Muskegon County lighthouses, the guardians of seafarers who ventured onto the waters along Michigan's west coast, have maintained a faithful vigil for more than 100 years. They have guided ships and pleasure boats along the shoreline and helped turn Muskegon into a favorite port.

In addition to the two lighthouses open to tourists in Muskegon County, the area also boasts a unique collection of ships including a World War II submarine, a landing ship tank and a former luxury ferry.

Try this historical maritime tour when you visit Muskegon:

• Muskegon South Pierhead Light: Established 1852. The cast iron light, painted bright red, stands on one of the two piers that reach into Lake Michigan to form a protected entry into Muskegon Lake called the Muskegon Channel. Two smaller lights are on the breakwaters farther from shore. Follow the signs to Pere Marquette Park, where you will also find a sandy beach, playground and picnic area.

• White River Light Station: Established 1875. The light station is in its second life as a museum and is full of lighthouse and shipping artifacts. Climb the spiral staircase for a panoramic view of the lake and dunes. The museum curator is also a resident of the station and shares delightful tales of lighthouse life. Take White Lake Drive to South Shore Road, turn left and look for the museum sign at a four-way stop. (231) 894-8265.

• Great Lakes Naval Memorial and Museum: Home to the USS Silversides, a decorated World War II submarine open for public tours. Also at the site is the U.S. Coast Guard cutter McLane. A small museum features nautical and military gear. Located on Muskegon Channel near Pere Marquette Park. (231) 755-1230 or www.glnmm.org.

• SS Milwaukee Clipper: This was Muskegon's first cross-lake ferry connection to Milwaukee. Known as the "queen of the Great Lakes," the cruise ship is being restored to its original grandeur. Open for tours May through September. Located at 2098 Lakeshore, near the new Lake Express ferry docks in Muskegon's Lakeside district. (231) 755-0990.

• LST 393, Mart Dock, downtown Muskegon, US World War II Landing Ship. The Navy landing ship is a Omaha Beach D-Day Veteran currently under renovation. Open for tours May , 7 days a week. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Admission $5. Family rates available. The ship also will offer movies on deck Friday nights during the summer. 231-722-6932.