Flyout Menu
Experience authentic New Bedford—from Boat to Table.
New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center is your usher to an adventure through the industry, history and culture of a thriving fishing port. Our group tours are specially coordinated to provide an authentic and intimate window into the age-old trade feeding people across the globe to this day. Cap off your tour with a visit to one of our many local restaurants where you can taste the tradition that has kept New Bedford running for generations.
We’ll custom-fit an experience for your group’s interests and abilities. Below, you’ll find a list of past tours and workshops to give you an example of the range of experiences we can offer. Multiple tours can be combined as well. Click the button to schedule a group visit, or email Joe Ritter with your questions at Programs@FishingHeritageCenter.org
A walking tour of New Bedford’s iconic and historic working waterfront, led by seasoned insiders with deep roots in the fishing community. This intimate, expert-guided tour of America’s most valuable fishing port will bring you through the past, present, and future of our fishing heritage. Explore the history of the fishing industry, life in a fishing family, and the ins and outs of a contemporary waterfront. Each guide brings a valuable and unique perspective to the tour, that varies depending on their lived experience.
Embark on a unique opportunity to step onto the deck of a working scallop vessel. This exclusive tour offers a firsthand glimpse into the daily operations of a fishing boat, a chance to interact with the crew, witness the workings of the gear, and gain insight into the rhythm of shipboard life. Join us for an unforgettable experience as we invite you to explore the maritime world and discover the unique lifestyle of hard work and survival amidst the waves.
An inside look at the Whaling City Seafood Display Auction. Fish and scallops landed in New Bedford are sold to buyers across the country and around the globe at this fast-paced auction which sets the global market price for sea scallops. The fish auction takes place at 6:00 a.m. and scallop auction at 9:00 a.m. Monday-Friday (depending on availability of product). Tours begin half an hour before the auction time and include viewing the product to be auctioned and observing the actual auction.
Fairhaven Shipyard, located in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, has a long-standing history as a center for shipbuilding and marine repair. Established in the 19th century, the shipyard has played a critical role in the region’s maritime industry. Its strategic position near New Bedford’s bustling harbor has made it an ideal location for constructing a range of vessels, from commercial fishing boats to larger freighters.
This behind-the-scenes experience is a great add-on to other waterfront tours, giving you a closer look at the seafood industry and the chance to take fresh, premium seafood home to enjoy. Perfect for foodie groups or anyone curious to try our local North Atlantic catch!
A tour behind the scenes of Reidar’s Trawl Gear and Marine Supply, the lead supplier of nets and dredges for the nation’s top fishing port. During this up-close and personal look inside a 3rd-generation marine shop, you’ll witness the art of fabricating fishing nets, scallop dredges, and other gear of the industry. Meet the people who supply the tools of the trade to the fleet of ships bringing your seafood to table.
A walking tour of New Bedford’s iconic and historic working waterfront, led by seasoned insiders with deep roots in the fishing community. This intimate, expert-guided tour of America’s most valuable fishing port will bring you through the past, present, and future of our fishing heritage. Explore the history of the fishing industry, life in a fishing family, and the ins and outs of a contemporary waterfront. Each guide brings a valuable and unique perspective to the tour, that varies depending on their lived experience.
An illustrated talk co-presented by a commercial fisherman and FHC staff person that provides an overview of the local seafood industry and its inner workings including the different fisheries, types of gear used, types of seafood harvested, daily life at sea, and what happens when the boat returns to port (how the catch is offloaded, sold, processed, etc.). The presentation also considers the dangers of commercial fishing and touches on sustainability and fisheries science. We allow ample time for Q&A throughout.
We are pleased to offer a variety of maritime craft and seafood cooking classes. Past maritime craft offerings having included: sea glass jewelry, decorative knots, and maritime sketching. Seafood Cooking Classes range from basics of preparing seafood to ethnic recipes and highlight abundant, local species. We can work with you to tailor a class or workshop to your group’s interests.
For public programs, be sure to check out our calendar for upcoming offerings. Be sure to subscribe to the Center’s e-newsletter so you don’t miss out!
"For seafood-loving foodies, the insider experiences at FHC are the best way to get a true taste of the New Bedford's fishing traditions. It’s a unique way to connect with the fresh, local seafood that makes New England famous."
"The 'Walk the Working Waterfront' tour is an unbelievable experience!! You get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at America’s top fishing port from the FHC -- with firsthand stories told in the shadow of the fishing fleet, you get a true feel for New Bedford’s maritime life. It should be on everyone’s bucket list!!"
"I was on a cruise that included a stop at New Bedford Harbor. Two representatives (a fishing boat captain, and a person whose father was a fishing boat captain and was lost at sea) gave a talk that was the most memorable discussion of my trip! I would like to personally thank your two representatives for describing what they do, and the mission of the Fishing Heritage Center."
