Sail on the 1885 Schooner Pioneer - South Street Seaport Museum
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2026 Tickets Now Available | May–October | Pier 16 | $5–$70
Experience New York City like never before on a sail aboard the historic
1885 schooner
Pioneer
with the South Street Seaport Museum! From May through October, this exclusive opportunity offers you the chance to take in the breathtaking views of the Big Apple from the deck of a National Register-listed vessel.
As you set sail on this unforgettable journey, you’ll see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Lower Manhattan’s architectural treasures, Governors Island, Ellis Island, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned New Yorker or a first-time visitor, this adventure promises to be a truly unforgettable experience.
But that’s not all––as a guest on board, you’ll have the chance to get hands-on and help our knowledgeable crew raise a sail or simply sit back and relax as you soak up the stunning scenery. And, for the perfect
al fresco
dining experience, bring along your favorite meal or snack, along with your preferred beverages—even a bottle of wine—to sip on deck.
Check out the variety of 2026
Pioneer
sailing opportunities below, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard!
Give the gift of adventure aboard this one-of-a-kind schooner! Perfect for history buffs, maritime and sailing enthusiasts, romantics, or anyone who loves the water, a sail on the
1885 schooner
Pioneer
is an unforgettable way to experience New York City. The
Pioneer
sailing season runs from May through October, but you can reserve tickets or book a private charter now to give the promise of adventure all year long!
2026 Offerings to Sail on Pioneer:
Pioneer Daytime Sail
Join the South Street Seaport Museum for a thrilling daytime sail through New York Harbor aboard the 1885 schooner Pioneer.
Pioneer Sunset Sail
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, step aboard the beautifully restored 1885 schooner Pioneer and watch in awe as the city that never sleeps comes alive with a mesmerizing display of color and light.
Launch and Learn Sails
This incredible collection of thematic sails enhances the already fantastic daytime sailing experience at the South Street Seaport Museum with an array of fascinating events.
Charter a 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 private charters of the Museum’s historic vessels!
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. Read the full
On the Water with the Seaport Museum FAQ
for more details on the sailing experience.
Visit the FAQ
About the Schooner Pioneer
Pioneer
was built in Pennsylvania in 1885 to carry sand and heavy cargoes along the Delaware River. Unlike almost all American cargo sloops and schooners that were made of wood,
Pioneer
was constructed with a wrought iron hull because she was built in what was then the nation’s center for iron shipbuilding. Today, she is the sole American merchant sailing vessel with an iron hull. Through offering sails aboard
Pioneer
, the Seaport Museum provides an exceptional experience to the public, catering to inquisitive students, seasoned New Yorkers, and eager visitors alike. By offering unique opportunity to venture out onto the water, this remarkable vessel grants guests a new vantage point to see the city allowing guests to forge a deeper connection with New York’s maritime past and present, illustrating exactly “Where New York Begins.”
Explore the History of Pioneer
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
Learn About Charters
Get a Taste of Sailing on Pioneer
Education Programs on Pioneer
Sail New York Harbor aboard the historic 1885 schooner
Pioneer
. Students help raise sails, see the Statue of Liberty and other Harbor landmarks, observe a variety of ships and waterborne commerce, and engage in exciting hands-on activities.
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South Street Seaport Museum
12 Fulton Street
NY, NY 10038
(212) 748-8600
Open: Friday–Sunday, 11am–5pm
#SouthStreetSeaportMuseum
#WhereNewYorkBegins
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