Ships, Lights, and Sights
2025 Maritime Preservation Series
Massachusetts is home to a rich and vibrant maritime heritage, carefully preserved by dedicated organizations and coastal communities. This summer, explore that legacy through a tour of historic sites, ships, and lighthouses set in some of the state's most stunning coastal locations. Presented in partnership with museums, institutions, and Preservation Massachusetts, this program series highlights the vital preservation efforts that safeguard our maritime history—work that deepens our understanding of the Commonwealth’s coastal culture, traditions, and historic landmarks. Members receive discounts on admission and registration! Not a member? Join today!
SEPTEMBER 12, 2025
Mayflower II Restoration Tour
Step aboard Mayflower II and experience history through the eyes of those who sail and care for her. Led by Captain Whit Perry, Plimoth Patuxet's Kenneth Shaw Safe Jr, Director, Maritime Preservation and Operations, and members of the ship’s crew, this exclusive tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic vessel—a reproduction of the ship that carried the Pilgrims in 1620. Following her restoration and return to Plymouth in 2020, she was added to the National Register of Historic Places, illuminating that she is a historic ship in her own right.
Explore the ship as Captain Perry and crew share stories of her voyages, fascinating nautical details, and insights into life aboard a 17th-century vessel. Learn about the extensive restoration work and the meticulous ongoing preservation efforts that keep Mayflower II seaworthy and authentic for generations to come.
From the craftsmanship of her rigging to the art of maintaining a historic wooden ship in modern waters, this immersive experience blends maritime history, hands-on knowledge, and the passion of the people dedicated to her care.
75 Water Street, Plymouth, MA 02360
AUGUST 24, 2025
Baker's Island Boat Tour
Join Essex Heritage for a thrilling boat tour to Bakers Island Lighthouse, where you'll explore the stunning lighthouse and soak up the scenery. On August 24th, preservation mason Matt Holland will accompany the boat tour and discuss the restoration work he has recently done to the three historic brick chimneys on the 1857 Keeper's House and the 1875 Assistant Keeper's House.
Pre-registration required, special rate for PM members! www.bakersislandlight.org
10 Blaney Street, Salem MA 01970
AUGUST 15, 2025
Scituate Lighthouse
Make your way to Scituate Lighthouse to meet preservation experts for a tour and discussion about the recent restorations of the historic Lantern Room. Constructed in 1811, Scituate Light was the 5th light station built in New England and recently received a preservation award from Preservation Massachusetts for the outstanding work done to keep this lighthouse shining for years to come.
Free, pre-registration required. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
100 Lighthouse Rd, Scituate, MA 02066
AUGUST 7, 2025
Gay Head Lighthouse in Aquinnah
Celebrate National Lighthouse Day in style, by stopping by the Gay Head Lighthouse for a chance to see the recently restored Lantern Room. The Gay Head Lighthouse, endearingly nicknamed the “Red Queen”, was constructed in 1856 and is the oldest of the 5 lighthouses on Martha’s Vineyard. Chat with history-loving lighthouse docents as you take in the salty air and the magnificent views. For more information visit www.gayheadlight.org and www.mvmuseum.org
15 Aquinnah Circle, Aquinnah, MA 02535