Sailing Adventures
Sailing aboard a tall ship or one of the fastest sailboats out there is one of the most exhilarating experiences to be found in the San Diego area.
The Californian is a replica of a revenue cutter – an armed maritime law enforcement vessel – that patrolled the coast during the California Gold Rush. A topsail schooner built for speed, the Californian carries 7,000 square feet of canvas, measures 145 feet in length and weighs 130 tons. In July 2003, she was designated the Official Tall Ship of the State of California.
The America heralds back to the first America's Cup Race. Taking a page from history, the America is sleek, fast, stable, luxurious, and beautiful. So confident are the captain and crew of this beautiful ship, that they guarantee that you will not get seasick as you slice through the San Diego waters. So, book your passage and enjoy an experience you won't soon forget.
Our 1914 Pilot is a completely different type of experience. As you board the oldest working pilot boat on the west coast, her sturdy, no nonsense, stability will immediately put you at ease. She will make your Historic Cruise on San Diego Bay a memorable experience.
Adventure Package- a sailing experience!
The ADVENTURE PACKAGE includes a four-hour day sail aboard the schooner Californian along with admission to the museum and its fleet of historic ships. Boarding begins at Noon. Sailings depart the museum at 12:30 p.m. and return at 4:30.
To book your Adventure Package:
1) Check the SAILING SCHEDULE and determine your sail day
2) PURCHASE ADVANCED TICKETS ON LINE or by calling 619-234-9153 ext 101 M - F 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
-or-
3) Purchase your tickets at the Maritime Museum of San Diego ticket booth on the Embarcadero-Day of sail only.
We suggest you arrive at least two hours prior to departure (if purchasing walk-up-tickets) or one hour before departure time (advance sales) to ensure your place on board. Remember: Your ticket also includes admission to the museum and our fleet of historic ships so leave plenty of time to enjoy the other ships and the exhibits on board.
Whale Watching on Yacht, AMERICA
This is a rare opportunity for a select few and available daily, from December 19, 2009 to April 21, 2010 Join us and sail in the luxury of the historic yacht 'America' during the peak of the Pacific Oceans Whale migration.
This is no ordinary 'whale watching' experience as it will be presented with an educational and historical perspective and engaged on an ecological and exhilerating platform. The "America's Cup" is named after the magnificent 139 ft yacht and a sail upon her is a "once in a lifetime" thrill.
Departs: Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 North Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101
Included: Light snacks, sodas, water & ice, whale watching narration, as well as admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego and all of its available ships and exhibits.
CLICK HERE for more information or
CLICK HERE for making reservations online through our partner, Dennis Connor's America's Cup Experience or by calling them directly at 800-644-3454
Discovery Package- Historic Bay Cruise on Pilot
Only a $3.00 upgrade to regular admission!
Don't miss this unique adventure! Board the oldest working pilot boat around and head out for a narrated Historic Cruise on San Diego Bay. Check-out the sights, history, wildlife, and relax; letting our crew do all of the work as you enjoy the ride (just under an hour).
SAVE with our Internet special: DISCOVERY PACKAGE.
Catalina Adventure Sailing
Looking for a cruise with more substance? Set sail to the beautiful waters surrounding Catalina Island aboard the schooner Californian. Each voyage offers a unique perspective on seamanship, maritime history and the awesome beauty of the Pacific.
Our next Catalina Adventure Sail will be in the spring of 2010
CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION on Catalina Adventure Sailing
California Coastal Voyages
Journey with us as we set sail for some of the most beautiful spots along California’s coast – aboard the schooner Californian.
Departure from San Diego: June 21, 2010
Returning to San Diego: July 1, 2010
Join us as we sail to the islands of CHANNEL ILSANDS NATIONAL PARK. This voyage will be similar in nature to our 2009 expedition, although it will not be as rigorous or as demanding as last years expedition class voyage was. This year, we are excluding the U.S. Navy protected islands of San Clemente or San Nicholas from the itinerary.
CLICK HERE for information on the 2010 Coastal Voyage
What to bring on a Day Sail
- Sunscreen or sunblock
- Closed toed, non-slip soled shoes
- Sunglasses
- Hat for sun protection and or warmth (should stay on in a stiff breeze)
- Jacket that will protect you from cold and wind (the wind chill factor can be 15 degrees cooler then the land temperature.)
- Camera & film
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is sea sickness an issue?
- We recommend that if you have any doubt, you take preventive measures before hand. (Bonine, Dramamine, etc.)
- Can I bring my own drinks?
- Alcohol is prohibited. Do not bring your personal beverages aboard. We have them on board.
- What happens in the case of bad weather?
- Wind and weather are not under control and the trip may be rescheduled or cut short should conditions prohibit safe passage. If weather conditions are poor on the date of your sail, please call for updates.
- How many guests are on board?
- Maximum 45 passengers aboard the Californian.
- Can I participate in Sailing the ship?
- Yes! We encourage participation. It's up to you, your ambitions, abilities and attitude. The captain will have ultimate control of the ship and its crews movements.
- Is there food on board?
- Yes. We have water, soft drinks and light snacks for sale on board. Coolers are NOT permitted on board for the safety of passengers and crew. Passengers are allowed to bring bagged food only on board.
- What is the seating on the Californian like?
- Limited, as the ship is a sailing vessel. But there are areas both below deck and topside that are available to relax. Please do not bring chairs.
- What do you do when you have a baby on board (a 1-year-old)?
- For safety reasons, we suggest you hold the child. This might create some problems in going below deck, as the stairs are steep. But crewmembers and docents are available to help, if needed.
- Does everyone wear life jackets, including the baby?
- No, they are up to you as an individual to determine whether you want to wear one. Just ask as you board, if you prefer to wear one. Life jackets are provided as required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Coast Guard regulations require us have life jackets available, but they are not required to be worn.
- Can you go below deck, or does everyone stay above the whole time?
- This is completely up to you. Most persons enjoy the topside areas of the sailing experience, but the restrooms and snack bar are below deck.