US Coast Guard Welcomes Public Tours of Cutter “Narwhal” in Dana Point

The 87-foot Coast Guard cutter Narwhal will visit Dana Point harbor on Saturday April 13th. The United States Coast Guard, USCG Auxiliary Division 6 and the Ocean Institute will welcome public tours from 10 AM to 3 PM. Members of the public will have the opportunity to tour the warship, meet the crew, ask questions about life and service aboard a Coast Guard vessel, and learn about the mission support roles fulfilled by the CG Auxiliary.

USCG Auxiliary Division 6 Commander Garry Nelson is thrilled to coordinate Narwhal’s third visit to Dana Point Harbor in as many years. The Auxiliary’s Division 6, comprising 6 flotillas and 208 members, is responsible for an area that spans the Orange County coast and parts inland from San Mateo Point to Seal Beach. Flotillas are located in Dana Point, Newport Harbor, Orange Coast, Huntington Harbor, Seal Beach, and North Orange County. “With March being Women’s History Month”, Commander Nelson said, “we are honored to have the Commanding Officer of Narwhal, LTJG Annabella Farabaugh in command. Visitors will have a chance to meet The Lt, one of the outstanding female officers who serve as Coast Guard vessel commanders. Along with her officers and crew, visitors can learn about the Coast Guard firsthand and talk about a potential career in the service. "

“And April is National Volunteer month”, he continued, “a great time to explore opportunities for service in the Auxiliary. We are the uniformed volunteer branch of the US Coast Guard and provide support for its Missions. Auxiliarists in Orange County’s Division 6 served over 38,700 mission hours last year. This is an excellent opportunity for the public to meet the crew and talk with Auxiliary members about rewarding volunteer service.”

Safety and Security Patrols, Search and Rescue

Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers receive extensive training, both dockside and on the water, so they can function as an effective force multiplier for the Coast Guard. They conduct on the water Safety and Security patrols, offer assistance and handle safety issues in local waters . Major programs include Search and Rescue, Recreational Boating Safety, Vessel inspections, and Public Education.

On April 13th, the Auxiliary will be coordinating tours, engaging kids with “Coastie”, their fun, moving, “talking” ship, and educating the public on marine safety, proper use of life jackets, clean boating habits, fuel-oil spill prevention, paddle craft requirements, safe fire extinguisher use, marine radio operations, and distress flare simulations.

The public will have an opportunity to sign up for boater education classes and free vessel exams at the event or can learn more at the CGAUX website. Those interested in joining a local Auxiliary are encouraged to email Brian Tankersley, Staff Officer Human Resources for information and a referral to a Flotilla in their area.