Celebrate Star of India’s 162nd Birthday with Free Dockside Access

The Maritime Museum of San Diego invites the public to celebrate the 162nd birthday of the world’s oldest active sailing ship, the Star of India, with complimentary dockside access on November 14, 2025. This unique event offers visitors a chance to explore the historic vessel from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with free entry available to walk-up guests.

In addition to gaining access to the ship, attendees can enjoy complimentary birthday cake served by museum volunteers starting at noon, while supplies last. Donations are encouraged to support the museum’s initiatives, or visitors can opt for an upgrade to a general admission ticket. This ticket allows access to the entire Maritime Museum fleet and exhibits, which include galleries located below deck that are typically unseen from the Embarcadero.

A Legacy of Nautical History

The Star of India, originally named Euterpe after the Greek goddess of music and poetry, was built in 1863 and has made an impressive twenty-one circumnavigations of the globe. The vessel arrived in San Diego in 1927, and the Maritime Museum began significant restoration efforts in 1951 to preserve her historical integrity.

The 501 nonprofit organization relies heavily on the support of its members, volunteers, and visitors to maintain the Star of India and its collection of historic vessels. The museum is recognized as one of the nation’s top attractions, offering a wide range of experiences, including self-guided tours, docent-led group tours, tall ship charters, and historic bay cruises.

Visitor Information and Ticketing

General admission tickets for the Maritime Museum are priced at $28 for adults, $20 for seniors and military personnel, and $15 for youth aged 6 to 17. Children aged five and under can enter for free. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Maritime Museum’s ticket booth located at Star of India Wharf, 1492 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101-3309.

The museum operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last guest entry accepted at 4 p.m. This birthday celebration not only honors the rich history of the Star of India but also emphasizes the importance of community support in preserving maritime heritage. Attendees are encouraged to participate and contribute to this significant cultural event.