The New Bedford Whaling Museum's Moby-Dick Marathon is an annual non-stop reading of Herman Melville's literary masterpiece. The multi-day program of entertaining activities and events is presented every January. Admission to the Marathon is free.

Marathoner's Checklist

Jan 9, 2011 2:58 AMFor your consideration, the fruit of a collective nine Moby-Dick Marathons... 

What to Bring
  • A copy of Moby-Dick.  Of course.  (Or buy a copy in the Museum Gift Shop. Last resort: the Museum has a few copies to loan.)
  • Reading glasses, if you use them.
  • Medications & tissues, as required.
  • Notepad and pen, if you're prone to epiphanies.
  • Warm, layered clothing, with a cap.  The Museum is kept at a comfortable temperature, but one's metabolism ebbs in the wee hours.
  • A pillow or pad to sit on.  (Or bring your own folding chair.)  The Museum's chairs are hard plastic.
  • Mints or gum, out of consideration for your shipmates.
  • Camera (no flash, please)
  • Your favorite Web-enabled device.  The Museum has made its WiFi network available during recent Marathons.  Some power-outlets are available.  Best to bring a power-strip or multi-tap so you can share the power.
  • Snacks, preferably unspillable, in quiet wrappers.  Museum volunteers provide excellent chowder and beans around 6 PM.  Later, sandwiches, fruit, cookies, etc. may appear. Coffee, tea, and cider are available through the night.  ...Or you can bring your own food.
    Update: The museum's 12/22/12 newsletter stated that "food and beverages will be sold [emphasis mine] on site..." Come prepared.
    Note    : Food/drink is permitted only in the Jacobs Family Gallery (the large room with the whale skeletons overhead).
  • Water bottle.  You can refill from the drinking fountain, or bring enough bottled water to last you.
  • Knitting/crochet gear.  This is a popular pastime.
  • Foam sleeping pad and/or sleeping bag.  The balcony at the back of the Jacobs Family Gallery has been the de facto crash area after the Museum's exhibits close for the night.
  • Washcloth & toothbrush, if desired.
  • Tote bag or backpack to hold everything.
  • Cash for donation boxes in the Museum and at the Seamen's Bethel.  Optional, but appreciated.

Arrive Before the Noontime Start
  • Silence your electronics.
  • Pick up Purchase your MDM souvenir button, and pick up a list of readers at the door.
  • If you're staying for the entire 25 hours, register with the volunteer.  You'll get a nice gift at the end of the Marathon.
  • If you haven't pre-registered to read, consider signing up as a standby reader.

Relax & Enjoy.
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