Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta will welcome a remarkable piece of maritime history this month as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle docks at Pier 2 from May 9 to 12. Known as “America’s Tall Ship,” the Eagle arrives as part of a goodwill and training mission, offering a rare glimpse of a vessel that has sailed through some of the world’s most pivotal moments.
Built in 1936 at the Hamburg shipyards, the 295-foot, three-masted ship was originally christened Horst Wessel and served as a training vessel for the German Navy. During its launching ceremony, a moment of quiet defiance was captured in a now-famous photograph when a worker, August Landmesser, stood with his arms crossed while others gave the Nazi salute in the presence of Adolf Hitler.
Following World War II, the ship was claimed by the United States as part of war reparations. Recommissioned as USCGC Eagle, it became a floating classroom for U.S. Coast Guard Academy cadets and officer candidates. Since then, it has trained generations of sailors using traditional seafaring techniques, all while representing the United States in ports around the world.
The Eagle is homeported in New London, Connecticut and remains the only active square-rigger in U.S. government service. It features 23 sails, six miles of rigging, and a tallest mast measuring 150 feet—comparable to a 15-story building. With a steel hull and weather decks lined in teak, the ship reaches speeds up to 17 knots and carries a crew of over 230, including 153 cadets.
ASIPONA (National Port System Administration) has confirmed that the Eagle’s arrival will include a special presentation at 11:00 a.m. on May 9 for the media and invited local, naval, and military officials. While public visiting hours have not yet been announced, the ship’s presence will be an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors to witness a piece of living history.
More than just a training vessel, the USCGC Eagle serves as a symbol of friendship and international outreach. Its visit to Puerto Vallarta is a rare and meaningful event that underscores the strong ties between nations and the enduring legacy of maritime tradition.
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