National Maritime Day

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.’

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.