Buccaneers to Arrive at Oakland Tomorrow

The 122-ft topsail schooner Lynx will make a spectacle of herself on the Estuary tomorrow as she kicks off to a two-week stay at Jack London Square. The replica of a War of 1812-era privateer will fire her battery of "six-pounders" as she sails into port around 3 p.m. Afterward, the public is invited for a free dockside tour from 4-5 p.m. Tours are offered for most days of their stay for just $5 for adults (kids 12 & under can come aboard for free), and Adventure Sails will be available on the weekends for $65 ($35 for kids). If you want the ultimate Lynx experience, sign up to sail aboard for the Master Mariners race on May 23 — what a scream!

Lynx, which is also an entry in this summer’s TransPac Race, is run by the Lynx Educational Foundation, a non-profit that teaches the public about early American history and marine science in a hands-on environment. One of the cooler aspects of the experience is that crew wear period uniforms and can be heard to growl "Arrrr" every now and again. If you haven’t had a chance to explore Lynx, set aside some time for a salty family adventure. Surf on over to www.privateerlynx.org for a schedule and reservations, or call (866) 446-5969.