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Seattle, Washington / History

Steamer Virginia V

A National Historic Landmark and the last operational Puget Sound Mosquito Fleet steamer, this 103-year-old steam-powered wooden ship is a living piece of Seattle's maritime history.

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What is the Steamer Virginia V known for?

The Steamer Virginia V is a National Historic Landmark and a treasure of Seattle's maritime history. It is the last operational example of a Puget Sound Mosquito Fleet steamer.

What are the hours for visiting?

Open ship hours are Thursday through Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.

Where is it located?

The ship is docked at the Historic Ships Wharf at Lake Union Park in Seattle's South Lake Union area, behind MOHAI and the Center for Wooden Boats. The best street address is 860 Terry Ave.

Can I book a private event or charter?

Yes, the ship is available for private charters and events such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, office gatherings, and holiday festivities. For casual events in good weather, it can accommodate a maximum of 140 passengers, including vendors.

What is the history of the ship?

Built of local old-growth fir, the steam-powered wooden ship was launched on March 9, 1922. It has operated on Puget Sound since its launch and is a wooden-hulled screw steamer measuring 115.9 feet long.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Steamer Virginia V is a National Historic Landmark and a treasure of Seattle's maritime history. Launched on March 9, 1922, the ship was constructed from local old-growth fir, a material that has helped her survive for over a century. This wooden-hulled screw steamer measures 115.9 feet long with a 24.1-foot beam and a 9-foot depth of hold, providing a stable platform for her continued operation on the waters of Puget Sound. As the last operational example of a Puget Sound Mosquito Fleet steamer, the Virginia V represents a vital era of maritime transport. The ship is now managed by the Virginia V Foundation, which maintains her as a living, working piece of local history. This ensures that the ship remains active rather than than a static museum piece, allowing the public to experience the steam-powered propulsion up close. Today, the ship is docked on the south shore of Lake Union, specifically at the Historic Ships Wharf at Lake Union Park. She is located behind the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) and the historic Carroll's Jewelers clock. Visitors can explore the ship during open ship hours, which are Thursday through Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm. Beyond her historical significance, the Virginia V is a versatile venue for private charters, including weddings, holiday festivities, and office gatherings. For casual events in good weather, the ship can accommodate up to 140 passengers, including vendors, making her a unique choice for celebrations in the heart of South Lake Union.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during open ship hours, Thursday through Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm, to explore the interior.
  • Use 860 Terry Ave. as your best street address for navigation to the Historic Ships Wharf.
  • Check the foundation's calendar for public cruises and private charter opportunities.

Nearby context

The Virginia V is docked at Lake Union Park, positioned behind the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) and the Center for Wooden Boats, placing her in a vibrant maritime heritage same area of South Lake Union.

Sources

Evidence and links