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Group Tours

Discover tailored tours for every explorer!

Experience the Maritime Museum of San Diego with a Custom Group Tour, Guided Docent-Led Tour, or VIP Private Tour, offering immersive insights, historic ships, and unforgettable maritime adventures.

Explore the Maritime Museum with a Personalized Tour Experience

Discover the Maritime Museum of San Diego like never before with a customized tour designed to fit your group’s needs. Whether you’re looking for an engaging group experience, a guided docent-led tour, or an exclusive VIP private tour, we offer unique opportunities to explore our historic fleet, fascinating exhibits, and the rich maritime history of San Diego. Each tour provides a deeper, more immersive look into the stories behind the ships, the people who sailed them, and the artifacts that bring history to life.

Custom Group Tours

Our Custom Group Tours offer a unique and engaging way to experience the museum with corporate groups, colleagues, friends, or special-interest groups. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours can be tailored to specific interests, whether it’s maritime trade, naval history, or ship design. Enjoy an immersive journey through maritime history as you explore our historic fleet and exhibits.

Your tour will include visits to several historic vessels, such as the Star of India, HMS Surprise, San Salvador, the 1898 Victorian-era steam ferryboat Berkeley, and the 1904 steam yacht Medea. Time will also be spent in our galleries and exhibits, featuring a wide range of maritime history topics displayed within the museum’s world-class collection.

Pricing & Details

Notice: 2 weeks
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Duration: Up to 2 hours
Price: $35 per guest (10+ guests)

Reservation Form →

Guided Docent-Led Tours

Offered on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, these tours bring history to life through engaging stories and in-depth insights. Our trained and knowledgeable docents highlight the museum’s most significant vessels and exhibits while you enjoy the waterfront sights of San Diego Bay.

Perfect for individuals and smaller groups looking for an interactive, educational experience that connects maritime heritage enthusiasts.

“The docent and volunteer community share a wealth of knowledge, and a passion and pride with visitors. Maritime Museum guest comments reinforce the tremendous value and influence their knowledge and friendliness have on creating an unforgettable and educational visitor experience for all ages.”

— Raymond Ashley, Ph.D., K.C.I., President Emeritus

Pricing & Details

Notice: 2nd & 4th Wednesday
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Duration: Up to 2 hours
Price: $35 per guest

Book Online Now →

VIP Private Tour

For a truly exclusive experience, book a VIP Private Tour, offering a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s most iconic ships. Enjoy one-on-one access to an expert guide who will tailor the tour to your interests. Ideal for history buffs, special celebrations, or those looking for a deeper dive into the world of seafaring and exploration.

Exclusive 2-Hour Behind-the-Scenes Experience

Step aboard the Star of India and our fleet of historic vessels for a VIP Docent-Guided Experience like no other. This behind-the-scenes two-hour tour runs from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM on most weekdays and offers a unique, in-depth look at the museum’s iconic ships and exhibits. (Excludes K-12 school groups, summer camps, and daycares.)

This one-of-a-kind adventure is perfect for history enthusiasts, special gatherings, and those looking for a deeper, more immersive experience at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

Pricing & Details

Notice: 2 weeks
Start Time: 10:30 AM
Duration: Up to 2 hours
Price: $35 per guest • $350 minimum

Book Online Now →

The minimum charge covers up to 10 guests. Smaller groups are welcome. Additional guests over 10 are $35 each, up to 60 total.

After your tour: Explore the museum at your own pace (General Admission is included), step out for lunch at nearby dining options and return to continue exploring. You may also add a 45-minute Historic Bay Cruise for the complete maritime experience.

No matter which tour you choose, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the museum’s historic collection and enjoy an unforgettable journey through maritime history. Book your tour today!