Guided Tours | Wed–Sun | 11am–5pm | Pier 16 | Free
Join a guided tour of the 1908 lightship Ambrose at South Street Seaport Museum. Visitors can tour the multiple decks of this National Historic Landmark to see the living and working spaces once inhabited by sailors stationed on Ambrose, as well as the special features that allow the ship to fulfill its mission of staying on station, being seen, and being heard. Ambrose was the first vessel to join the Seaport Museum’s fleet and the very first lightship to guard the largest shipping channel in and out of the ports of New York and New Jersey—the Ambrose Channel.
On your tour you will learn how Ambrose played a significant role in the immigrant experience and hear about how countless waves of immigrants brought with them diverse cultures, traditions, and skills that interwove to form the rich tapestry of the city's identity.
Tours are led multiple times per day and last approximately 30 minutes. Guests must check in 10 minutes before the tour at 12 Fulton Street or at the red tent on Pier 16. Access to Ambrose requires walking up an angled gangway. Stairs lead to the lower decks.
Tours are free to add to a General Admission tickets but selection of timed-entry is required for reservations.
Advance reservations are recommended. Book your tickets below!
Extend Your Visit
In addition to General Admission and timed-tour tickets, participants are invited to enjoy a Daytime, Sunset or Launch and Learn sail on the Seaport Museum’s 1885 schooner Pioneer, or a weekend ride on the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker. These added experiences are the perfect opportunity for an unforgettable evening with friends and family, a serene solo adventure, or a dreamy date night. Tickets for these on-the-water activities range from $15–$70.
About the 1908 Lightship Ambrose
Lightship LV-87, also known as Ambrose, was built in 1907 as a floating lighthouse to guide ships safely from the Atlantic Ocean into the Lower New York Bay. Occupying her station from 1908–1932, she guided mariners to the nation’s busiest port, and welcomed over six million immigrants into New York Harbor.
South Street Seaport Museum
By subway: Take the A, C, 2, 3, J, Z, 4, or 5 train to Fulton Street.
By bus: Take the M-15 SBS or M-15 to Fulton Street.
By water: The NYC Ferry, and New York Waterway provide service to Pier 11. The Staten Island Ferry provides services to Whitehall Terminal.
Parking: Parking lots can be found at Front and John Streets, as well as 294 Pearl Street.