IRVING, TX (April 22, 2026) – BoatUS and Scouting America’s Sea Scouts have announced that Sea Scout Ship Viking (#100) of San Francisco, California, has been named the 2026–2027 BoatUS–Sea Scout National Flagship. The honor was created by the Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) in 2002 to mark the 90th anniversary of Sea Scouts and recognizes excellence in program quality, youth achievement and adult commitment.
Chartered by the San Francisco Sailing Whaleboat Association, Ship Viking exemplifies the mission of Sea Scouts: developing leadership, seamanship, and character through hands‑on experience on the water. The ship currently consists of 34 Sea Scouts, including 13 new members recruited within the past year.
In 2025, Viking Sea Scouts demonstrated exceptional achievement in advancement and training. Eight Scouts earned the Apprentice rank, four advanced to Ordinary rank, and an additional four completed the Able rank. Leadership development remained a priority, with many youths completing Introduction to Leadership Skills for Ships (ILSS). Safety training was also strong, with two youth trained in First Aid and CPR, four certified Lifeguards, and 17 having completed the NASBLA Boater Safety Course.
The ship completed a two‑weeklong cruise through San Francisco Bay to the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, visiting ten distinct destinations. Weather permitting, Scouts sail weekly and make extensive use of the ship’s fleet of kayaks. New members are quickly introduced to small‑boat sailing to build confidence and water competency from the outset.
Throughout the year, Ship Viking maintained a strong presence across California by participating in or hosting a wide range of Sea Scout events, including the SeaFarers’ Regatta, Old Salts Regatta, Ancient Mariner Regatta, Wente Sea Scout Weekend, Safety at Sea, Napa Mini Regatta, and the Southwestern Rendezvous. In a notable individual achievement, one of the ship’s Sea Scouts was selected to sail aboard the USCGC Barque Eagle, a rare and distinguished honor for both the Scout and the unit.
Community outreach and program also growth remain central to Viking’s operations. During the year, the ship conducted a rain‑gutter regatta for Cub Scouts, hosted a summer day camp open to Scouts and non‑Scouts, and played a key role in establishing a new Sea Scout Ship (#707) in Vallejo, California. Additional service included construction projects with Tinsley Toilers and the St. Francis Yacht Club, boat‑building efforts with the Maritime Association, and volunteer service as fire marshals during San Francisco Fleet Week.
The 2026–2027 National Flagship designation marks the third time Ship Viking has earned this honor, following previous selections in 2016–2017 and 2023–2024. While the National Selection Committee noted the outstanding quality of all entrants this year, Viking distinguished itself even among this elevated field.
“Sea Scouting equips young people with vital skills to become knowledgeable and responsible boat operators,” said BoatUS Vice President Heather Lougheed. “We commend Sea Scout Ship Viking on its national recognition and applaud the youth members and adult leaders who are helping to guide and foster a strong culture of safety on the water.”
About Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS):
Celebrating more than 55 years, BoatUS is the nation’s largest advocacy, services and safety group with more than 725,000 dues-paying members. BoatUS is the boat owners’ voice on Capitol Hill, fighting for their rights. The TowBoatUS® fleet is available 24/7 to assist our members on the water when boats break down or run aground with some 600 vessels and 300-plus locations across North America, bringing our members safely back to the launch ramp, marina or dock. On the road, we are The Boat Owners Auto Club™, helping ensure roadside trailer and tow vehicle breakdowns won’t slow you down. BoatUS offers GEICO boat insurance policies that give boat owners affordable, specialized coverage and the superior service they need. Award-winning BoatUS Magazine is the largest circulation recreational marine publication in the U.S. with engaging content that speaks to the passion for boat ownership, while our 501(c)(3) nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water offers the nation’s only free online boating safety course and many other programs that keep boaters safe, and our waters clean. Visit BoatUS.com.
About Sea Scouts
Sea Scouts, a program of Scouting America, develops youth leadership, seamanship, and community service through hands-on maritime experiences. Established in 1912, Sea Scouting fosters skill, character, and lifelong respect for the water. Learn more at www.seascout.org.