Swiftsure

The Swiftsure is a lightship approximately 130 feet long anchored at Lake Union in Seattle and maintained as a museum by the Northwest Seaport. The vessel retains its original steam engine system and other technical equipment from its construction era.

The vessel was built in 1904 and operated for decades at five different West Coast stations to guide ships through dangerous waters. Its extended service record shows how vital lightships were for navigation before modern technology became available.

The vessel shows how crew members lived and worked in tight quarters, with simple bunks and functional spaces reflecting the harsh reality of life at sea. Visitors can understand the close bonds that formed when people spent months together on this small ship.

The ship is located at the Northwest Seaport museum dock and is easily accessible on foot, with tours available through the various decks. Visitors can explore on their own or join guided tours to learn more about how the vessel operated.

The vessel played a dramatic role in rescuing passengers from another steamship in distress, highlighting its importance for maritime rescue operations. This heroic action remains part of the stories told aboard the ship today.