The Moshulu - A Sailing Ship Turned Into a Restaurant in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA - Moshulu is a historic four-masted square rigger located at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.  It has been a fixture on the city's waterfront for years and has recently been refurbished to become a restaurant. The restored ship features a new lobby bar.


The Moshulu - A Sailing Ship Turned Into a Restaurant in Philadelphia

 

Moshulu Is A Historic Four-masted Square Rigger

The Moshulu was built by shipbuilders in Scotland and is the oldest square-rigged sailing vessel in the world. She was named "Kurt" when she was first built in 1904.  When the United States entered World War I, the ship was laid up in Astoria, Oregon. In 1917, the United States Navy confiscated the ship. Later, it was renamed Moshulu by the wife of First Lady Woodrow Wilson.



The Charles Nelson Co., a lumber firm, purchased the ship. The ship transported lumber to San Pedro, California, South Africa, Australia, and Chile. In 1935, the ship was purchased by Finland. The Finnish government refloated the ship in 1961.

In 1974, the South Street Seaport moved the ship to Penn's Landing. The ship was converted into a restaurant in 1975. The restaurant closed in 1989 after a four-alarm fire. It was later restored in 1994.



The ship's decks were converted into a restaurant and bar. Among the new features are an oval Captain's Table that can accommodate up to 20 guests. The ship also features handcrafted mahogany woodwork, rattan captain's chairs, and handmade bamboo wall sconces.

The menu includes a selection of seafood, steaks, and other American cuisine. The price range for an entree ranges from $24 to $55. Side dishes are available for $8 to $10. Drinks range from $6 to $22. There are also local craft beers and seasonal brews.