Do you love exploring museums and experiencing history firsthand? Then, there’s a place in Mystic, CT, you cannot miss during your visit! The Mystic Seaport is known as the country’s oldest maritime museum and draws countless visitors every year with its fascinating features. One of the most intriguing exhibits here is the Charles W Morgan, America’s oldest commercial ship that is still afloat today! This magnificent ship set sail for over 200 years and is a National Historic Landmark and today, you can be a part of our history as you step aboard! Take a look at this captivating piece of history and start making plans for your exciting New England getaway! Be prepared when you come visit and download our free Vacation Guide. This amazing planning tool will help you save time researching the best local restaurants, museums, shops, events, outdoor adventures, and more!
Travel Back in Time Aboard the Charles W Morgan!
The Charles W Morgan History
Seeing the Charles W Morgan in person is impressive and makes you feel like you stepped right back in time. This colossal whaling ship embarked on her first journey back in 1841. The Charles W Morgan navigated 37 different voyages and braved the tempestuous seas, even surviving dangerous hazards like storms, unfriendly natives, and even Arctic ice! After 80 years of service, the ship retired from her whaling trips in the early 1920s and was put on display in Dartmouth for approximately 20 years before it was transferred to Mystic Seaport. This ship is the perfect way to learn about our country’s maritime history firsthand.
The Restoration
The Charles W Morgan wasn’t in great shape after all these years of sailing, and when the Mystic Seaport acquired it, it became evident that a restoration was necessary. Steps for preservation began in 1968. After years of work, the ship was finally ready to function again, and in 2013, the new and improved Charles W Morgan set out on her 38th voyage to visit other New England seaports. She returned about a year later and now lives at the Mystic Seaport again to entertain and educate visitors.
Your Experience Aboard the Charles W Morgan
Now it’s your turn to experience this magnificent ship first-hand! Climb aboard and walk around to learn how this ship was such a successful whaling vessel. You can also take a cruise around the Mystic River to see the ship in action! Better yet, help steer a ship! This might be a great activity if you’re traveling with little ones. After your trip on the Charles W Morgan, hop on the Joseph Conrad training vessel from the 1800s for another fabulous, interactive, and hands-on sailing experience!
Are You Dreaming of a Picturesque Getaway in Connecticut?
If you need a relaxing and authentic adventure, then venture to the quaint town of Mystic! Our charming town neighbor is home to numerous attractions, and you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable trip sightseeing in this area. Enjoy your vacation to the fullest by staying in the best lodging possible while you’re here: Stonecroft Country Inn! Our high-end bed and breakfast offers all the comfort and relaxation you seek. Settle down in our cozy inn, surrounded by the picturesque scenery of New England, to appreciate our many features, like our crackling fireplace and homemade breakfast! Our accommodations combined with our fabulous amenities will make you fall in love at first sight! Take a look at Buttery Room, for example. It’s one of our most historic rooms with gunstock beam ceilings, original doors, and a white iron and brass queen bed. Rest your muscles in a hot bath in your private bathroom, cozy up on the terrace with a cup of hot cocoa, and fall asleep to the soothing silence of the countryside.
