Vessels

Historic vessels. Living stories. Experiences on the water.

The WaterFront Center’s vessels connect visitors to Oyster Bay Harbor through history, education, and unforgettable time on the water. From public cruises to private experiences, CHRISTEEN and IDA MAY help bring the harbor to life.

A defining part of the mission

More than boats

  • They create meaningful ways for people to connect with Oyster Bay Harbor.
  • They help tell the story of Long Island’s maritime heritage.
  • They support education, recreation, and community access to the water.

Meet the fleet

Two vessels with distinct stories

Use this section to give each vessel its own identity while still connecting both to The WaterFront Center’s broader mission.

National Historic Landmark

CHRISTEEN

Position CHRISTEEN as an iconic Oyster Bay experience rooted in local maritime history, public sails, and educational storytelling. This vessel can serve as a lead emotional connection point for visitors who want a classic harbor experience.

Historic Working Harbor Story

IDA MAY

Position IDA MAY as a powerful link to Oyster Bay’s working waterfront, aquaculture history, and hands on interpretation. This vessel can feel especially strong for visitors interested in history, heritage, and educational experiences.

Mission and meaning

Why these vessels matter

This is where the page becomes more than a list of boats. It should clearly connect the vessels to education, preservation, and access.

Preservation

These vessels help preserve and share the maritime story of Oyster Bay for future generations.

Education

They create memorable, place based learning experiences that connect people directly to the harbor.

Experience

They turn history into something active, visible, and deeply felt through time on the water.

Community Access

They support The WaterFront Center’s mission of connecting people to the water through education and recreation.

Ways to connect

Experience the vessels

This section should help a visitor quickly identify how they can get aboard or engage with the story.

Public

Public Cruises

Direct visitors to harbor tours, sunset style experiences, and seasonal public opportunities on the water.

Explore Public Cruises
Private

Private Experiences

Invite guests, families, and groups to explore private charter style vessel experiences with a more personal feel.

Explore Private Experiences
Educational

Educational Use

Connect schools, youth groups, and community partners to vessel based learning opportunities.

Explore Educational Programs
Custom

Special Events

Use this as a flexible entry point for custom programs, community events, storytelling events, and mission aligned gatherings.

Plan a Custom Experience

Support the future of these vessels

Preservation is part of the experience

This is a strong place to connect vessel storytelling to stewardship, sponsorship, and support for The WaterFront Center’s mission. A visitor who falls in love with the vessels should have an easy path to help sustain them.