Returning in 2025
Be One of the First to Know
Join the Seaport Museum mailing list to be among the first to learn about new on-the-water experiences added throughout the season. This includes Launch and Learn sails, additional timely sails for seasonal events, and the schedule for excursions on the historic 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker.
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure on the last surviving New York-built wooden tugboat W.O. Decker, named “Tugboat of the Year” by the prestigious Steamship Historical Society of America! This 75-minute ride promises to be an unforgettable experience, as you explore the iconic New York Harbor and take in stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Battery, and Governors Island.
As you ride on this historic vessel, you’ll feel the thrill of adventure and the excitement of discovering New York City from a whole new vantage point. And, as the only surviving example of its kind that invites you aboard, W.O. Decker offers an immersive opportunity to step back in time and experience a unique age of seafaring.
Embark on a thrilling journey aboard W.O. Decker. This experience is particularly popular with tweens, teens, and boat enthusiasts! Book your 75-minute ride today and get ready to see New York City in a whole new way!
Seaport Museum members receive 20% off on all sailing opportunities. Just sign in when prompted at checkout to receive your discount.
Advance reservations are recommended. Passengers must be ages 10 and up.
Know Before You Go
Tour routes are subject to change due to unpredictable boat traffic in the Harbor and weather, though captains will do their best to include the sites listed. W.O. Decker can accommodate children ages 10 and up; if you are looking for an experience on the water with younger children, check out the Museum’s options to sail on the 1885 schooner Pioneer.
Read the full On the Water with the Seaport Museum FAQ for more details on the sailing experience.
Enjoy More That the Museum Offers
Admission to the 1885 tall ship Wavertree and access to exhibitions on view in the introduction galleries inside Schermerhorn Row are included with your tickets; you may visit any time from 11am–5pm on the day of your ride.
Timed Pay What You Wish tickets to view the three-floor exhibition Maritime City and tours of the 1908 lightship Ambrose are available separately. To extend your visit and see more that the Museum has to offer, ask Museum staff about our daily offerings when you check in.
About the Tugboat W.O. Decker
W.O. Decker was built in Long Island City, Queens, in 1930 for the Newtown Creek Towing Company. She is an exemplary model of the types of tugs that were once an abundant sight in New York Harbor. Now the last surviving New York-built wooden tugboat, W.O. Decker is a testament to New York City’s maritime and industrial history, which are direct factors in the city’s global prominence today.
Charter This Historic Vessel
Looking for a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate a special occasion with friends and family or impress your clients with an exciting corporate outing? Look no further than the Seaport Museum’s private charters on the historic 1885 schooner Pioneer and the 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker.
Get a Taste of Riding on W.O. Decker
2018 Restoration
In 2018, our beloved tug W.O. Decker underwent a thorough overhaul and returned to the South Street Seaport Museum gloriously restored, thanks to public, private, and volunteer support. In 2019, W.O. Decker participated in the “Great North River Tugboat Race” and the Waterfront Alliance “Heroes of the Harbor Parade of Boats.” W.O. Decker once again serves as an educational and public sail platform.
Education Programs on W.O. Decker
W.O. Decker is available for educational programs middle school high school university, smaller groups, especially good for marine science studies or and getting close to various habitats and the working waterfront.