MembershipVolunteer

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.

  • Learn More about Custom Group Tours and Booking Information

    Docent-Led Experiences for Adult Groups (10+)

    The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers expertly guided tours designed for community groups, corporate gatherings, and visitors attending conferences or special events. Led by our trained and knowledgeable docents, these tours bring history to life through engaging storytelling and re-enactments.

    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.

    Group Tour Pricing & Add-On Experiences

    • $35 per guest (Groups of 10 or more; excludes school groups & daycares)
    • Enhance your tour with an on-the-water experience add-on:
      • Historic Bay Cruise aboard Pilot
      • Naval History Tour aboard Swift Boat PCF-816
      • Pilot & Swift Boat tours must be scheduled in advance to ensure availability.

    Booking Details

    • Minimum two business weeks’ notice is required for all docent-led tours.
    • Tours last approximately two hours and can begin between 10:30 AM and 2:00 PM.
    Reservation Form
    Or Call for a reservation: 619-234-9153 extension 129

Guided Docent-Led Tours

Enhance your visit with a Guided Docent-Led Tour, offered on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, where passionate and knowledgeable docents bring history to life with engaging stories and in-depth insights. These tours highlight the museum’s most significant vessels and exhibits, providing a well-rounded look at maritime history. Great for individuals and smaller groups looking for a more interactive, educational experience during their visit.

  • Learn More about Guided Docent-Led Wednesday Tours and Booking Information

    2nd and 4th Wednesday of Each Month

    Join us for a Guided Docent-Led Tour at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, where our trained and knowledgeable historians share in-depth stories of our historic ships. Enjoy the waterfront sights of San Diego Bay, gain fascinating insights into maritime history, and connect with others who share an interest in maritime heritage.

    According to Raymond Ashley, Ph.D., K.C.I., President Emeritus of the Maritime Museum of San Diego: “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.”

    Tour Details

    • Starts at 10:30 AM
    • $35 per person (Includes General Admission)

    Book Now! Guided Docent Led Tours

    After the tour, guests can explore the museum at their own pace and even step out for lunch before returning—there are plenty of dining options within walking distance. A 45-minute Historic Bay Cruise can also be added on-site for an additional experience.

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.

  • Learn More about VIP Private Tour and Booking Information

    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.)

    Pricing & Group Size

    • Flat fee: $350 for up to 10 people
    • $35 per additional person after the first 10
    • Maximum group size: 60 people

    Important Information

    • Reservations are required and must be made at least 14 days in advance.
    • Includes General Admission to the museum on the same day as the tour.

     
    Book Now! VIP Private Tour

    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.

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!