Saturday and Sunday | 1pm, 2:30pm | Pier 16 | $15–$30
Please Note this is a Past Activity. Public Rides will Return in 2024.
The Seaport Museum’s 2023 Sailing Season ran from May through October. We look forward to experiencing new adventures with you on the water in New York Harbor in 2024. Check back for updates on the 2024 Sailing Season in Spring 2024.
To see the latest offerings and seasonal experiences at the Seaport Museum, visit our Programs and Events page.
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.
Sign up today to 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!
Tickets
$30 Adult
$25 Senior
$25 Student
$15 Youth (Ages 10–17)
General Admission to the Seaport Museum is included with your tickets; you may attend the Museum anytime from 11am–5pm on the day of your voyage.
Seaport Museum members receive 20% off on all sailing opportunities. Just sign when prompted at checkout to receive your discount.
Advance reservations are recommended.
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.
Schedules
1pm Ride
Check In Begins: 12pm
Check In Ends: 1pm
Board: 1:05pm
Depart: 1:15pm
Return: 2:30pm
2:30pm Ride
Check In Begins: 1:30pm
Check In Ends: 2:30pm
Board: 2:35pm
Depart: 2:45pm
Return: 4pm
Read the full FAQ for more details on sailing with the Seaport Museum.
Extend Your Visit
General Admission to the Seaport Museum is included in your ticket; you may attend the Museum anytime from 11am–5pm on the day of your voyage. General Admission includes access to all current exhibitions on view in the introduction gallery space at 12 Fulton Street and access to the 1885 tall ship Wavertree at Pier 16. Free timed tickets for a tour of the 1908 lightship Ambrose are available separately at no additional cost.
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 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.