Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum: Visitor's Guide & Tips 2026

You might think you need to be a die-hard sailor to enjoy a maritime museum, but the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah proves otherwise. Located within the stunning William Scarbrough House, this isn't just a collection of boats; it is a deep dive into the 18th and 19th-century history that shaped Georgia. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape from the heat, interested in stunning architecture, or searching for the perfect wedding venue, this spot offers a unique blend of art, history, and botany.

• Quick Visitor Info Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
• Best for: History buffs, couples, architecture lovers
• Accessibility: Limited (Stairs required for upper floors)
• Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed inside
• Parking: Free lot available (but tricky to find)

A Historic Gem: The William Scarbrough House

Before you even look at a single ship model, the building itself demands your attention. Built in 1819 for William Scarbrough, one of the principal owners of the Steamship Savannah, this house is a masterpiece of Greek Revival architecture. It has lived many lives, from a private residence to a school for Black children during the late 19th century, before becoming the museum you see today.

When you walk through the entrance, take a moment to admire the atrium. The natural light here is fantastic, but keep in mind that the exhibit rooms are kept intentionally dim to preserve the delicate artifacts.

Pro Tip: If you have trouble reading the placards in the low light, feel free to use your phone's flashlight or ask the front desk; they sometimes have small lights available for loan.

The Exhibits: Masterpieces in Miniature

The core of the museum is its collection of ship models. But let's be clear, these are not the toy boats you might expect. These are museum-quality, large-scale models commissioned by master craftsmen like William E. Hitchcock and Joseph Gallettini. The attention to detail is staggering. You can see everything from the tiny rigging lines to the individual planks on the decks.

The Titanic and SS Savannah

One of the crowd favorites is the Titanic exhibit. It features a detailed model and artifacts that tell the story of the ship's construction and tragedy. Equally impressive is the model of the SS Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Since the museum is housed in the home of the ship's owner, this exhibit feels particularly special.

You will also find a fascinating collection of nautical instruments, scrimshaw, and even an exhibit on maritime tattoos that explains the history behind the ink sailors wore. It is a great way to understand the personal lives of the people who worked these ships.

The Largest Garden in Historic Savannah

Surprisingly, one of the best parts of this museum is outside. The Ships of the Sea Museum boasts the largest private garden in the historic district. It is an absolute oasis. If you visit in the spring or early summer, the greenery is vibrant and provides a perfect backdrop for photos.

This area is frequently used as a wedding venue, and it is easy to see why. The brick pathways, fountains, and covered pavilion create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Even if you aren't attending an event, you are welcome to wander the grounds as part of your museum admission. It is a quiet, contemplative space that feels miles away from the busy streets of Savannah.

Note on Restrooms: The restrooms are located outside in the garden area. While they are clean, be prepared for a short walk from the main house.

The lush garden pathways and pavilion at Ships of the Sea, often used for weddings and events.

Visitor Tips: Tickets, Parking & Accessibility

Visiting Savannah often involves a struggle for parking, but this museum offers a rare perk: a free parking lot. However, it can be tricky.

Navigation Warning: GPS devices often get confused by the address. The entrance to the parking lot is small and easy to miss. If the lot is full, which happens during events, you will need to find street parking or a nearby garage.

Accessibility: Because this is a historic home, it does not have an elevator. The museum spans three floors, so you must be comfortable climbing stairs to see the full collection. If you have mobility issues, you can still enjoy the gardens and the first floor, but you will miss the upper exhibits.

For Families: While the models are fascinating, this museum is generally better suited for adults, teens, and older children. There are no interactive play areas for toddlers, and the look but don't touch policy is strict to protect the models. If you have teenagers interested in history or engineering, they will likely love it.

Is It Worth the Visit?

If you appreciate craftsmanship, history, or just need a break from the humidity, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is absolutely worth the affordable admission price. It is a self-guided experience, so you can move at your own pace. Most visitors spend about an hour indoors and another 30 minutes enjoying the gardens.

The gift shop is also a hidden gem. Unlike many tourist traps, it offers quality maritime-themed items and books at reasonable prices. The staff here are incredibly knowledgeable—don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with them about the house's history; they often share stories that aren't on the plaques.