May 17 | 2–4pm | Wavertree | Starting at $1
The annual NYC Poets Afloat group poetry reading returns aboard the 1885 tall ship Wavertree. Poets have been invited to participate in micro-residencies aboard ships in New York Harbor, where they have been inspired to write and create poetry while being surrounded by the city’s bustling waters. Now, these poets will gather on the deck of Wavertree for a group reading, sharing their creative works with the audience.
Online registration begins at $1. Tickets will be free in-person the day of the event. Proceeds are split between the participating vessels. Preregistration is encouraged for this event. Walkups will be accommodated as possible. Tickets will be distributed through Poets Afloat. Visit their page below to get all the details and sign up. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of poetry on the high seas!
Access to Wavertree involves climbing a few stairs, walking up an angled gangway, and descending a few stairs onto the deck. The lower decks are accessible via stairs, while the upper deck requires navigating steep ladder-like stairs.
Enjoy More That the Museum Offers
Access to the 1885 tall ship Wavertree at Pier 16 is included with your ticket to this event. Access to the additional historic ships and exhibitions on view is not included. If you would like to explore more that the Museum has to offer, book in advance or ask Museum staff about General Admission tickets when you check in.
General Admission is available Friday through Sunday, from 11am to 5pm and brings you aboard the 1885 tall ship Wavertree and 1908 lightship Ambrose at Pier 16, and into all current exhibitions on view in the first-floor Schermerhorn Row galleries at 12 Fulton Street. Your ticket also sets you on course to explore Maritime City, the Seaport Museum’s immersive, three-floor exhibition at A.A. Thomson & Co., located at 213 Water Street.

Tall Ship Wavertree
Wavertree, built in 1885 was operated for many years as a cargo ship sailing around the world.

