Lightship Overfalls

Historic Site

The Lightship Overfalls, docked along the canal in historic Lewes, Delaware, is one of the last remaining lightships in the United States and a proud National Historic Landmark. Built in 1938 as LV-118 for the U.S. Lighthouse Service, it was later renamed in honor of the Overfalls Shoals lightship station nearby. Unlike traditional lighthouses, lightships were floating beacons stationed in treacherous waters where permanent structures couldn’t be built, guiding mariners safely through fog and storms. After its decommissioning in 1972, the Overfalls found new life as a museum ship, lovingly restored by volunteers and now open for public tours. Visitors can explore its decks, learn about the lives of lightship crews, and immerse themselves in Delaware’s maritime heritage—all just steps from Canalfront Park in Lewes.

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Lightship Overfalls

Historic Site

Suggested Links

The Potomac River Guide	The Hudson River Guide
The Connecticut River Guide