Deck 5
The Bridge: Command the Seas and Navigate History!
Step into one of GulfQuest’s crown jewels—the Take the Helm Theater, where visitors become ship captains, piloting vessels through challenging waters and ever-changing conditions. This deck also explores the fascinating world of maritime communication and navigation with engaging exhibits. Don’t miss the Bridge Wings, offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the bustling working waterfront and the vibrant cityscape of downtown Mobile. Ready to take command?
Sound Signals: Hear the Language of the Sea!
Step into the world of maritime communication and listen to the powerful sound signals ships use to speak across the waves. Learn to recognize the meanings behind each horn, bell, and whistle—essential alerts that keep vessels safe and coordinated on the open water. Tune your ears to the secret language that guides sailors through fog, night, and busy ports!
The Telegraph
A fully-functioning bridge telegraph from World War II invites visitors to give it a try. When they move the lever to any position, the indicator dial will follow suit, indicating their message was received in the container ship’s engine room.
Radio Traffic: Tune Into the Pulse of the Port!
Step into the bustling world of maritime radio and listen in on “live” communications that keep the port humming. Hear real-time exchanges between ships and shore crews as they coordinate docking, loading, and navigation. Experience the high-stakes chatter that powers every successful voyage and keeps the heart of the harbor beating strong!
At the Wheel: Command the Helm of History!
Get hands-on with authentic artifacts from two pivotal eras in maritime navigation—a majestic 19th-century ship’s wheel and a World War II binnacle. Feel the power and precision that guided sailors through uncharted waters and stormy seas. Step up, imagine the open ocean, and experience the timeless art of steering history’s greatest voyages!
Harbors of the Gulf: Are You a Gulf Port Pro?
Step up and put your knowledge to the test with this interactive challenge! Answer 10 exciting questions about the Gulf’s major ports and earn your rank as a true maritime expert. Perfectly positioned near the “Take the Helm” Theater, this exhibit invites groups to compete, learn, and cheer each other on. Ready to claim your captain’s title?
Bridge Wings (Observation Decks)
Command Spectacular Views of Mobile’s Maritime Heart!
Step out onto our Bridge Wings and feast your eyes on breathtaking panoramic vistas! To the east, watch the bustling working waterfront pulse with activity, while to the west, marvel at historic maritime landmarks that tell Mobile’s rich seafaring story. Interactive panels bring the scene to life, revealing insider stories about the Port of Mobile, iconic ships, and the vibrant culture that keeps this harbor alive. It’s your front-row seat to Mobile’s maritime legacy!
“Take the Helm” Theater: Captain Your Own Maritime Adventure!
Step into the captain’s chair in this state-of-the-art simulator—identical to those used by professional boat pilots! Navigate real-life vessels through the bustling Port of Mobile, scenic Mobile Bay, and winding Tombigbee River. Each show, two lucky “captains” are chosen to select their own thrilling scenarios—day or night, calm seas or fierce storms—and put their skills to the ultimate test. Guided by expert museum staff, you’ll steer through stunningly accurate models of downtown Mobile and beyond. Ready to command your ship and prove you’ve got what it takes?
How Fast? How Deep?: Navigate Like a Sea Captain!
Discover the essential skills every navigator needs—knowing the ship’s speed and the ocean’s depth to stay on course. Step back in time and explore how centuries of mariners relied on clever tools like knotted lines trailing behind their vessels to gauge speed, and weighted lines to sound the depths beneath. Experience the art of ancient navigation and master the secrets that kept ships sailing true!
In the Dark: Master the Night Watch!
Put your keen eyes to the ultimate test as a nighttime “spotter”! Track glowing ship models and watch their lights dance on the screen, deciphering the patterns to determine each vessel’s type and direction under the cover of darkness. Sharpen your skills and experience the thrill of navigating the seas when every light counts!
