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National Maritime Day is a United States holiday created to recognize the maritime industry. It is observed on May 22, the date that the American steamship Savannah set sail from Savannah, Georgia on the first ever transoceanic voyage under steam power. The holiday was created by the United States Congress on May 20, 1933 

 

 On May 22, 1819, the SS Savannah left its home port of Savannah, Georgia on its way to Liverpool, England.  The ship "put to sea with steam and sails" and reached Liverpool, England, in 29 days and four hours, becoming the first steamship to cross the Atlantic.  While the steam engine performed faultlessly, it was not the only means of propulsion; historians have estimated that the Savannah was under sail 80% of the time.  Nonetheless, it was an impressive achievement, one that signaled the beginning of the era of steam, and American technological leadership.

 

Today, Maritime Day is observed in a variety of ways.  Many ports have open houses and special celebrations.  Propeller Clubs all over the United States hold special luncheons.  At Merchant Marine Memorials, such as the one in New York City, and the one in San Pedro, California, memorial observances are held.  In November 2005, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops voted to make National Maritime Day a Day of Prayer and Remembrance for Seafarers and People of the Sea.  It is the day the nation, and particularly those in the U.S. maritime industry who are responsible for handling America's imports, exports, domestic shipments and its millions of annual cruise passengers-honor those who currently serve and have served as merchant mariners in service to their country. On a larger scale however, National Maritime Day is a day to pay special tribute to the benefits that the maritime industry provides this country and to all who live here.