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As the National Park Service embarks on a crucial project to preserve the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, many visitors may wonder why these iconic vessels are being relocated and what the future holds for the pier. This initiative is essential for ensuring the long-term safety and preservation of the historic ships. Below, we answer some common questions about the move and the work being done to protect these maritime treasures.
Mare Island, located in Vallejo, CA, offers the necessary facilities and expert contractors to work on the ships. It provides a safer environment for these fragile vessels compared to the rough waters and strong winds of San Francisco’s waterfront. In August 2023, the NPS secured a long-term lease for riverfront property and ship berthing bulkheads at Mare Island, where there is ample space and resources to house and maintain the historic ships.
The replacement of Hyde Street Pier is a long-term project expected to take several years. At this time, no demolition or construction contracts have been awarded, and planning is still in progress. As a result, the timeline for the ships’ return remains uncertain.
The Eureka will undergo the most extensive rehabilitation, including hull work, deck repairs, and updates to its electrical and safety systems. The C.A. Thayer and Hercules will receive routine maintenance and restoration work, which will be completed after their move to Mare Island. The Balclutha and Eppleton Hall are expected to need only minor work after being towed to Mare Island this fall.
Yes, the historic ships will be accessible to visitors at Mare Island. However, the timing and level of access will depend on the condition of the ships and staffing availability. The Balclutha and Eppleton Hall are expected to be in place by late March 2025, followed by the C.A. Thayer and Hercules.
San Francisco, a city celebrated for its iconic landmarks and cultural richness, also harbors a deep connection to maritime history. At the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a bygone era of tall ships, steam-powered ferries, and rugged tugboats that once defined the Pacific Coast’s bustling seafaring trade. Situated in Fisherman’s Wharf, this waterfront attraction at Hyde Street Pier offers a hands-on experience with historic vessels, a maritime museum, and the stunning Aquatic Park Historic District—making it an ideal stop on a private tour of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park was established to preserve the city’s rich nautical heritage. Located at the edge of San Francisco Bay, the park consists of multiple historic elements: Hyde Street Pier, home to a fleet of historic ships, some dating back to the 19th century. The Maritime Museum, housed in the historic Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building, featuring stunning maritime-themed murals from the 1930s. The Maritime Research Center, a repository of nautical artifacts, photographs, and historical records.
The Hyde Street Pier originally served as the ferry terminal for cars and passengers traveling across the Bay before the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge were constructed. Today, it offers a glimpse into San Francisco’s maritime past through restored ships and interactive exhibits.
A steel-hulled, three-masted square-rigger, Balclutha was built in Glasgow, Scotland.
This ship carried cargo worldwide and rounded Cape Horn 17 times.
It required a 26-member crew to navigate its 25 massive sails.
This wooden-hulled, three-masted schooner was designed for carrying timber along the West Coast.
Built in Northern California at the Hans D. Bendixsen Shipyard, the Thayer is a survivor of a once-thriving lumber trade.
Its small crew included just four seamen, two mates, a cook, and the captain.
Originally designed to carry passengers, horses, and later automobiles across San Francisco Bay.
At 300 feet long, Eureka was one of the largest wooden ferries ever built.
A flat-bottomed cargo ship, the Alma was vital to San Francisco’s early shipping industry, delivering goods to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta.
Built for ocean towing, Hercules played a crucial role in guiding ships safely through the Golden Gate Strait.
This British-built vessel made a historic transatlantic voyage from England to San Francisco in the 1970s.
These floating homes, or houseboats, were once a common sight in the San Francisco Bay area.
The Balclutha is one of the few surviving square-riggers from the late 19th century.
The Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building, now the Maritime Museum, is a prime example of Streamline Moderne architecture, designed to resemble an ocean liner.
The Eppleton Hall, a British-built tugboat, crossed the Atlantic and Panama Canal to reach San Francisco in 1970.
The Maritime Research Center houses one of the largest nautical history archives on the West Coast.
Before the Golden Gate Bridge, ferries like the Eureka were essential for transportation across San Francisco Bay.
![San Francisco Maritime Museum is located in the Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building Photo by: Chris Wood [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]](https://lucky-tuk-tuk.com/wp-content/uploads/San_Francisco_Maritime_Museum-1.jpg)
Photo by: Chris Wood CC BY-SA 4.0
The historic ships and waterfront backdrop of the Maritime Park have been featured in movies, documentaries, and books celebrating San Francisco’s maritime history. The Balclutha has appeared in period films due to its authentic 19th-century design.
Festival of the Sea: A maritime celebration featuring ship tours, live music, and seafaring demonstrations.
Historic Sailing Days: Watch traditional ship-rigging demonstrations.
Maritime Storytelling Nights: Listen to sea shanties and sailors’ tales from the Golden Age of Sail.
A private tour of San Francisco offers the perfect way to experience the city up close. Here’s why:
Skip the Crowds: A small group tour lets you explore the city at your own pace.
Personalized Experience: Your private guide shares behind-the-scenes insights.
Easy Access: Tuk Tuks navigate Fisherman’s Wharf effortlessly, ensuring you see more landmarks in less time.
Incredible Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco skyline.
📍 Location: Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA
📌 Address: 499 Jefferson Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
🌐 Website: San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
⏳ Hours: Open year-round; check the official website for ship access and tour schedules.
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is more than just a collection of historic ships—it’s a journey through maritime history. Whether you’re marveling at the majestic Balclutha, stepping aboard the Eureka ferry, or exploring the Maritime Museum, this destination offers a deep dive into the seafaring heritage of the Pacific Coast. For an unforgettable San Francisco tour, book a Lucky Tuk Tuk Private Small Group Tour and explore the city’s hidden gems, iconic sights, and rich maritime past in style!
