The Nantucket Lightship is a historic floating lighthouse that served as a navigational aid for ships in the waters off the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts. It was first commissioned in 1856 and operated until 1983, marking over a century of service. The lightship was equipped with a powerful beacon and sounded a foghorn to guide vessels safely through the treacherous waters of the Nantucket Shoals. Today, the Nantucket Lightship is preserved as a museum and is part of the Nantucket Historical Association. Visitors can explore its decks and learn about its important role in maritime history. The lightship is a symbol of the region's rich nautical heritage.