Michigan Maritime Museum
Hop aboard history in South Haven!
From hands-on exhibits on an authentic waterfront campus to immersive experiences aboard a fleet of historic and replica vessels, the Michigan Maritime Museum offers engaging opportunities for every Great Lakes enthusiast.
Recognized as one of the Great Lakes’ premier destinations for exploring freshwater maritime heritage, the Museum is a must-visit stop in South Haven’s Maritime District. Visitors can dive into exhibits, events, and on-water adventures that bring the region’s rich history to life.
What Visitors Can Expect
Immersive Exhibits – Explore five buildings featuring permanent and rotating displays on shipwrecks, commerce, fishing, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Watch traditional craftsmanship in action at the working boatbuilding shop.
Historic Vessels – Step aboard a fleet of replicas and vintage craft, each telling its own story. From tall ships to river launches, every excursion doubles as a living history lesson.
Waterfront Atmosphere – Stroll the boardwalk, relax on the docks, or simply take in harbor views in one of West Michigan’s most picturesque shoreline communities.
Signature On-Water Experiences
Tall Ship Friends Good Will – Sail on a replica 1810 topsail sloop once tied to the fur trade and War of 1812. Options include day sails, sunset cruises, and family-friendly Adventure Sails.
River Launch Lindy Lou – Cruise the Black River aboard an electric-powered replica of the launches that ferried vacationers to South Haven resorts in the late 1800s.
USCG Motor Lifeboat 36460 – Built in 1941 and featured in Disney’s The Finest Hours, this legendary rescue vessel remains one of the Coast Guard’s most iconic designs.
Chris-Craft Merry Time – Experience vintage luxury aboard a 1929 wooden runabout, a glamorous reminder of the Roaring Twenties.
Annual Events at the Museum
The Michigan Maritime Museum hosts a variety of engaging events throughout the year that connect visitors with Great Lakes history, from the Blessing of the Fleet to kick off the sailing season, to Fish Fry Fundraisers that pair tradition with support for the Museum. Rock the Boat offers a lively evening of music and lakefront atmosphere, while educational programs during Spring Break and summer bring maritime heritage to life for families and kids. The Lecture Series features experts and historians sharing insights on shipwrecks and maritime culture, and festive holiday events round out the calendar with seasonal waterfront celebrations.
View Upcoming events at The Michigan Maritime Museum here!
A Fun, Immersive Stop in South Haven
The Michigan Maritime Museum is a fun, interactive, and educational experience that makes history come alive. Perfect for families and Great Lakes enthusiasts alike, the Museum blends hands-on exhibits with unforgettable on-water adventures. Visitors can also shop for unique maritime-themed merchandise found only at the Museum, making it easy to bring a piece of the Great Lakes home.
Adding the Museum to your South Haven itinerary pairs perfectly with exploring the city’s sandy beaches, scenic public parks, and preserved natural areas—creating a well-rounded day of history, leisure, and outdoor beauty.
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