Do I need prior marine experience?

No prior experience is necessary; the program is designed for beginners and curious learners.

Is there an age limit?

The program is open to scouts aged 9-18, with activities tailored to different age groups.

Bring layers of clothing, a water bottle, sun protection, and a notebook if desired.

Participants should bring their own snacks and water bottles for breaks.

Can parents stay during the activities?

Parents are welcome to wait in designated areas or join briefings, but activities are primarily for scouts.

What if the weather is bad?

Most classes are held indoors or on covered decks; in case of severe weather, schedules may be adjusted.

Oceanography Merit Badge Days | Museum in San Diego | Water Activities | Museum

Located in the vibrant city of San Diego, the Maritime Museum offers an engaging setting for young explorers keen on understanding the mysteries of the ocean. Oceanography Merit Badge Days is a standout program for scouts aged 9-18, blending hands-on learning with immersive marine science experiences. Over three Saturdays, participants delve into the depths of oceanography under the guidance of certified instructors, earning their merit badge while experiencing the fascinating world below the waves. This program showcases the museum’s impressive collection of historic ships and the rich maritime history that frames the Pacific Ocean’s importance. Participants will take part in interactive classes that cover core ocean science topics such as marine ecosystems, ocean currents, and sea life. The museum’s location in San Diego—one of the busiest ports on the West Coast—provides an authentic backdrop for learning, with opportunities to see ships navigating the bustling harbor and experience the coastal environment. What makes Oceanography Merit Badge Days particularly special is the blend of education and adventure in a highly accessible setting. Kids get to handle real marine equipment, participate in marine-themed experiments, and even learn about local marine animals like sea lions, pelicans, and tidepool invertebrates. The program aims to foster curiosity about the ocean's role in the planet’s climate, encourage responsible stewardship, and inspire future marine scientists. Ideal for families and scouts alike, this program offers an interactive glimpse into the ocean’s secrets, set against San Diego’s dynamic coastal scenery. It’s a fantastic way to connect with marine science in a fun, hands-on environment that nurtures both knowledge and adventure—truly a one-of-a-kind experience in Southern California’s thriving maritime scene.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 Saturdays (half-day each).

Fitness level

Suitable for most children and teens, with no special fitness requirements

Wildlife

Sea lions
Pelicans

History

San Diego’s maritime history dates back to the 1700s, shaping its role as a key port and naval hub.

Conservation

The museum actively promotes marine conservation and responsible interaction with ocean wildlife.

Maritime Museum of San Diego preserves and presents the maritime heritage of San Diego through a collection of historic vessels, hands-on experiences, and public programs. Located on San Diego Bay, the museum maintains and operates a fleet that includes the 1863 bark Star of India, the Pilot (launched 1914, restored 2002), replicas such as the brigantine Californian, and the Spanish galleon replica San Salvador. Visitors can explore dockside exhibits, board multiple historic ships, and choose guided docent tours, narrated bay cruises, multi-hour sailing adventures, interactive pirate theater, and overnight stays aboard the Star of India. Educational offerings include Oceanography Merit Badge Days for scouts ages 9–18, hands-on sailing experiences, and VIP private tours that provide behind-the-scenes access. Public cruises vary in length from a 45-minute narrated bay cruise aboard the Pilot to four-hour sails on San Salvador, and specialty programs such as the 90-minute BOARDED! pirate adventure and family overnight events. Guided docent-led tours are offered twice a month with limited capacity for intimate exploration. General admission provides all-day access and the opportunity to see historic vessels up close, and the museum operates daily. The museum’s conservation and restoration efforts follow established preservation standards, and volunteer stewards regularly maintain vessels to ensure historical integrity and visitor safety during tours and events year-round operations.

Base locationSan Diego, California

Tours offered11+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace