San Diego: Californian Tall Ship Sailing and Maritime Museum

Set out on a captivating journey through San Diego’s rich maritime history aboard the Californian, a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter. This 4-hour sailing adventure offers participants a chance to enjoy hands-on activities and gain insights into the region’s seafaring past, from whaling to sea battles. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the experience also includes admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, where visitors can explore historic ships like the iconic Star of India. Get ready to uncover the secrets of San Diego’s nautical legacy.

Key Points

• The Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter, offering guests a chance to participate in sailing activities and learn about San Diego’s maritime history.
• The 4-hour sailing experience includes a guided tour, hands-on sailing activities, and captivating tales of San Diego’s past, such as whaling and sea battles.
• Admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego is included, where visitors can explore historic ships like the Star of India and H.M.S. Surprise.
• Recommended items for the sailing experience include comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water, ensuring a pleasant and safe adventure.
• The sailing experience and museum visit provide a comprehensive maritime experience, enhancing visitors’ understanding of the skills required to operate a tall ship and San Diego’s evolution as a naval hub.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, offers a 4-hour sailing experience for visitors.

The Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, offers a 4-hour sailing experience for visitors.

Led by a live tour guide, guests can participate in sailing activities like hauling lines, manning the helm, and observing the crew set and furl the sails.

Along the way, they’ll learn about San Diego’s rich maritime history, including tales of whaling, sea battles, and life at sea.

Priced from $119 per person, the tour also includes admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The Californian: A Replica of a Gold Rush Era Revenue Cutter

Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter, transporting visitors back in time to experience the maritime history of San Diego.

Onboard, guests can:

1. Participate in sailing activities like hauling lines, manning the helm, and observing the crew set and furl sails.

2. Learn about San Diego’s whaling, sea battles, and life at sea from the knowledgeable crew.

3. Gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and hardships faced by sailors during the age of sail.

This authentic sailing experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the maritime legacy of the city.

Sailing Activities and Maritime History

As guests board the Californian, they have the opportunity to participate in a range of sailing activities that immerse them in San Diego’s rich maritime history. Crew members guide participants in hauling lines, manning the helm, and observing the setting and furling of sails. Through these hands-on experiences, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges and skills required to operate a tall ship. Complementing the sailing activities, the crew also shares captivating tales of San Diego’s past, including stories of whaling, sea battles, and life at sea during the age of sail.

| Sailing Activities | Maritime History |

|——————–|——————–|

| Haul lines | Whaling |

| Man the helm | Sea battles |

| Observe sail setting & furling | Life at sea |

Exploring the Maritime Museum of San Diego

Included with the sailing experience is admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, allowing guests to explore its diverse exhibits and learn about the region’s rich naval history.

Visitors can:

1. Discover the museum’s star attraction, the impressive Star of India, a 150-year-old square-rigged sailing ship.

2. Step aboard the H.M.S. Surprise, a replica of an 18th-century Royal Navy frigate featured in the film "Master and Commander."

3. Explore the museum’s collection of interactive exhibits that chronicle San Diego’s evolution from a small fishing village to a major naval hub.

Through these engaging displays, the museum offers a comprehensive maritime experience beyond the tall ship sailing adventure.

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Preparing for the Sailing Experience

To make the most of the tall ship sailing experience, guests should arrive at the designated meeting point with the appropriate attire and essentials. The Maritime Museum’s white info/ticket booth in front of the Berkeley Steam Ferry serves as the check-in location. Recommended items include:

| Item | Reason |

| — | — |

| Comfortable shoes | For ease of movement during sailing activities |

| Sunglasses | To protect eyes from glare |

| Sun hat | To shield from sun exposure |

| Sunscreen | To prevent sunburn |

| Water | To stay hydrated |

| Comfortable clothes | For a comfortable sailing experience |

Guests should also note that certain items, such as weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs, are not allowed on the ship.

What to Expect on the Sailing Tour

When guests step aboard the Californian, they’ll have the opportunity to participate in the sailing activities and learn about San Diego’s maritime history directly from the knowledgeable crew.

The experience includes:

1. Hands-on involvement: Guests can haul lines, man the helm, and observe the crew setting and furling sails, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art of tall ship sailing.

2. Historical storytelling: The crew shares captivating tales of whaling, sea battles, and life at sea, bringing San Diego’s nautical past to life.

3. Immersive exploration: Guests can explore the Maritime Museum’s exhibits, including the iconic Star of India and HMS Surprise, for a comprehensive understanding of the region’s maritime heritage.

Positive Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlight the engaging, educational, and enjoyable nature of the sailing tour and maritime museum experience.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic crew, who bring San Diego’s maritime history to life through captivating tales of whaling, sea battles, and life at sea.

The knowledgeable and enthusiastic crew captivates with tales of San Diego’s maritime history, from whaling to sea battles.

Participants of all ages find the sailing activities, such as hauling lines and manning the helm, to be both fun and informative.

The included admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego is also a major draw, as visitors can explore exhibits on the Navy, the Age of Sail, and the Age of Steam.

Making the Most of Your Visit

How can visitors make the most of their sailing and museum experience? Consider these three tips:

1. Participate Actively: Engage with the crew and take part in sailing activities like hauling lines, manning the helm, and observing the sails.

This hands-on involvement will enhance your understanding of maritime history and appreciation for the Californian’s gold rush era design.

2. Explore the Museum Thoroughly: Allocate time to thoroughly explore the exhibits at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.

From the Star of India to the H.M.S. Surprise, each display offers insights into San Diego’s naval heritage and the Age of Sail.

3. Bring Essentials: Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, and a light lunch to ensure you’re prepared for the day’s adventure on the high seas and in the museum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Sailing Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Californian Tall Ship sailing tour. The rules prohibit bringing weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, and unaccompanied minors, as well as pets, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Is the Sailing Tour Wheelchair-Accessible?

The sailing tour is wheelchair-accessible. The tall ship Californian has a ramp and elevator for easy boarding and disembarking for guests with mobility challenges. Accommodations can be made to ensure a comfortable and inclusive sailing experience.

Do I Need Prior Sailing Experience to Participate?

No prior sailing experience is needed to participate in the Californian tall ship sailing tour. The crew provides instructions and guidance, allowing guests to actively engage in sailing activities regardless of their experience level.

Can I Take Photos During the Sailing Tour?

Yes, passengers are welcome to take photos during the sailing tour. The crew encourages guests to capture their experience and the scenic views of the ship and surrounding San Diego harbor.

Is There a Dress Code for the Sailing Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the sailing tour. The recommended attire is comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes. Dressing in layers is advised as the weather can be variable on the water.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through San Diego’s nautical legacy aboard the Californian. Engage in hands-on activities, learn about maritime history, and explore the Maritime Museum’s historic ships. With stunning views and engaging stories, this sailing adventure offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich maritime heritage of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: