Maritime Museum of San Diego

The Basics

The collection of ships creates an engaging environment not found in many maritime museums. Each vessel hosts its own exhibits, from those focused on the Navy to that of commercial fishing, early sailing explorers, and more. Plus, the museum’s many ships are more than just relics—they are functioning sailing vessels. Take a historic bay cruise aboard Pilot, embark on a sailing adventure on the schooner Californian, and see the ship that starred in Pirates of the Carribean.

Things to Know Before You Go

The museum is a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts.
You can add a bay cruise to your museum admission for a small fee.
While much of the museum is wheelchair accessible, some areas are not due to historic construction.
If you are traveling with a group of 10 or more people, you can book a docent-led tour.

How to Get There

The museum is located just off I-5 on Harbor Drive. From the interstate, take the Airport exit and follow signs for Embarcadero-Maritime Museum. The museum is located 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the international airport and within walking distance of the cruise ship terminal. You can also reach the museum on the San Diego Trolley.

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Exploring San Diego’s Waterfront

A visit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego is just the start of the seaside attractions you can explore along San Diego's Embarcadero. Less than a mile south of the maritime museum you can shop and dine at Seaport Village. Between the two, stop in at the USS Midway Museum and enjoy photo opportunities and public art displays along the way.

Recent reviews from experiences in San Diego

Will be back !

Kimberly_G, Nov 2021

San Diego One Hour Harbor Cruise

Staff was so friendly and knowledgeable. Very kind to me and my children. Facilities clean and very nice. Tour time was great, had a nice fun family time .

Great food, romantic moments in a safe environment

Tom_K, Aug 2021

San Diego Premier Dinner Cruise

It was a great experience. Food and drinks were great and felt safe in terms of COVID virus as well. We would love to come back again.

Our Captain, Kyle, was...

Hannan_P, Nov 2021

Luxury Sunset Sail Experience on San Diego Bay - Small Group

Our Captain, Kyle, was wonderful! Knowledgeable and had us comfortable aboard the boat. We enjoyed our sail greatly!

Captain Liz made all the difference!

Julie_M, Nov 2021

STERLING SAILS 2 Hour Private Sailing Experience in San Diego Bay

We had a great afternoon! Loved that for a price comparable to sharing a boat with others, we could have it for just our family. Liz created an individualized experience, giving us an up close sea lion encounter and sharing information about the area and her experiences -very entertaining with plenty of laughs.

Perfect week end

Judith_W, Oct 2021

Beautiful evening, awesome boat, felt like a private charter. Perfect way to end a week in San Diego.

Amazing sail with Captain Philip with one L

Connie_S, Oct 2021

Small Group San Diego Day Sail

It was my first sail ever and what an amazing experience. Will definitely recommend to all my friends. It actually brought me to tears😊

Awesome

Alexis_R, Oct 2021

What a great tour, The captain was very professional , we sailing on time and the weather was awesome. Thank you captain Philip for a great time .

Good company, beautiful atmosphere

Rasheen_D, Oct 2021

San Diego Harbor Sunset Sailing Tours and Professional Sailing Lessons

Great company were the hosts of this tour. Very knowledgeable! Funny and a great time. Very down to earth. They made sure they took good of their guests!

Sailing trip

Rosalie_D, Oct 2021

Exceeded my expectations. My husband and I enjoyed the trip and was a beautiful afternoon on the water.

Fun Day

Edith_H, Sep 2021

San Diego Shore Excursion: San Diego Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley

Our tour guide, Tommy, was interactive with the guest and his sprinkles of humor made things more enjoyable.

The trip around the bay...

Lee_D, Sep 2021

Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket

The trip around the bay was great. Kiki the narrator was fabulous. Going in the old ships was like stepping back in time!

Loved the 2 hour...

Manoj_S, Sep 2021

Loved the 2 hour excursion. Liz is an awesome host, boat is very well maintained ,and she is very thoughtful about the needs of the guests. I highly recommend it.