Set out on a captivating adventure aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California. This 4-hour sailing experience allows visitors to actively participate in sailing while learning about San Diego’s rich maritime history and the gold rush era. With engaging crew members guiding the way, it’s an unforgettable journey through California’s seafaring heritage, combining hands-on learning with breathtaking views of the coastline. But the excitement doesn’t end there, as admission to the renowned Maritime Museum is included, providing a deeper dive into the region’s nautical past.
This experience made our list of the 25 Best Sailing Experiences In San Diego.
Key Points
- Sail aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, on a 4-hour historical adventure cruise exploring San Diego’s gold rush era maritime history.
- Actively participate in sailing operations, including manning the helm and hauling lines, for a hands-on educational experience.
- Gain insight into San Diego’s rich seafaring heritage through guided history lessons from the knowledgeable crew.
- Explore the Maritime Museum of San Diego to discover its renowned collection, including the world’s oldest active sailing ship, the Star of India.
- The experience is suitable for adults 18-99 or accompanied minors, with convenient access via car, public transport, or bicycle.
Overview of the Experience
Set out on a historical adventure aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California. This 4-hour cruise costs $119.00 per person and includes entry to the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Guided by a live tour guide in English, the experience transports you back in time to the gold rush era. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can secure a full refund if your plans change.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tall ship sailing adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore California’s rich maritime history and culture.
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Sailing on the Californian
Participants aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California, can expect to actively engage in the sailing experience. The crew welcomes guests to man the helm, haul lines, and observe the intricate process of setting and furling sails.
Sailing on this replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter offers a unique opportunity to:
- Learn about the history of sailing, exploration, and local maritime tales.
- Gain hands-on experience as part of the crew.
- Appreciate the skilled navigation and seamanship of the ship’s operators.
- Develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs of maritime adventures.
This interactive experience allows guests to enjoy the rich history and traditions of tall ship sailing.
Crew Participation and History Lessons
Guests aboard the Californian don’t just observe; they get to actively participate in the ship’s operations. As part of the crew, guests can try their hand at manning the helm, hauling lines, and watching the crew set and furl the sails.
The knowledgeable crew shares the history of sailing, exploration, and local maritime tales, providing a truly immersive experience. Passengers learn about the gold rush era revenue cutter they’re sailing on and gain a deeper appreciation for San Diego’s rich seafaring heritage.
Admission to the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich maritime history. Included with the Californian tall ship cruise, visitors can enjoy the museum’s impressive collection of historic ships and engaging exhibits.
The museum features four key highlights:
- The Star of India, a historic 1863 sailing ship that’s the world’s oldest active sailing ship.
- The H.M.S. Surprise, a replica of an 18th-century Royal Navy frigate featured in the film "Master and Commander."
- Exhibits chronicling San Diego’s naval history and the Age of Sail and Steam.
- Interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about navigational tools, shipbuilding, and maritime technology.
Exploring the Maritime Museum complements the hands-on sailing experience, providing a well-rounded understanding of California’s nautical past.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExhibits and Collections at the Museum
The Maritime Museum of San Diego‘s extensive collection features a diverse array of exhibits that captivate visitors.
Explore the museum’s centerpiece, the historic Star of India, a legendary tall ship that has voyaged the seas for over 150 years.
Discover the H.M.S. Surprise, a tall ship replica used in the filming of the movie "Master and Commander."
Explore the history of San Diego’s naval influence through interactive displays and artifacts.
Step back in time and learn about the Age of Sail and Age of Steam, uncovering the region’s rich maritime legacy.
With a wealth of exhibits and interactive experiences, the Maritime Museum offers a captivating glimpse into California’s nautical past.
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Visitor Information and Requirements
Participants must be adults aged 18 to 99 or accompanied children 17 and younger.
The cruise isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
To check-in, guests should head to the white info/ticket booth in front of the Berkeley Steam Ferry at the Maritime Museum.
Recommended items to bring include:
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen and water
Prohibited items include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, drugs, and unaccompanied minors.
Guests can enjoy a full refund with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customer Ratings and Recommendations
Customers have thoroughly enjoyed their experiences aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of California. Based on 3 reviews, the cruise has earned a 5/5 rating.
Travelers recommend actively participating in the sailing experience, which they found educational and worth the ticket price. Many expressed gratitude to the crew for providing a memorable day.
Visitors suggest taking time to explore the impressive collection of historic ships at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, including the Star of India and H.M.S Surprise.
Getting to the Maritime Museum
Visitors can easily access the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which is conveniently located at 1492 North Harbor Drive.
The museum is accessible by various modes of transportation:
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By car: Ample parking is available at the museum’s parking lot, with hourly and daily rates.
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By public transit: The museum is a short walk from the Santa Fe Depot station, served by the Coaster, Amtrak, and San Diego Trolley.
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By bike: Bicycle racks are available on-site, making it a great option for eco-friendly travel.
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On foot: The museum is within walking distance from many downtown San Diego attractions and hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Military?
Discounts for seniors and military are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. Customers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any special pricing or discounts that may be available.
What Is the Policy for Bringing Your Own Food and Drinks?
Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the cruise. However, alcohol consumption is prohibited. Coolers and picnics can be enjoyed before or after the tour on the museum grounds.
Are There Any Storage Lockers or Designated Areas for Personal Belongings?
The tour does not provide designated storage areas or lockers for personal belongings. Guests are advised to securely store any valuables and keep belongings with them during the sailing experience.
Is the Sailing Experience Appropriate for Young Children Under 5 Years Old?
The sailing experience may not be suitable for young children under 5. The ship’s narrow decks and active crew duties pose potential safety risks for very young passengers. Families with small children may want to consider alternative maritime activities better suited for their needs.
How Long Does the Museum Tour Typically Take to Complete?
The Maritime Museum tour typically takes 1-2 hours to fully explore. Visitors can spend as much or as little time as desired exploring the museum’s extensive collection of historic ships and maritime exhibits.
Recap
Enjoy California’s seafaring heritage by embarking on the Californian, the Official Tall Ship, and exploring the Maritime Museum’s captivating collection. This unforgettable 4-hour adventure offers hands-on sailing, engaging historical insights, and breathtaking views, making it a must-do for anyone seeking to discover San Diego’s rich maritime past.
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