The WHC - From Start to Present
The WHC's first activity was a celebration of National Maritime Day in May of 2002. With the help of NY Waterway, the area's largest ferry operation, the first event, although hampered by inclement weather, was a definitive success. Free ferry service linked several key locations with on-board narration by knowledgeable guides. The organization's first HarborGuide, highlighting Working Harbor Vessels, was published that year as well. In spite of low turnout and some venue issues, all involved decided that the venture was worthwhile and resolved to continue.
In 2003 the idea of providing "Hidden Harbor Tours ®" was hatched and in May of 2003 almost 1,000 people attended our event at Manhattan's Pier 11. The second HarborGuide, which focused on Harbor Places, was published. Our event was supported by fundraising efforst as well as a generous amount in in-kind donations from companies such as Circle Line, Spirit Cruises, NY Water Taxi, Affairs Afloat and PhotoShips.
In 2004, the event was moved to the Hudson River's Pier 63 Maritime, itself a hidden treasure of historic vessels berthed at a converted car float (railroad barge) at the west end of 23rd Street in Manhattan. With excellent water access and accommodations such as a full-service bar and grill, over 2,500 people attended and toured the harbor on four vessels. The third annual HarborGuide, on Harbor People, plus musical entertainment and exhibits made it a memorable event. A follow-on event was produced on the 4th of July adding another 1,000 rides. The group started membership, appeared at a donated booth in the New York Boat Show and hosted its first spring fundraiser reception.
In 2005 the May event was repeated with equal success. The fourth HarborGuide focused on The Harbor Today. A special promotion with Channel 13 helped drive the attendance. Web reservations were accepted for the first time and membership has grown to over 200. A summer series of Summer Hidden Harbor Tours® (the name now registered) added almost 1,500 new rides - with one tour funded by prior tour profits and offered free to children of low-income families. The group hired its second part-time staff member to oversee both programs and fund-raising. Effective September 2005, the WHC is an independent not-for-profit educational organization called The Working Harbor Committee, Inc.
Future plans call
for presenting an expanded series of tours with new destinations, a
virtual Hidden Harbor Tour on the web, continuing publications and selected
year-round events.
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What we do
American Princess participates in Working Harbor Day
Crowds at Working Harbor Day at Pier 63 Maritime
