Sat Jan 24 17:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Jose Gasparilla Ship Prepares for 70th Invasion with Refurbishment and Farewell to Historic Tugboat

The Story:
The Jose Gasparilla II, the iconic pirate ship, is undergoing its annual refurbishment in preparation for its 70th Gasparilla Invasion in 2026. Ahead of the Gasparilla Children’s Parade, the ship is being cleaned and maintained at Port Ybor. This year’s celebration marks a special occasion as the historic tugboat “Dorothy,” built in 1898, makes its final voyage.

Key Points:

  • The Jose Gasparilla II was built in 1954 by the Lackman family.
  • Peter Lackman, a former Captain and King of Gasparilla, provides historical context.
  • The ship is propelled by two tugboats, “Dorothy” at the bow and another at the stern.
  • “Dorothy” is retiring after this year’s Gasparilla and will be replaced by tugboat “Little Timmy”.
  • Conrad Lackman, the former skipper of “Dorothy”, will be aboard the ship during the invasion at 90 years old to commemorate Dorothy’s last invasion.
  • Between 1,200 and 1,400 boats accompany the Jose Gasparilla during the invasion.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Gasparilla Invasion is a deeply rooted Tampa tradition maintained through generations, exemplified by the Lackman family’s involvement.
  • The retirement of “Dorothy” signifies the end of an era, highlighting the historical connection between maritime transport and the festival.
  • The annual refurbishment is crucial for ensuring the safety and presentation of the Jose Gasparilla II.

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