New York City’s South Street Seaport Museum invites locals and visitors to step aboard the historic 1885 schooner Pioneer for an immersive sailing experience through New York Harbor. Taking place on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the History on the Harbor Sail offers a rare opportunity to discover the city’s maritime legacy while gliding past some of its most iconic landmarks.
Departing from Pier 16 in the South Street Seaport Historic District, this two-hour educational cruise is a perfect blend of history, sightseeing, and hands-on learning. Tickets are affordably priced between $10 and $50, making the event accessible for families, history lovers, and tourists seeking a unique way to engage with the city’s past.
Step Aboard the Last Iron-Hull American Merchant Schooner Still Sailing
The Pioneer, built in 1885 in Chester, Pennsylvania, was originally used for transporting cargo such as sand, brick, and lumber along the East Coast. What sets her apart is her wrought iron hull, a rare design for American vessels of her time. She is currently the only iron-hull American merchant schooner still active, offering passengers a truly authentic maritime experience.
The vessel’s historic charm is matched by the engaging narration of Stefan Dreisbach-Williams, a maritime historian known for his research on New York Harbor, estuarine ecosystems, and the evolution of trade routes. As the Pioneer sails past the Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and the Brooklyn Bridge, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the harbor’s role in shaping New York City into a global hub of commerce and culture.
History Meets Sightseeing: A Sail for All Ages
The History on the Harbor Sail is crafted to be inclusive and engaging for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a student learning about America’s industrial age, a history buff fascinated by 19th-century trade, or a traveler curious about New York’s roots, this cruise offers insight that’s both entertaining and educational.
Boarding begins at 3:45 PM, and the schooner departs promptly at 4:00 PM, returning to Pier 16 by 6:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy waterfront views and explore nearby attractions, including the Seaport Museum’s indoor galleries and historic ship exhibits.
Museum Admission Included with Every Ticket
All sail tickets include free same-day admission to the South Street Seaport Museum, which is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can explore exhibits aboard the 1885 cargo ship Wavertree, the 1908 lightship Ambrose, and the museum’s expansive collections documenting New York’s rise as a maritime superpower.
The Seaport Museum is an official cultural institution of New York City and works in partnership with the New York City Economic Development Corporation and NYC Parks to maintain public access to the city’s historical waterfront.
Customize Your Experience with Private Charters
For those seeking a more intimate experience on the harbor, the museum also offers private charters aboard the Pioneer. Available for corporate events, weddings, anniversaries, or special family celebrations, these charters range in price from $2,000 to $3,750 and can accommodate up to 36 guests for 2–3 hour sails.
Charter guests can tailor their experiences with custom itineraries, private tours, and catering options, making it an unforgettable way to celebrate any occasion against the breathtaking backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.
A Living Legacy of New York’s Maritime Spirit
The Pioneer is more than just a historic vessel—it’s a floating classroom, a living exhibit, and a gateway to understanding how waterways shaped New York into the bustling metropolis it is today. With environmental discussions and historical context woven into the sail, participants will also explore the role of sail freight and canal systems in the region’s growth.
Programs like these also align with broader sustainability and heritage preservation efforts supported by NYC’s Department of Cultural Affairs and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Seaport Museum remains committed to using active sailing programs to engage the public and foster appreciation for the working waterfront.
Book Now Before It Sells Out
With limited space aboard the schooner and only a few seasonal sails open to the public, advance booking is highly recommended. Tickets for the August 10 sail are available online. Secure your seat today for what promises to be one of summer’s most enriching outdoor adventures in New York City.
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