What makes the New Bedford Whaling Museum unique?Imagine booking a whole Museum for your wedding! The New Bedford Whaling Museum offers learning through explorations of art, history, science and culture rooted in the stories of people, the region and an international seaport. We invite guests to walk around the museum to explore during your cocktail hour or even during the first hour of the reception!
Tell us about your facilities.We have a couple of ceremony options. Nestled at the top of Johnny Cake Hill, the Museum’s Plaza is an open courtyard offering views of the historic Seamen’s Bethel and the Mariners’ Home. You will be surrounded by cobblestone streets, emulating a historic New England feel. For outdoor ceremonies, tents can also be placed at our Captain Paul Cuffe Park. Or you can host your wedding ceremony in the historic Seamen’s Bethel, made famous in Moby-Dick, just across the street from the Museum. Following the ceremony, we can open the doors of the Museum so your guests can start a unique cocktail hour in the Bourne Building, which houses the Lagoda, the world’s largest ship model. (You can go on board!)
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Courtesy New Bedford Whaling Museum; Hallie Jade Pictures; About Time Photography
As for your reception, our most frequently rented area, the Harbor View Gallery, has two incredible, breathtaking terraces that overlook the New Bedford waterfront and historic downtown area. A few guests have opted to use the Cook Memorial Theatre to play welcome videos for their guests when they walk into the front entrance of the Museum. The possibilities are endless and we are happy to work with you to create your unique event.
How many guests can you accommodate?The Harbor View Gallery: 180 guests for a seated dinner with a DJ and dance floor / 150 guests for a seated dinner with a band and dance floor / Up to 350 standing, 300 standing with cocktail tables
The Bourne Building: 300 standing guests / 160 seated guests
The Plaza: 150 guests seated / 200 guests cocktail-style
Tell us about your on-site coordinator.At the Whaling Museum, we have an on-site Events Planning and Services Manager who will ensure all aspects of your special day unfurl seamlessly. From connecting with your vendors, to looping back with catering about extra logistics, our staff is ready to ensure your vision comes to fruition.
When to book: As soon as possible