Ahoy! Planning a ship tour? You need to read this!
What's the story
Visiting historical maritime ships is like stepping into a time machine.
You can almost hear the creak of the decks, the shouts of the sailors, and the roar of the cannons.
These tours are a chance to honor the past and the people who lived it. Don't spoil it by being a disrespectful time traveler.
Follow the rules of etiquette to make sure everyone has a great experience.
Dress code
Dress appropriately for the occasion
When visiting a historical maritime ship tour, it's important to dress comfortably and appropriately.
Choose flat shoes as you'll be walking on potentially slippery decks and climbing through narrow passageways. High heels or flip-flops are not safe for such tours.
Also, check the weather before you go; bring a light jacket or raincoat if needed, as conditions can change quickly at sea.
Guidance
Follow the guide's instructions
It's super important to listen to the guide and follow their rules on these tours. They're there to teach you about the ship's history and also to keep you safe.
If an area is marked as off-limits, it's either to protect sensitive parts of the ship or to prevent accidents in potentially hazardous areas.
Preservation
Respect the ship
Historical ships are delicate pieces of the past, and preserving them for future generations to experience requires a gentle touch.
Avoid touching artifacts or parts of the ship unless absolutely necessary. Even the slightest contact can contribute to wear and tear over time.
Be mindful not to sit on, lean against, or handle parts of the ship unless specifically permitted to do so by tour staff.
Photos
Photography guidelines
Photography is a great way to remember your visit, but be aware that flash photography may not be allowed inside the ship due to the light sensitivity of some artifacts.
Always look for signs or ask your guide before clicking pictures.
And remember, drones are a no-go in these areas.
Courtesy
Consideration for fellow visitors
Respecting fellow visitors makes the tour pleasant for everyone.
This means using quiet voices when talking about exhibits with your friends. Loud conversations can be disruptive to those trying to listen to their guides or read exhibit information.
And, give people room when looking at exhibits up close. Don't swarm around items - it can block views or access routes for others.