Scouting Programs
Hands-on maritime experiences for scouts of all ages!
We offer programs designed specifically for scouts, as well as other experiences that align with scouting’s mission to give youth opportunities for growth and adventure.
Oceanography Merit Badge Days
Saturdays: June 14, July 26, and August 9, 2025
Scouts BSA youth are invited to earn their Oceanography Merit Badge at the Maritime Museum of San Diego by attending one of three engaging Saturday classes. Each session runs from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and scouts need only attend one class to complete the badge requirements.
This unique program gives local scouts a chance to dive deep into oceanography—right in the heart of San Diego’s waterfront. Through a dynamic mix of field work, hands-on lab activities, and thought-provoking discussion, Oceanography Merit Badge Days immerse participants in the many branches of oceanographic research.
Pricing
- $59.00 per participating scout
- $24.00 per accompanying adult
Includes general admission to explore the Maritime Museum after class.
Please Note
- Each scout or group must be accompanied by at least one parent or adult chaperone.
- All Scouts BSA Youth Protection guidelines must be followed.
- Reservations must be made online in advance. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Requirements
- Contact your troop leader ahead of time to request your Oceanography Merit Badge and bring your signed Blue Card to class.
- Ensure at least one adult leader accompanies each scout or group.
For over 20 years, the Maritime Museum of San Diego has been proud to host popular, award-winning educational events that provide exceptional hands-on learning experiences for youth and student groups year-round.
“Several of our troop scouts thoroughly enjoyed working on the Oceanography Merit Badge at the Maritime Museum. You couldn’t ask for a better venue—outside the typical classroom. The scouts loved the hands-on experiences, exploring the museum, and learning from great counselors!”
– A participating parent
Oceanography Merit Badge
Working with a certified Merit Badge counselor, scouts will perform plankton tows and water analysis as they learn about the five branches of oceanographic science. Scouts who complete all requirements during this program will receive a signed blue card.
Program Details
For: Scouts BSA Youth
Length: 5 hours
Size: 10–40 scouts
Program Costs (per participant)
Scouts: $59
Adult Chaperones: $24
Scout Leader: Free
Overnight Option
Your program can be followed up with a sleepover aboard one of our historic vessels! In addition to working on the Oceanography Merit Badge, scouts will also have the opportunity to participate in other scout-oriented activities, have dinner and breakfast provided, and sleep aboard a tall ship. The minimum/maximum number of participants to book an overnight option is 20/50.
Ahoy, Scouts! (Introduction to Sailing Ships)
Introduce your Brownies or Cub Scouts to the salty world of sailing ships! They will explore the world’s oldest active sailing ship, Star of India, through an interactive scavenger hunt guided by one of our instructors. We will also teach the scouts shipboard directions, how to identify important parts of the ship, and even spin them a yarn!
Program Details
For: Brownies & Cub Scouts
Length: 2 hours
Size: 15–30 scouts
Program Costs (per participant)
Students: $28
Adult Chaperones: $24
Scout Leader: Free
Other Great Programs for Scouts
Adventure Tours
Go rowing on San Diego Bay, get hands-on experience working the sailing technology of Star of India, and explore our diverse collection of ships. Includes an option for an overnight stay aboard one of our historic vessels!
Learn more about Adventure Tours
Day Sailing
Enjoy a three-hour day sail on San Diego Bay, where you will hoist sails, take the helm, and learn to tie the knots we use aboard ship.
Learn more about Day Sailing
To learn more or book a program:
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