Volunteer Sharon with park visitors on the north side of the whaling museum

Walking Tour: Women on Whaleships

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

  • Every week on Thursday at 2:30 PM from May 21, 2026 to October 11, 2026
  • Free

Explore the experiences of women on whaleships and discover how they contributed to life aboard nineteenth-century whaling voyages. Through journals, firsthand accounts, and historical records, learn how women managed shipboard responsibilities, assisted with navigation, served in medical roles, and connected with communities building relationships with other whaling families around the world.

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

Walking Tours begin at the Visitor Center. A ranger or volunteer will meet visitors either inside the Visitor Center or Outside in the Visitor Center Garden before the tour begins. The main entrance is located at the top of the front steps on William Street. An accessible ramp entrance is available on the right side of the building through the Visitor Center Garden.

Schedule

Days:

Every week on Thursday

Dates:

May 21, 2026 to October 11, 2026

Time:

2:30 PM

Duration:

1 hour

Walking Tours begin promptly at 2:30 PM. Please arrive a few minutes early to meet your ranger or volunteer before the tour departs. Comfortable walking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Event Type

  • Guided Tour
  • Walk
Tags: new bedford whaling national historical park, women on whaleships, walking tour