebration

TOMS RIVER – New Jersey’s official tall ship, the historic A.J. Meerwald, is set to sail into Barnegat Bay for a port visit, launching a series of maritime events celebrating the region’s nautical heritage.

The 1928 oyster schooner will arrive July 9, with a midday “parade of sail” up the Toms River. Local boaters are encouraged to join the welcoming flotilla around noon and escort the vessel upriver. The visit will feature educational programs and public tours highlighting New Jersey’s boatbuilding and oystering history, as well as the importance of preserving the health of Barnegat Bay.

Open boat tours aboard the Meerwald are scheduled for Wednesday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 10…