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 Sail - an exhilarating experience!
The ADVENTURE SAIL 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.
Book your Adventure Sail now:
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.
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.
Catalina Adventure Sail
on tall ship, Californian
Our next Catalina Adventure Sail will be July 23rd-26st
Looking for a sailing adventure that is an incredible experience? 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.
CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION on Catalina Adventure Sail,
July 23rd-26st!
Discovery Package - Enjoy a Historic Bay Cruise on Pilot
Only a $3.00 upgrade with General 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 NOW with the: DISCOVERY PACKAGE INTERNET SPECIAL.
San Diego Sunset Sail on Yacht America
This fantastic adventure is offered May through August each year.
Board the classic yacht America and indulge in a relaxing sail as the sun sinks slowly in the west. The America will cast off from the Maritime Museum of San Diego and sail off into the beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay.
YOUR TICKET ALSO INCLUDES: Entrance to the Maritime Museum of San Diego and all its historic ships and exhibits. Come early that day to visit the museum and its exhibits.
CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION on Sunset Sail aboard yacht America
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.
Spots for July 2010 sail have been filled, next sailing dates still to be announced
Join us as we sail to the islands of CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK. This voyage will be an expedition of discovery of California's seldom visited Channel Islands. If you want to enjoy true island hopping combined with a real sailing experience, do not miss this excursion.
CLICK HERE for information on California Coastal Voyage
Whale Watching on Yacht America
This is a rare opportunity for a select few and only available, typically from December to April. Join us and sail in the luxury of the historic yacht America during the peak of the Pacific Oceans Whale migration.
Once Whales are migrating, date & times will be posted
for the 2010/2011 whale watching season
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.