Maritime Museum of San Diego in San Diego, CA

Maritime Museum of San DiegoSan Diego, CA 92101
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Overview

One of the finest collections of historic ships across the globe, Maritime Museum of San Diego offers exceptional exhibits, daily public tours, cultural events, educational programs and more for the whole family to enjoy. The museum is located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego and is also home to the world’s oldest active ship—Star of India.

1 or more people

Good To Know

  • Parking fees apply.
  • Self-guided tour.
  • Tour duration: approx. 2 hours.
  • Home to the world’s oldest active ship, the Star of India.

Description

Experience one of the world’s leading collections of historic ships at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Known internationally for its preservation and operation of classic vessels, the museum features the Star of India, the oldest active sailing ship in the world, alongside a fleet of restored steamers, yachts, and naval replicas.

Step aboard the 1898 steam ferry Berkeley, the 1904 steam yacht Medea, and the 1914 harbor pilot boat Pilot. Visit Californian, the official tall ship of California, and walk the decks of H.M.S. Surprise, an 18th-century frigate replica featured in the film Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World.

Rotating and permanent exhibitions explore maritime history, commerce, and exploration. The on-site MacMullen Library and Research Archives supports global scholars and enthusiasts with access to rare materials, while the museum’s quarterly publication, Mains’l Haul, promotes the academic study of Pacific maritime history.

Founded in 1948 and rooted in early 20th-century preservation efforts, the museum remains a vibrant hub for naval heritage. Volunteers and skilled craftsmen continue to maintain its historic fleet, with the Star of India sailing annually as a tribute to living maritime tradition.
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Maritime Museum of San Diego is located at Maritime Museum of San DiegoSan Diego, CA 92101
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Frequently Asked Questions about Maritime Museum of San Diego

What are the hours of operation?

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. daily. Museum Ticket Booth closes at 4:00 p.m. Last guest admission 4:00 p.m. daily. Hours of operation are subject to change and may vary with special events.

Is museum parking available onsite?

No. However, there are multiple parking spaces and lots located around the museum: (1) Metered Port Parking Spaces: The lot directly in front of the Maritime Museum has Port of San Diego metered spaces. They are enforced 10:00 am – 8:00 pm from Monday – Sunday and are good for up to 3 hours. Port does routinely check if a car has been parked for longer than 3 hours and will ticket. The 3-hour time limit applies to Sundays on Port parking. (2) Day Lots: There are also several day lots (pay to park) within a few blocks of the museum including: - County garage across the street holds about 257 cars, pricing varies from $10-$20 per car. - The Midway lot is open to the public. - Take the trolley. Trolley stations have lots at El Cajon, Amaya, Grossmont, Qualcom, Mission Valley, Fashion Valley, and Old Town. - Rideshare and public transportation MTS bus systems are other alternatives.

Is the museum appropriate for all ages?

Yes.

What exhibits are at the museum?

The museum general admission includes entry to temporary and permanent exhibits including: - Wish You Were Here - Wind & Water - Swift Boats At War In Vietnam - Charting The Sea - Age of Sail - Age Of Steam - Harvesting The Ocean - San Diego's Navy - And more