Bring the class to gain a hands-on look at maritime history at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, New York. The museum provides one of the largest collections of antique and classic boats in North America. It provides an engaging environment where students can explore how boats were built, used, and restored. Educational programs and guided tours connect science, history, and technology, allowing students to learn about buoyancy, design, and life on the St. Lawrence River. Interactive exhibits and the opportunity to go on a real boat ride make learning come alive, making the museum fun and educational for students of all ages. Everyone will indulge in the rich history and significance of these maritime exhibits and activities.
The Antique Boat Museum offers a variety of group tour options for an enriching experience, whether you choose a guided or self-guided tour. Groups can explore the museum’s campus and exhibit buildings independently or opt for a guided tour led by an expert docent, who will share their knowledge and history about the museum and the 1000 Islands region. For an even deeper experience, groups can add a tour of La Duchesse, a historic boat, which is a limited experience, so grab it fast! Groups are encouraged to plan at least 1.5-2 hours for their visit, with extra time if touring La Duchesse. Reservations go fast with these experiences, so educators must know how to secure their classroom’s spot fast.
The Antique Boat Museum offers a hands-on, interactive experience that turns learning about history and boating into an exciting adventure! Students can dive into boatbuilding workshops to explore restoration techniques and craftsmanship. They can also try the boating simulator for an exhilarating experience on the water. Stepping aboard La Duchesse, a glamorous 1920s yacht, students will discover its fascinating history through engaging storytelling. In the River Room, they’ll explore the unique ecology and rich history of the 1000 Islands region. Plus, with artifact handling stations, students can get up close with maritime treasures and learn about the past in a truly interactive way. These exciting, engaging experiences are a perfect way for students to connect with the region’s boating heritage while having a blast.
The Antique Boat Museum’s Homer L. Dodge Lecture Series offers engaging talks throughout the year focusing on local history and boating life. These lectures are held hybrid-like, allowing students and educators to join in person at the museum or via a YouTube live stream. The series covers various topics, starting with the lecture Ice Yachting Since Its Beginnings in the Hudson River Valley by Robert Willis. Willis, President of the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust, will explore the evolution of ice yachts from their origins as cargo carriers to becoming the fastest vehicles on Earth.
Explore these great sea inventions and gain oceanic knowledge with a field trip to the museum. Students will leave with a deeper appreciation of the marine life and what travels through it.
