National Maritime Day

Categories:: Federal
Tags:: Civic Historical Military
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every May 22
Holiday emoji:: 🚢

National Maritime Day recognizes the vital contributions of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the broader maritime industry every May 22. This day commemorates the first steam-powered transoceanic voyage and celebrates the brave men and women who ensure global commerce and national security. Honor their service, learn about maritime history, and support those who work at sea.

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FAQs
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Observe

Expected National Maritime Day Deals

As a day of national recognition, National Maritime Day doesn’t typically feature widespread commercial deals, but rather focuses on appreciation and support for maritime professionals. Organizations like the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the Navy League of the United States often host events and fundraisers. Maritime-focused retailers such as West Marine or Defender Marine might offer special discounts to active and retired mariners. Businesses like TOTE Maritime and Matson Navigation Company could highlight their employees’ dedication through internal programs. Additionally, many port cities and maritime museums, like the Mariners’ Museum and Park, offer free admission or special exhibits. We will update this page with confirmed live programs as May 22 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Maritime Day

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalMaritimeDay. Share stories of maritime professionals and their impact on global trade.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalMaritimeDay. Join conversations about maritime history, current industry challenges, and the importance of the Merchant Marine.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalMaritimeDay. Post photos of ships, ports, or maritime workers, and thank them for their service.

National Maritime Day Hero

Captain Moses Rogers

Captain Moses Rogers (1779–1821) was an American master mariner who commanded the S.S. Savannah on its historic transatlantic voyage in 1819. This journey marked the first time a steamship crossed the Atlantic, though it used sails for much of the trip. His pioneering spirit helped usher in the age of steam navigation, fundamentally changing maritime travel and trade.

National Maritime Day timeline

May 20, 1933

Declaration

Congress declares May 22 as National Maritime Day.

April 5, 1964

First Celebration

The National Maritime Day is celebrated for the first time.

2006

Full-Force Promotion

The Maritime Administration joins forces with all entities and bodies involved in the maritime sector to create awareness of National Maritime Day and the industry as a whole.

2020

Theme of the Year

The theme selected for World Maritime Day is ‘Sustainable shipping for a sustainable planet.’

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Maritime Day

Local businesses, especially those in port cities or coastal communities, can honor National Maritime Day by recognizing employees who have served in the Merchant Marine or related industries. Restaurants might offer discounts to maritime professionals with valid ID, while maritime supply stores could host appreciation events. Companies involved in shipping and logistics can use the day to educate the public about the critical role of their industry in the global supply chain, perhaps through social media campaigns or local school outreach. Consider partnering with a maritime charity for a donation drive.

National Maritime Day FAQs

When is National Maritime Day?

In 2027, National Maritime Day will be observed on Saturday, May 22, providing a weekend opportunity for communities to celebrate maritime heritage and the contributions of seafarers.

How many Americans work in the maritime industry?

Annually, the American maritime industry contributes substantially to the economy, with hundreds of thousands of individuals employed in vital roles. This includes approximately 40,000 active U.S. Merchant Mariners, ensuring the flow of goods and services.

What is the economic impact of the U.S. maritime industry?

With a total economic impact exceeding $150 billion each year, the maritime sector is a cornerstone of the U.S. economy. It underpins critical supply chains, enabling the movement of goods and supporting countless related industries nationwide.

What is the difference between the Merchant Marine and the Navy?

While both are vital to national security, the Merchant Marine primarily serves commercial purposes, operating under civilian command. The Navy, conversely, is a military force dedicated to naval warfare and defense, operating under military command.

How to Observe National Maritime Day

Adopt a ship
K-12 teachers can contact the U.S. Propeller Club to find out how their classroom can adopt a ship. That ship’s crew will correspond with the class throughout the year. Students can explore a variety of topics, including geography, history, math, science, transportation, and foreign and domestic trade, through the lens of life aboard a Merchant Marine ship.
Attend a commemorative service
If you live within striking distance of a port city, chances are you’ll be able to attend a memorial service or other commemorative event. Bring a picnic and enjoy the soft sea breezes as you learn about the importance of the maritime industry to our nation. You may even be able to tour a ship or speak to people who have served aboard one.
Visit a museum
Head to Kings Point, N.Y. to visit the American Merchant Marine Museum, which offers displays related to all things maritime — including the history of the Merchant Marine program, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the proud heritage of seafaring Americans.

Why National Maritime Day is Important

It reflects our identity as a nation
There’s something exciting about the very word “maritime.” Our country was founded by those who risked life and limb during treacherous sea voyages, and it has been defended ever since, during war and peace, by Americans at sea.
It celebrates collaboration between civilians and the military
During peacetime, the Merchant Marine uses a variety of seagoing vessels — including ferries, towboats, tugboats, and charter boats — to transport cargo and passengers between nations and within the United States. In addition to supplying goods, the Merchant Marine also provides humanitarian assistance and supplies in support of civilian research projects in far-off locales.
It honors lesser known military personnel
The Merchant Marine plays an important role during times of war, as well. It is charged with delivering personnel and material to the military, and its officers can be commissioned as officers of the military by the Department of Defense. Without the Merchant Marine, the military would not function as smoothly as it does.