SEA SCOUTING · A MARITIME TRADITION SINCE 1912PALO ALTO · CALIFORNIA
CHARACTER · DUTY · ADVENTURE

A Tradition of Seamanship.
A Future of Leadership.

On the waters of San Francisco Bay, Sea Scout Ship Terrapin develops confident young leaders through practical maritime training, responsibility, and service.

Terrapin turtle wearing a sailor cap before a gold ship's wheel

SEA SCOUT SHIP TERRAPIN

SEAMANSHIP◆LEADERSHIP◆SERVICE

The Sea Is
Our Classroom.

Sea Scouting combines generations of maritime tradition with opportunities to learn by doing. From vessel maintenance to cruising the Bay and Delta, Terrapin’s scouts gain practical skills, lasting friendships, and the confidence to lead.

Learn about Terrapin →
01 / OUR VESSEL
USCGC CAPE WASH

A Working Classroom

Our primary training vessel is the 95-foot former United States Coast Guard cutter Cape Wash.

Explore the vessel →
02 / LIFE ABOARD
LEARN · LEAD · SERVE

Experience That Matters

Hands-on seamanship, teamwork, maintenance, and experiences on the water help develop lifelong skills.

See our adventures →
03 / SUPPORT THE SHIP
A COMMUNITY TRADITION

The Christmas Tree Lot

Learn about our annual Palo Alto fundraiser and how it supports maritime opportunities for young people.

Visit the tree lot →

On the Calendar.

Training, activities, and events are kept current through our shared Google Calendar. Contact the crew before attending, as some activities require advance registration.

Full Calendar →

Open the full Terrapin calendar → if your browser blocks the preview.

EVERY JOURNEY BEGINS SOMEWHERE

Your Next Adventure
Starts Here.

No prior maritime experience necessary. Get in touch to learn about joining Terrapin.

Get In Touch ↗