The Star of India is the oldest active sailing ship in the world and the crown jewel of the San Diego Maritime Museum. Launched in 1863 on the Isle of Man, this magnificent iron-hulled windjammer has sailed around the globe, carrying immigrants, cargo, and crews through some of history's most challenging sea voyages. During its remarkable career, the ship transported goods between Europe, India, New Zealand, and Alaska, surviving fierce storms and the ever-changing demands of international trade.
Today, visitors can step aboard the beautifully restored vessel and explore its expansive decks, crew quarters, cargo holds, and captain's accommodations while imagining life at sea more than 160 years ago. Informative exhibits share stories of the sailors, immigrants, and adventurers who traveled aboard the ship, as well as the painstaking preservation efforts that have kept it sailing for generations.
Standing beneath the towering masts and intricate rigging of the Star of India offers a rare opportunity to experience a living piece of maritime history. As the flagship attraction of the San Diego Maritime Museum, it remains a symbol of adventure, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the Age of Sail.
