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Historic Bay Cruises Aboard Pilot

On The Water Adventures

Step aboard the oldest active pilot boat in the country for a narrated bay cruise! Launched in 1914, the Pilot served as San Diego’s chief pilot craft until her retirement in 1996. Throughout her active career, she guided thousands of major commercial ships safely in and out of the bay.

Historic Bay Cruises aboard Pilot - cruising along downtown San Diego

Unique 45 minute Historic Bay Cruise aboard the 1914 Pilot.

Built locally in San Diego at a small yard, the Pilot spent her entire career navigating the waters of San Diego Bay and its approaches. For generations, harbor pilots relied on the Pilot to brave all weather conditions, guiding incoming merchant ships that brought cargoes and passengers vital to the growth of San Diego’s urban seaport.

Restored by the Maritime Museum of San Diego and relaunched in 2002, the Pilot invites you aboard for a 45-minute bay tour, where you can explore the rich history of San Diego Bay from the deck of this historic vessel.

    • Book Online Now!
      • Adults – $34
      • Sr 62+, Mil, Student 13-17 – $28
      • Child 12-3 – $22
      • Child 2 & under – $10
      • Member – $10

      Includes General Admission.

    • Historic Bay Cruise boarding times are: 11:00am, 12:45pm, 1:45pm, 2:45pm, (3:45pm Saturday & Sunday – walkup tickets only) Please check-in at least 15 minutes before.

      Online sales end 8 am day of.

      Walk-up tickets are available at the Museum ticket booth till sold out.

    Online Ticket Sales: 2.3% credit card plus 6% online fee will added to the total. Final price will be shown before checkout.

“Both Keke and our captain were amazing. Very informative and funny. Took out my boys 6 and 10 as well as my mother in law. My mother in law has lived in San Diego for over 50 years and learned many things even she was surprised about. Highly recommend adding the boat tour to your museum trip.” Melissa G. posted on Yelp
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When clicked, video will play from youTube Servers

Please note there are no restrooms aboard Pilot.