In the late 1960s, a group of passionate New Yorkers lobbied the city to set aside a collection of city blocks in the South Street Seaport as an area worthy of care, attention, and preservation. This group of people became the first volunteers of the South Street Seaport Museum, and laid the foundation for the work the Museum does today in sharing the incredible story of the rise of the port of New York.
Volunteers have supported every aspect of the Seaport Museum, but currently are most often seen working on the waterfront at Pier 16. This crew works to restore and maintain the fleet of historic vessels using traditional maritime skills while enjoying the unique atmosphere of a busy waterfront that makes the South Street Seaport Historic District so special.
The Seaport Museum seeks year-round support with preserving and restoring the historic ships as well as with transcription projects in the Museum’s Archives. Programs aimed at training volunteers how to sail historic ships are also offered seasonally.
All volunteers must be at least 16 years old to participate.
Ship Restoration Program
Actively Recruiting
This year-round program invites volunteers to help maintain and restore the Museum’s fleet of historic ships. All levels of experience are welcome and the Museum offers the chance for new volunteers to learn traditional maritime skills and modern preservation techniques. Volunteers receive training to work aloft in the rigging of the tall ships for maintenance required above deck.
Entry level: No special skills are required, just a willingness to learn and be part of a team. During every month of the year, volunteers and staff work together to care for the fleet. Work includes: cleaning and organizing, repairs, painting, polishing, varnishing, and general maintenance. In the Spring, the operational vessels are fitted out and re-rigged for the coming sailing season, and in the Fall the the sailing vessels are down-rigged for the Winter. Most labor can be unskilled. Training is provided.
Climbers needed: The rigging of the historic 1885 tall ship Wavertree needs regular maintenance. The Museum is actively seeking individuals with experience or an interest in climbing aloft to maintain this important vessel.
Specialized skills: The Museum welcomes any volunteer that has more specialized skills––all ships need painters, carpenters, electricians, engineers, riggers, and metalworkers from time to time. There are also opportunities to learn aspects of these trades during work days and special workshops.
Requirements: Projects require physical stamina, skills as described above, and an ability to work cooperatively in a team setting. Work is often dirty and requires wearing PPE. Volunteers must be willing to work in this kind of environment.
For more information about getting involved please contact [email protected].
Museum Archives Program
Not Currently Recruiting
This is a year-round indoor opportunity to help with digitizing and transcribing records and photographs related to Seaport Museum Archives. Projects include scanning photographic materials and cataloging records, organizing and describing image files, and transcribing handwritten documents into digital formats.
Entry level: No prior experience is needed, just an interest in museums, archives, or data entry. Training for each project and ongoing support is offered throughout the project.
Specialized skills: Any experience with archiving is welcome. Data entry and spreadsheet experience is also a plus.
Sail Training Program
Not Currently Recruiting
Running from April to October, this program trains volunteers how to sail a traditionally rigged tall ship. Learn to crew aboard the historic 1885 schooner Pioneer and sail throughout New York Harbor and the Hudson River.
Entry level: No prior experience is needed, the Museum is looking for curious and highly motivated individuals to join the crew.
Specialized skills: Anyone with experience on the water is welcome to inquire. Prior teaching and communication skills are appreciated.
Recruitment for this program typically runs from January to April, so check back in early 2026 for more information on getting involved.
Requirements: Participants must take a preliminary drug screening and enroll in a United States Coast Guard-mandated random drug testing program. This program requires a large time commitment.
Learn About the Fleet
South Street Seaport Museum is home to a fleet of historic ships including the 1885 tall ship Wavertree, the 1885 schooner Pioneer, the 1908 lightship Ambrose, and the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker. Each vessel is cared for by Museum volunteers and staff. Learn more about each ship, their fascinating histories, and how you can have a first-hand experience on board!
See Volunteers at Work
