CG-36500 Motor Lifeboat

Overview

The CG-36500 is the storied “Gold Medal Boat” that pulled off the SS Pendleton rescue in 1952—arguably the Coast Guard’s most daring save. She’s a 36‑foot, self‑righting wooden motor lifeboat, fully restored and operational, and today she serves as a floating museum at Rock Harbor in Orleans. It’s run by the local historical society, not the Park Service, but it’s one of the most meaningful maritime stops on the Cape.

Why it matters

On February 18, 1952, coxswain Bernie Webber and his three‑man crew took this small boat into a raging nor’easter and brought 32 men off the broken tanker Pendleton. All four Coast Guardsmen received the Gold Life‑Saving Medal, and the feat later inspired the film The Finest Hours. The CG‑36500 is the only operating survivor of her class on the East Coast and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

What you’ll see

When she’s at the dock, you can walk right up and, during scheduled hours, step aboard for volunteer‑led talks that bring the rescue to life—wheel, engine space, cramped quarters where sailors packed in, the works. When tours aren’t running, the boat still makes a powerful sight at the end of the harbor lot.

How to visit

Talks & Tours are typically offered on summer weekends; current postings list Saturdays and Sundays, 1–4 pm, through October 13 at Rock Harbor. The schedule can shift with weather and harbor operations, so check for updates the week you go. Public viewing from the dock is possible nearly year‑round when she’s berthed at Rock Harbor.

Parking, facilities, and on‑the‑ground reality

Rock Harbor has a public lot that’s free but can fill quickly near sunset. Amenities are minimal—expect seasonal portable toilets rather than permanent facilities—so plan ahead. The Town has been rebuilding the commercial wharf area; parking and access patterns have occasionally shifted during this work.

Getting there

From Route 6, take Exit 12 to Route 6A East, left on West Road, right on Skaket Beach Road, left on Rock Harbor Road, then right on Bonnell Lane to the harbor. From the Lower Cape via Route 28, continue to Main Street (Orleans), straight onto Rock Harbor Road, then right on Bonnell Lane.

Best time to visit

Go on a summer weekend during the 1–4 pm tour window if you want to board and hear the story from the crew. For quieter photos, visit earlier in the day; for atmosphere and views, late‑day light is lovely but brings crowds to the harbor.