Tall Ship Adventure aboard the Schooner Californian with General Admission

Help steer and sail one of San Diego’s iconic tall ships, the Schooner Californian, on this engaging 4-hour group adventure. Priced at $119 per person, this tour combines hands-on sailing with a visit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego. With a maximum group size of 40, it offers an intimate yet lively experience suitable for families and sea enthusiasts alike. The tour departs from 1492 N Harbor Dr at 11:30 am, making it ideal for mid-morning explorers seeking a blend of adventure and learning.

While the tour offers a memorable chance to help sail the schooner, some reviews suggest that the narration about ships and local sights might vary in depth. Still, the crew’s expertise and the chance to haul sails, man the helm, and learn about maritime history make this experience a standout for those wanting to engage directly with a tall ship. The total experience, including the self-guided museum exploration, provides a well-rounded glimpse into San Diego’s seafaring past.

Key Points

• Hands-on sailing experience aboard the Schooner Californian, a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter
• Includes a self-guided tour of the Maritime Museum of San Diego
• Duration of the adventure is approximately 4 hours, starting at 11:30 am
• Group size is capped at 40 participants for a more personalized experience
• Suitable for families, with everyone encouraged to help sail
• The tour departs from 1492 N Harbor Dr and ends back at the same point

Sailing a Tall Ship in San Diego’s Harbor

The Schooner Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter, and it proudly serves as the official tall ship of California. The 4-hour adventure lets you join the crew in sailing this traditionally rigged vessel. Passengers are invited to haul lines, steer the helm, and observe crew members scampering up the rigging to set and furl sails. This active participation makes the experience dynamic and engaging, especially for those curious about traditional sailing techniques.

The sailing route takes you through San Diego harbor, offering views of the city skyline and maritime surroundings. The crew shares stories about local maritime exploration, whaling, sea otter trade, and historic sea battles, adding a layer of educational depth to the journey. Some reviews note that narration may be less detailed at times, but the interactive nature of the sail compensates fully.

What You Can Do on the Californian

During the sailing segment, passengers get the chance to help raise and lower sails, haul lines, and man the helm. The crew’s expertise is evident, and they share insights into the art of firing a ship’s cannon and life at sea. This hands-on approach ensures that everyone, regardless of age or experience level, can participate actively.

The crew’s friendly and professional attitude is often highlighted, with some reviews mentioning their fabulous efforts in making the experience fun and informative. However, a few guests find the seating to be less comfortable during the sail, especially while entering and leaving the harbor, so a sense of adventure and patience are recommended.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour starts at 1492 N Harbor Dr in San Diego, a location that is easy to reach via public transportation. The meeting time is 11:30 am, and the activity ends back at the same point, making logistics straightforward. Since the group is limited to 40, it’s advisable to book at least 33 days in advance to secure a spot, as this is a popular tour option.

Weather conditions can affect the experience; if the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled, in which case participants are offered an alternative date or a full refund. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions and some climbing as part of the ship experience.

Visiting the Maritime Museum of San Diego

The self-guided tour of the Maritime Museum is included in the ticket. Visitors can explore a diverse fleet, from sails and steam-powered vessels to a submarine. The exhibits below deck provide a comprehensive look at San Diego’s maritime history, enriching the sailing experience.

Guests are encouraged to visit the museum either before or after their sail, allowing ample time to explore. The museum’s historic fleet and interactive exhibits add educational value to the overall outing, making it a rewarding visit for history buffs and families alike.

The Crew and Guide Experience

The crew members on the Schooner Californian are praised for their fabulous teamwork and historical narration. While some reviews express a desire for more detailed commentary about the ship and local sights, the crew’s enthusiasm and knowledge help keep the atmosphere lively.

The docents aboard share historical perspectives and sailing stories, adding depth to the narrative. Their friendly approach makes the experience accessible and engaging, especially for younger participants or those new to sailing.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Some guests find the seats on the schooner to be less comfortable, especially during the harbor entry and exit. The climbing down ladders and outdoor conditions may not suit everyone, so physical readiness and patience are advised.

The narration about San Diego sights and ship history may vary in depth, which could disappoint those seeking more detailed storytelling. However, the interactive sailing aspect and crew’s expertise provide enough engagement to compensate.

Booking and Refund Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed, emphasizing the importance of confirming plans in advance. If bad weather causes cancellation, participants are either offered a different date or full refund. The minimum number of participants is required for the tour to run, so early booking helps ensure availability.

Final Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

The Tall Ship Adventure aboard the Schooner Californian offers a hands-on sailing experience combined with a self-guided museum visit, ideal for families, maritime enthusiasts, and history lovers. The interactive sailing and friendly crew make it an engaging way to spend part of a day in San Diego.

While the seating comfort and narration depth may vary, the overall experience delivers value and learning for those interested in traditional sailing and local maritime history. The location, group size, and inclusion of museum access make this tour a well-rounded choice for a memorable harbor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and all participants can help with sailing tasks, making it an engaging experience for children and their guardians.

What should I wear for the sailing?
Participants should dress comfortably for outdoor conditions and be prepared for possible wind and sun. No specific gear is mentioned, but layering and sun protection are recommended.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves climbing ladders and outdoor activity, so those with mobility restrictions should consider their comfort level before booking.

Is the maritime museum visit included in the ticket?
Yes, a self-guided tour of the Maritime Museum of San Diego is included, offering access to the historic fleet and exhibits below deck.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, guests are offered a reschedule or full refund.