Charleston’s waterways welcomed a special visitor this Memorial Day weekend as the national security multi-mission training vessel Empire State VII arrived at the Port of Charleston on May 22. The ship carries more than 500 cadets from SUNY Maritime College.
Ship Built for Training and Disaster Response
Delivered in 2023, the Empire State VII was designed as a purpose-built training ship and to assist in national disaster response efforts. The vessel will remain in Charleston until May 25 before continuing its journey to Spain.
During its visit, the public will have the opportunity to climb aboard for an information session at 10 a.m. on May 23 or for guided tours on May 24 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Educational Mission and Cadet Training
John Okon, admiral and president of SUNY Maritime College, said the visit is primarily a recruiting effort. “There are a number of kids that are from this area — Charleston, North Charleston — that live on the water. They don’t know that there is a career college that can bring their love of the ocean to a natural career in the U.S.,” Okon said.
The cadets aboard are enrolled in the college’s regimental program and are working toward U.S. Coast Guard licensing. As part of the Summer Sea Term, the cadets complete an eight-week seagoing experience, rotating through a schedule of two days of instruction, two days of maintenance, and two days of deck-side duties, according to Capt. Christopher Zola.
“Every day, these cadets grow one more step closer, they evolve whether it’s through maintenance, training, instruction, watch keeping. It is a seven-day cycle out here,” Okon said.
Itinerary of the Empire State VII
Charleston marks the first stop on the ship’s international voyage. Following the visit, the Empire State VII will travel to Malaga, Spain; Belfast, Northern Ireland; New York City for the Sail4th 250 event; and Albany, New York, before returning to SUNY Maritime College on July 16.
