Experience 500 Years of Seafaring History.
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is renowned for its excellence in restoring and operating historic vessels, including the world’s oldest active ship, Star of India. With one of the finest collections of historic ships and exhibits available for public tours, it’s been named one of the top three maritime museums globally. A must-see for your bucket list!
Things to Do
Craving adventure on the water?
Enhance your visit with a Harbor Cruise on Pilot, or a Naval History Tour on the Swift Boat, or a unforgettable sailing experiences, aboard San Salvador or Californian.
CalifornianTall Ship Adventure Aboard Californian
Embark on a four-hour adventure aboard Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, where you can join the crew, haul lines, and experience sailing history firsthand.
PilotHistoric Bay Cruises Aboard Pilot
Step aboard Pilot, a 1914 San Diego-built vessel, for a unique 45-minute historic bay cruise and explore the rich maritime history of San Diego Bay.
San SalvadorSan Salvador Sailing Adventure
Experience a 4-hour adventure aboard the historic San Salvador, a magnificent replica 16th-century galleon, and feel the wind in the sails on the open water.
Swift BoatSwift Boat Naval History Tour
Take a high-speed Swift Boat Naval History Tour aboard PCF-816, the only active passenger Swift Boat, and cruise past San Diego’s naval landmarks.
Special Events
Experience exciting events all year long!
Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of special events, including concerts, themed cruises, and exclusive exhibits. Some events occur just once a year, while others are offered multiple times, providing unique experiences for visitors year-round.
Boarded!Boarded! A New Pirate Adventure
Join a 90-minute pirate adventure, where guests train as crew, learn pirate skills, and take part in an interactive show. Next show June 14th.
Family OvernightStar of India Family Overnight Experience
Stay overnight on the 1863 tall ship Star of India at the Maritime Museum. Families join the crew in costume for hands-on sailing tasks, stories, and historic accommodations. June 27th first overnight.
July 4th Fireworks4th of July BBQ &
Fireworks on the BayEnjoy BBQ, waterfront views, and front-row seats to the Big Bay Boom aboard historic Berkeley—supporting the Maritime Museum’s preservation efforts!
HausmannExperience live music on the bay!
Enjoy Haydn Voyages: Music at the Maritime, a quarterly concert series aboard the historic 1898 steam ferry Berkeley. Next concert September 14th.
Things to See
Included with General Admission
Your General Admission includes access to a world-class collection of historic ships, including Star of India, HMS Surprise, and San Salvador, along with engaging maritime exhibits that bring seafaring history to life. Docent-led and group tours are also available for a deeper exploration of maritime heritage.
The ShipsStep Aboard the Past
Step aboard the Maritime Museum of San Diego’s historic fleet and explore legendary sailing ships, steam-powered vessels, and iconic maritime history.
ExhibitsExploring the Wonders of Maritime History
Explore maritime history through diverse exhibits, showcasing maritime heritage and artistry.
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