An iron-hulled sailing ship launched in 1863 on the Isle of Man, now the world's oldest active sailing ship, anchored on the San Diego Embarcadero.
The Star of India, moored at 1492 North Harbor Drive on the San Diego Embarcadero in California, is an iron-hulled sailing ship launched in 1863 on the Isle of Man under the name Euterpe. Built by Gibson, McDonald and Arnold of Ramsey, she is recognized as the oldest active sailing ship in the world. Her early career carried cargo to India, and she survived a dramatic collision with an iceberg and a mutiny during early voyages. From the 1870s she served on the emigrant route to New Zealand, carrying thousands of settlers from Britain over more than 20 voyages. In 1901 she was sold to American owners, renamed Star of India, and sailed in the Alaska salmon trade, carrying cannery workers and supplies between San Francisco and Alaska. She was retired in the 1920s and bought by San Diego citizens in 1927 for use as a museum. After decades of decline she was restored in the 1960s and 1970s, and in 1976 she sailed again under her own canvas for the first time in 50 years. Since then she has made occasional sail-outs, which are announced by the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Visitors can walk the main deck, descend to the steerage and cabin areas, and see exhibits on emigrant life and the Alaska trade. The ship is a barque with an iron frame and riveted plate hull, tall masts and miles of rigging, and ongoing maintenance by volunteer riggers keeps her in sailing condition. Her interpretation is chronological, following each stage of her career. Admission is part of the Maritime Museum ticket, and the ship is generally open daily from about 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The surrounding waterfront offers views of the other museum vessels and the harbor.
| Admission | Included with Maritime Museum admission |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, generally 10:00 AM-5:00 PM |
| Address | 1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 |
Why it matters
Launched in 1863, she is the world's oldest active sailing ship and a rare survivor of the iron-hull emigrant ships that carried settlers to New Zealand.
Location
1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
32.7208, -117.1736 View on map
Highlights
- World's oldest active sailing ship, launched in 1863
- Emigrant steerage and cabin exhibits from the New Zealand voyages
- Alaska salmon trade history
- Restored rigging and the 1976 return to sail
- Included with Maritime Museum admission
Tips for visiting
- Ticket access is shared with the Maritime Museum, so visit the other vessels the same day.
- Check the museum calendar for occasional sail-outs, which sell out early.
- Wear flat shoes with grip, as decks and ladders can be slippery.
- Weekday mornings are quieter on board.
- Head below deck to see the emigrant quarters, often overlooked.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the Star of India take?
About 30 to 45 minutes for the ship, or two to three hours with the whole museum.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the decks, though ladders and tight spaces need supervision.
Is the ship still sailing?
Occasionally. She makes limited sail-outs each year, announced by the museum.