Ready, Set, Launch: San Salvador

Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s ship, the San Salvador, arrived at the port we now call San Diego on September 28, 1542.  She was the first recorded European vessel to sail along Southern California, surveying its coastline. The San Salvador functions as an "origin symbol"  for San Diego in much the same way as the Mayflower is the origin symbol  of New England.

In the past few years the Maritime Museum of San Diego has embarked on the construction of a historically accurate replica.  This construction is now underway at Spanish Landing, located along the San Diego Bay near the San Diego International Airport.  The build site has officially closed as we prepare for her launch!  Her construction continues, with a majority of the crew being volunteers, whom without none of this would be possible.

The new San Salvador will function much more than just a static museum display. While she will call the Maritime Museum of San Diego home, she will also sail along the coast of California, visiting its cities and towns as a floating education platform for California's school children.  By donating just $15.00 (the closest to 1542 we could do)  or more to our digital community launch goal of $15,000 you are helping to bring the adventure and discovery of our seafaring experience to life.