Solar Eclipse Viewing at the Lilac

Explore America’s oldest lighthouse tender, the steam-powered Coast Guard Cutter Lilac, and watch the solar eclipse!

Tour the historic 91 year old vessel with Captain Mary Habstritt, Museum Director of the Lilac Preservation Project. Watch as the moon covers 90% of the sun from a prime waterfront location
Bring your own lunch to enjoy on the open deck, mingle with fellow eclipse viewers and Lilac volunteers and get free eclipse glasses to safely view this celestial phenomenon.

About the Event

Tour America’s oldest lighthouse tender, the steam-powered Coast Guard Cutter Lilac with Captain Mary who will regale us with the ship’s 91 years of service and show us through spaces not normally part of public tours. By the end, you will know something about the Aids to Navigation system that keeps ships safe and about the job of buoy tending.

After the roughly 1 hour tour, join fellow Insiders and Lilac volunteers to view the solar eclipse with your free eclipse glasses! The eclipse will reach its peak in New York City at 90% obscurity at 3:25 PM. Insiders are welcome to bring snacks or picnic lunch to enjoy on the deck. Chairs will be provided by the Lilac crew, but please provide your own utensils, napkins, and anything else you need to enjoy your food. Please be sure to bring out everything you bring in and note that there is no running water on the boat.

Things to Note

• Composting toilets are available on board and public restrooms on the pier are open.
• Bring your own water bottle as it is still early spring and the water on board and at drinking fountains on the pier is turned off.
• The historic nature of the ship means there are steep stairs and other trip hazards that make it difficult for visitors with mobility impairments. Wear comfortable flat shoes and clothing that you can wear to climb a ladder.
• Lilac is undergoing restoration so you may encounter work in progress.
• All visitors must follow instructions of the crew for a safe visit.
• Dress for the weather as viewing will be on an open deck.
• Smoking is not allowed on board or in Hudson River Park.