Lighthouse Overnight Program

Frequently Asked Questions

About group programs…

1. I have a scout troop interested in an overnight, when can I schedule a program?
Programs for scout and youth groups are held most Friday and Saturday nights in the months of April, May, June, September, and October.

2. What dates are available?
This program usually books up to a year in advance.

3. How many people can participate?
The program is designed for up to 12 children and 3 adult chaperones. We are unable to accommodate more than 15 people.

4. I have a much larger group than 15, how can I participate?
Large groups may schedule two nights. We cannot promise, however, that two consecutive nights will be available.

5. We have less than 12 youngsters in our group, can we bring more adults?
Yes, as long as the total group size does not exceed fifteen.

6. What ages should the participants be?
The minimum age to participate is 8 years. Based on our experience, the ideal range is eight to twelve.

7. How much does it cost?
The program fee is $650 for a group up to fifteen. A non-refundable deposit of $100 is required to secure a reservation, which is deducted from the final balance.

8. What is included in the cost?
This program will include an education program to teach you about Hooper Strait Lighthouse, lighthouse keeping and the day-to-day life of a keeper. You will receive a hands-on, guided tour of the lighthouse, and a chance to perform some of the duties of a traditional lighthouse keeper. In addition to the activities, you will receive overnight accommodations, two days' admission to the Museum and a souvenir patch.

9. When do I pay my balance?
Your balance is due one month before your program.

10. What are the program hours?
The program runs from 6:00 pm in the evening until 7:30 am the next morning, with time scheduled in for dinner.

11. What about meals?
Groups are responsible for providing your meals (dinner and breakfast) during the program. Most groups will either brown-bag it, cook out or order pizza. Suggestions for local food venues will be included in the confirmation packet.

12. Are there bathrooms in the lighthouse?
There are no bathrooms in the lighthouse, however modern facilities are located within a hundred yards on the museum grounds.

13. Where do we sleep?
All participants sleep on the hardwood floor. Sleeping bags and pads are a necessity! Everyone will sleep on the first floor of the lighthouse.

14. Are we left alone at night after the educational activities end?
No, the instructor stays overnight with you. Your group will sleep on the first floor while the instructor spends the night on the second floor of the lighthouse.

15. Can we earn a Girl or Boy Scout badge if we do the program?
Participation in this program will allow you to fulfill some of the requirements to complete the lighthouse badges for Brownie, Junior, Cadette and Senior levels of Girl Scouts (These badges were developed by the Girl Scouts of Delaware-Raritan in New Jersey, www.gsofdr.org.) Unfortunately, at this time we are not aware of a badge for Boy Scouts. All participants will receive a special program patch from the Museum.

16. Our group has a reservation that was made months ago, and I haven't heard from you since then. When will I know more?
A detailed confirmation packet will be mailed to you approximately two months before your program date. This packet will include an overview of what to expect, ideas of what to bring, information about the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and St. Michaels, a liability release form and directions.

17. I still have questions about the Lighthouse Overnight Program.
Who should I contact?
Please contact Youth Programs Coordinator Rachel Dolhanczyk at klivie@cbmm.org, or call (410) 745-2916 x103.

For families, couples and individuals….

1. My kids/spouse and I would like to sleep in a lighthouse. How do I do that?
Each summer the Museum schedules several Lighthouse Overnight Programs for families, couples, and individuals. Please see the 2005 flyer for a list of program dates.

2. How many people can participate?
The program will be limited to 15 people. Please note that you will be joining other families, couples and/or individuals for your overnight.

3. How old do you have to be to participate?
Children must be at least 7 years old. We require one chaperone for every two children.

4. How much does it cost for families, couples or individuals to participate?
The fee is $50 for non-members, and $45 for members per person, adult or child.

5. What is included in the cost?
This program will include an education program to teach you about Hooper Strait Lighthouse, lighthouse keeping and the day-to-day life of a keeper. You will receive a hands-on, guided tour of the lighthouse, and a chance to perform some of the duties of a traditional lighthouse keeper. In addition to the activities, you will receive overnight accommodations, dinner, two days' admission to the Museum and a souvenir patch.

6. What are the program hours?
The program runs from 6:00 pm in the evening until 7:30 am the next morning, with time scheduled in for dinner.

7. What about dinner?
We provide dinner that usually consists of fried chicken, sides, and drinks, but make no provisions for breakfast.

8. Are there bathrooms in the lighthouse?
There are no bathrooms in the lighthouse, however modern facilities are located within a hundred yards on the museum property.

9. Where do we sleep?
All participants sleep on the hardwood floor. Sleeping bags and pads are a necessity! Everyone will sleep on the first floor of the lighthouse.

10. I have back pain and am unable to sleep on the floor. What can I do?
Participants with back problems are permitted to bring an air mattress.

11. Are we left alone at night after the educational activities end?
No, the instructor stays the night with you. Your group will sleep on the first floor while the instructor spends the night on the second floor of the lighthouse.

12. I still have questions about the Lighthouse Overnight Program.
Who should I contact?
Please contact Youth and Family Programs Coordinator Rachel Dolhanczyk at klivie@cbmm.org, or call (410) 745-2916 x103.

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