One of the best places to experience all the action during Fleet Week is the Intrepid Museum, where the city’s rich maritime history meets hands-on military demos, live performances, and even a movie under the stars.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — There aren’t many times a journalist has the honor and privilege to stay aboard a U.S. Coast Guard vessel, so when I was presented with the opportunity to get an inside look few will ever have — during Fleet Week no less — I jumped at the chance.