The Texas Clipper II, which serves as the training ship for the maritime Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University at Galveston, completes its final summer cruise Saturday when it returns to Galveston, where it will be replaced by a newer ship.
The Maritime Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation owns the ship, which A&M has used since 1996.
"Although it is sad to say goodbye to a ship that has become a part of your history and Aggie tradition, we are excited to receive a new training ship to accommodate the future growth of the maritime training program here in Galveston," said James McCloy, interim superintendent of the Texas Maritime Academy.
The ship embarked on its final A&M cruise on June 4.
During the voyage cadets and crewmembers rescued a man whose motor yacht was disabled in heavy seas produced by Hurricane Dennis.
