Seattle has had a long and significant relationship with water. The maritime and waterfront activities associated with the region’s lakes, the Puget Sound, and Pacific Ocean have ultimately shaped what Seattle has become.
Maritime Seattle continues the 50+ year partnership between MOHAI and the Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society (PSMHS). Hosted in the historic bridge room of the Naval Reserve Building, the McCurdy Family Maritime Gallery features stunning views of Lake Union and its bustling world of boats, planes, paddlers, and wildlife. These modern activities are juxtaposed alongside engaging artifacts such as a working WWII-era Tang periscope with 360° views of the city, as well as an 1885 Fresnel Lens from the Smith Island Lighthouse.
Discover what life was like on a working waterfront in the past, and how that has changed through the years. Then test out the real, working ship’s wheel!
Exhibit Details
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Recommended Audiences
Educators
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Automated facility entry
Elevator available
Pacific Northwest Maritime Destinations
Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society
Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society (PSMHS) set sail in 1948, has been an active participant in the region’s maritime community ever since, and has partnered with MOHAI for over 50 years.
The Society maintains a collection of ship models and other maritime artifacts, as well as historic photos, ship’s plans, and books.
The Center for Wooden Boats
The Center for Wooden Boats is where maritime history comes alive through direct experiences, and small craft heritage is enjoyed, preserved, and passed along to future generations.
The Center has over 100 historically significant boats.
Lake Union Park
Close to downtown Seattle, Lake Union Park sits on a historic waterfront and is managed by the city of Seattle.
Enjoy splashing in a fountain or seafaring activities like kayaking, paddle-boarding, swimming, or watching the goings-on of Lake Union.
Lake Washington Ship Canal
The Lake Washington Ship Canal and Hiram M. Chittenten Locks—more commonly referred to as the Ballard Locks—were officially completed in 1934 and connected Lake Union, Salmon Bay, and Lake Washington.
The Canal changed the way residents and industries operated in Seattle.
Northwest Seaport
Northwest Seaport is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of the maritime heritage of Puget Sound and the Pacific Northwest.
The Seaport’s floating fleet moored Seattle’s Lake Union Park, as well as an extensive archival collection on its vessels and Northwest maritime history.
Virginia V
The SS Virginia V is a National Historic Landmark and a treasure of Seattle’s maritime history. The steamer was originally part of the Puget Sound Mosquito Fleet and connected coastal towns around South Puget Sound.
Today, the ship is the last operational example of a Puget Sound Mosquito Fleet steamer, and is moored at Lake Union.
Maritime Seattle was co-curated with Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society
Plan a Visit to MOHAI
MOHAI is respected nationally and treasured locally as a dynamic, innovative museum where historical exploration inspires people to create a better future for themselves and their communities.
Plan your visit today by reviewing ticketing options, location and parking details, and helpful visitor tips.