The world-renown Maritime Museum of San Diego was founded in 1948, by a group of local historians and maritime experts. Here visitors from around the globe come to walk the decks of the magnificent Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Built in 1863, the Star of India made her first voyage on November 14 of that year.

Approximate Time to Allow: 1 hour

Maritime Museum

The best way to see the Big Bay, as it is referred to by the locals in San Diego, is hopping on board a Harbor Cruise. While cruising in the North Bay, visitors will hear an informative narrative about the San Diego bay and experience picturesque views along with historic sights like the North Island Naval Air Station, the United States Naval Submarine Base and Point Loma. Those that choose the South Bay cruise get the opportunity to see the Coronado Bay Bridge, the bustling Navy Shipyards and the surface fleet. To enjoy everything harbor cruises have to offer, the North and South cruises can be combined into one tour.

Approximate Time to Allow: 1 and 2 hour cruises

Witness the astounding grace and beauty of the gray whales as they migrate from the chilly arctic to the warm waters of Southern California. On this three and a half-hour adventure visitors are treated to a fact-filled narrative by experienced Captains who ensure that the whales are spotted. Guests are also likely to see dolphins, sea lions and other marine species as they travel along the marvelous San Diego Bay. An enthralling experience of a lifetime, Whale Watching Excursions are available December through March.

Approximate Time to Allow: 3 1/2 hours
Seasonal (December - March)

For an exhilarating, awe-inspiring experience, embark on a sailing excursion aboard one of the America’s Cup Yachts. Next Level Sailing offers two-hour sailing adventures on board two 80-foot International America’s Cup Class racing yachts. Whether sailing on the Stars & Stripes or the Abracadabra, these vessels definitely take boating to a whole new level. These exquisite boats offer a thrilling ride in the San Diego Bay, where you’ll view gorgeous coastal scenery, marine life and significant points of interest. It’s a fast-paced excursion that visitors from across the globe enjoy year-round.

Approximate Time to Allow: 2 1/2 hours

The USS Midway Aircraft Carrier sits in San Diego at the Navy Pier welcoming and enriching guests from around the world. Its patriotic service and military operations are brought to life throughout this interactive museum. Relive the legacy of the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Naval history-47 years! “Midway Magic” became a recognized term describing the amazing tenacity of the Midway and its crew.

Approximate Time to Allow: 3-4 hours

Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

A visit to the San Diego Harbor is not complete without a stroll through the Embarcadero Marina Park. Surrounded by the bay on three sides, the Embarcadero Marina provides scenic views and fresh sea air, an authentic San Diego experience. Visitors also get a chance to discover the loyalty and courage of many of our Naval Military personnel through various memorials and statues including, the Aircraft Carrier Memorial, The Homecoming Statue, and the USS San Diego Memorial.

Approximate Time to Allow: depends on your strolling time.

Westin San Diego
Distance to Trolley Stop: Aprx 5 blocks
400 W. Broadway
(619) 239-4500

Sheraton San Diego
Distance to Trolley Stop: Aprx 2 miles
Trolley Shuttle Service Available
1380 Harbor Island Drive • (619) 291-2900

Holiday Inn on the Bay
Distance to Trolley Stop: Aprx 2 blocks
1355 N. Harbor Drive
(619) 232-4924