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Charters, Team Building, and Theme Parties

Unforgettable events aboard our historic ships

Host a private charter, team-building event, or themed party aboard the historic ships of the Maritime Museum of San Diego for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Unforgettable Charters & Events

Set sail for an extraordinary event with a private charter, team-building adventure, or themed celebration at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand affair, our expert event planners handle every detail to ensure a seamless experience. From immersive themed décor to engaging activities, we bring your vision to life, creating an event your guests will never forget.

With over 30 years of experience, the Maritime Museum of San Diego is the perfect partner for convention planners and corporate events. Our historic ships provide a one-of-a-kind setting, while our dedicated team ensures flawless execution from start to finish. Let us craft an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Charters are special experiences that create lasting memories!

Our ships are available for corporate team building, private parties, or an enchanting evening under the western skies.

In addition to our fleet, the Maritime Museum of San Diego partners with other organizations to offer additional vessels for larger groups. Multiple vessels give large groups the opportunity to sail together and enjoy the best of what San Diego has to offer.

All charters include captain and crew.

Californian

Take your group for a sensational afternoon or sunset sail aboard the 1847 Revenue Cutter replica, Californian, the Official State Tall Ship of California.

Capacity: Up to 50 guests

Minimum rates are for two hours and can be scheduled for multi-day trips. Food and beverage service is available.

Californian sailing on San Diego Bay

San Salvador

The San Salvador, under the command of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, arrived at the port we now call San Diego on September 28, 1542. She was the first recorded European vessel to sail along Southern California and survey its coastline.

Enjoy a memorable sail aboard this iconic ship for your next function.

Capacity: Up to 45 guests at sea or 65 in the bay

Minimum rates are for two hours and can be scheduled for multi-day trips. Food and beverage service is available.

San Salvador sailing on San Diego Bay

1914 Pilot

For a more intimate cruise on San Diego Bay, consider chartering the 1914 Pilot.

Capacity: Up to 25 passengers

1914 Pilot on San Diego Bay

PCF 816 Swift Boat

For a unique cruise on San Diego Bay, consider chartering the PCF 816 Swift Boat.

Capacity: Up to 25 passengers

PCF 816 Swift Boat on San Diego Bay

All Maritime Museum of San Diego captains are U.S. Coast Guard licensed professionals.

Team Building Aboard Historic Ships

Elevate your team’s collaboration, communication, and leadership skills with an unforgettable adventure on San Diego’s waterfront. The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers a hands-on, results-driven team-building experience aboard the schooner Californian and the galleon San Salvador—two historic sailing vessels that challenge and inspire.

Team building aboard Californian

Team building aboard San Salvador

Watch your staff transform into a crew as they tackle the rigors of sailing, working together to overcome challenges that mirror real-world business dynamics. Our customized programs range from a few hours to multi-day experiences, focusing on essential workplace skills such as collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Participants are immersed in an unfamiliar environment that levels the playing field, breaks down barriers, and fosters trust. As they navigate new challenges, they develop leadership skills, enhance communication, and gain valuable insights into team dynamics. The excitement of sailing helps make those lessons stick—creating lasting personal and professional growth.

Ready for the challenge?
Contact us today to design a team-building program tailored to your organization’s goals.

All Maritime Museum of San Diego captains are U.S. Coast Guard licensed professionals.

Themed Events at the Maritime Museum of San Diego

Unforgettable Experiences, Custom Tailored for Your Event

Looking for an extraordinary way to entertain your guests? The Maritime Museum of San Diego specializes in immersive themed events that captivate the senses and leave lasting impressions. Whether it’s a high-energy casino night, a swashbuckling pirate adventure, or a vibrant carnival celebration, we bring your vision to life with theatrical décor, live entertainment, and interactive experiences.

Our Signature Themes:

Casino & Monte Carlo Night

Step into a world of glamour and high stakes as your venue transforms into an upscale casino. Whether you envision a black-tie Monte Carlo experience or a laid-back riverboat scene, your guests can try their luck at blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker. Strolling magicians and dazzling entertainers complete the scene, while casino-themed décor sets the stage for an unforgettable night.

Pirate’s Plunder

Arrgh, matey! Set sail for a thrilling pirate-themed extravaganza where guests become the kings and queens of the high seas. Lantern-lit tables, treasure chests overflowing with jewels, and dramatic pirate décor immerse everyone in the golden age of piracy. The ship’s decks come alive with roving pirate entertainers, live music, and interactive storytelling—all while guests feast like true buccaneers.

Carnival Night

Let the samba rhythms take over as we transport your guests to the heart of Carnival! Brightly colored linens, oversized feathered masks, and twinkling string lights set the scene for an exhilarating evening. From Creole and Cajun cuisine to live jazz, blues, and zydeco, every element is carefully curated to capture the spirit of this legendary celebration.

Changes in Latitude – A Tropical Escape

Feel the warm ocean breeze, hear the sway of palm trees, and step into a laid-back island paradise. Whether inspired by the Caribbean or Polynesian islands, this theme is perfect for those looking to unwind, dance, and sip tropical cocktails under the stars. With festive décor, steel drum bands, and tiki-style entertainment, it’s an island getaway right in San Diego.

More Exciting Themes:
  • Wine Tasting Evening
  • Roaring ’20s / Big Band Night
  • Retro 50s & 60s Celebration
  • International Festival
  • Patriotic Red, White & Blue Gala
  • Holiday & Christmas-Themed Events
  • Broadway & Musical Showcase
  • New Year’s Eve Spectacular
  • Classic Black-Tie Gala
  • High Rollers Night
  • Beach Party Bash
  • Night in Casablanca
  • Love Boat Romance

Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life!

We specialize in creating customized experiences to match your theme, style, and goals.
Contact us today to start planning an unforgettable event aboard the historic ships of the Maritime Museum of San Diego.