One of San Pedro’s real points of pride is the Los Angeles Maritime Institute (LAMI) and its TopSail Youth Program. LAMI uses hands-on experiences at sea to provide an array of social, education and leadership development opportunities to middle school and high school students in San Pedro and Wilmington, and throughout the greater Los Angeles area. The TopSail Youth Program is offered year-round aboard the Tall Ships Irving Johnson and Exy Johnson, 110-foot traditionally rigged wooden vessels named after Adventure Learning pioneers who sailed around the world seven times with young crews. Our purpose-built vessels and their crews were proclaimed the “Official Tall Ships and Maritime Ambassadors of the City of Los Angeles” at their launch in 2002. The ships were built right on the LA Waterfront. And everyone has a chance to sail on them—and even pull a line. Both ships offer a variety of sailing opportunities throughout the year, including Family Fun Sails, Adventure Sails, and Sunset Potluck sails. There are also youth camps. If you love the sea, there is no better way to experience it than on a traditional vessel and here is your opportunity. Los Angeles Maritime Institute Berth 73, Suite 2, LA Waterfront 310-833-6055, www.LAMITopSail.org Click here to see both the Exy Johnson and the Iriving Johnson sailing