Tugboat W.O. Decker and Schooner Pioneer Welcome Guests at Pier 16
New York’s last surviving wooden tugboat, W.O. Decker, was launched in Queens in 1930 for the Newtown Creek Towing Company. Today, the jaunty little vessel is part of the South Street Seaport Museum’s fleet, and is one of two historic boats based at Pier 16 on the East River to offer sailing adventures in New York Harbor throughout the summer.
The other is the 1885 schooner Pioneer, a two-masted sailboat that once carried sand and other heavy cargo on the Delaware River. Dedicated to recreating the 19th-century sailing experience for the public today, Pioneer has a full schedule of public sails, school group excursions, and volunteer training.
Both immersive experiences, W.O. Decker and Pioneer are unique links to New York City’s maritime past. On the tug, guests will clamber across coiled lines and can perch on a H-bitt. On the schooner, some guests will be able to help the crew raise the sails; others will enjoy the view while sipping wine.
South Street Seaport Museum’s 2025 sailing season has begun, with tickets available for rides aboard the W.O. Decker and Pioneer. Both may be chartered for private sails.