The Flagship Niagara League announces William Sabatini, former Chief Mate of the Niagara has been promoted to Captain. Sabatini will become the fourth Captain of the Niagara. Sabatini joined Niagara in 2005 as Third Mate and has been Chief Mate for the last six years. Sabatini received his education at Maine Maritime Academy and has prior experience on traditional schooners. “We’re excited for a smooth transition as Billy becomes Niagara’s newest Captain.” – Walter Rybka, Senior Captain.
Captain Wesley Heerssen is stepping down as Captain of the US Brig Niagara. Heerssen joined the Niagara 13 years ago and has been captain for the last 11 sailing seasons. “I wish Wes well in his new endeavor. He has successfully sailed Niagara while teaching and training others.” – Walter Rybka, Senior Captain- US Brig Niagara. “Heerssen was instrumental in developing Niagara’s Sail Training Program and is responsible for what it has become today. He has been a true asset to Niagara and FNL.” –Tim Goldsmith, Board President of the Flagship Niagara League.
A meet and greet with Captain Sabatini is scheduled for March 8th at 11 am at the Erie Maritime Museum. For additional information, contact the museum at 814.455.6760.
The U.S. Brig Niagara is owned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and is operated by the Flagship Niagara League (FNL), a 501 (C) 3 non-profit educational associate organization of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), chartered to facilitate citizen participation and operation of the US Brig Niagara and its homeport, Erie Maritime Museum.