South Street Seaport Museum was founded with a spirit of preservation and action and Patron members carry that commitment even further through their support. As a Patron, your philanthropic support plays a crucial role in advancing and empowering the Museum—strengthening efforts to preserve New York’s maritime history, elevate often overlooked stories, and create meaningful experiences that connect history to the City today. In a place defined by constant change, you as a Patron help ensure these stories remain accessible for generations to come.
When you become a Patron member, you receive all the benefits of Museum membership and more. You will get exclusive behind-the-scenes access, special invitations, on-site and online recognition, and unique opportunities to engage more deeply with the Museum and its work. As a Patron, your generosity helps the Museum tell the story of “Where New York Begins.”
Already a Patron member? Log in to your membership portal to access event ticket discounts, renew your membership, or explore upgrade options.
Find the Level of Support for You

Tugboat Patron
Two Adults | Single Year | $250
View Benefits
All Dual Member benefits plus:
- Two single-use General Admission guest passes
- Recognition on the donor webpage
- Preregistration for select public programs and events
- Invitations to opening receptions
- 30% discount on all Collections and Archives research fees
$197 tax deductible

Lightship Patron
Two Adults | Single Year | $500
View Benefits
All Tugboat Patron benefits plus:
- Four single-use General Admission guest passes
- Invitations to private sunset sails
- Patron Concierge Service to book General Admission and sailing tickets
- Two tickets to behind-the-scenes Patron events including collection tours, private letterpress printing workshops, and more
$427 tax deductible

Schooner Patron
Two Adults | Single Year | $1,000
View Benefits
All Tugboat Patron benefits plus:
- Six single-use General Admission guest passes
- Invitations to private sunset sails
- Patron Concierge Service to book General Admission and sailing tickets
- Two tickets to behind-the-scenes Patron events including collection tours, private letterpress printing workshops, and more
- Two free sailing tickets
- 10% discount on private charters, workshops, and location rentals
$897 tax deductible

Tall Ship Patron
Two Adults | Single Year | $2,500
View Benefits
All Tugboat Patron benefits plus:
- Eight single-use General Admission guest passes
- Invitations to private sunset sails
- Patron Concierge Service to book General Admission and sailing tickets
- Four tickets to behind-the-scenes Patron events including collection tours, private letterpress printing workshops, and more
- Four free sailing tickets
- 10% discount on private charters, workshops, and location rentals
- A special welcome gift from Bowne & Co.
- Invitations to the Curatorial Breakfast with Museum leadership
$2,347 tax deductible
Captain’s Council
Elevate your support by joining the distinguished Captain’s Council—a circle of visionary members whose leadership and generous philanthropy further support the Museum to help preserve and share the extraordinary story of “Where New York Begins,” while gaining even greater access and exclusive experiences at the Museum.
For any questions regarding membership levels or benefits, please click below to contact the Membership Department


