I used to work downtown Manhattan (I moved last year to Mineola), and visited the South Street Seaport many, many times...the water is exactly what you would expect around a major city, but perhaps cleaner than it used to be. Fishing is better now, but I still wouldn't drink the water.:grin:
Superb idea for a diorama...just how much of the surrounding pier did you plan to use? There is a little cafe on the pier adjacent to the Ambrose, which you see in the photo, with chairs and tables used on a nice day. And I imagine you will not also build the small tug that's tied along side of her.:grin:
I haven't seen many dioramas with ships, usually they are displayed underway, infrequently at anchor and rarely at the pier...so, it would be very unique, interesting and quite attractive, I think. Can't wait to see how it turns out!
Cheers!
Jim