The society's mission is to educate Americans, especially its youth about maritime accomplishments throughout American history and their continued relevance for national prosperity and cultural vitality.
[1] Specifically, the NMHS educational agenda includes exploring America's maritime heritage, advocating first-hand experiences on ships, and encouraging visits to maritime museums.
[6] Since 1972, the NMHS has published a quarterly magazine, Sea History[7] featuring articles on contemporary and historic marine art; Historic Ships on Lee Shore, which brings attention to historic ships in need, a Sea History for Kids section (profiling marine and maritime professionals) and Animals in Sea History by Richard J.
Since 2004, the magazine has also included a regular column by Peter McCracken (founder of Serials Solutions and ShipIndex.org), called 'Maritime History on the Internet.
The other annual awards dinner is held at the New York Yacht Club in Manhattan.