The Maritime Museum of San Diego is perfect for thalassophiles who also enjoy nautical history as this venue is home to one of the largest collections of historic sea vessels in the United States. Nestled in the San Diego Bay just south of San Diego International Airport, the main highlight of the Maritime Museum is an 1863 iron bark called the "Star of India." Aboard the 1898 ferryboat Berkeley, the museum maintains the MacMullen Library and Research Archives. Children and adults of all ages will find their experience aboard the Maritime Museum of San Diego enjoyable and educational.Best and worst time to go to Maritime Museum of San DiegoBecause this is a popular tourist attraction, weekdays are typically a better time to go than weekends, which tend to be more crowded. Visitors will also want to call ahead on rainy days as some of the outdoor exhibits and ships close during inclement weather.Must see/do at Maritime Museum of San DiegoMaritime Museum of San Diego is made up of visiting and permanent exhibits, as well as a world-class collection of historic ships, steam-powered boats and submarines. One experience visitors shouldn't miss is the 45-minute history bay cruise aboard a 1914 Pilot boat. Guests can also learn about the history of San Diego's Naval presence in this area of Southern California. Finally, learn how technology and the history of navigation charting the sea come together in an amazing permanent exhibit.Admission to Maritime Museum of San DiegoMaritime Museum of San Diego is open almost every day of the year, except during special events, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with extended summer hours until 9 p.m. Admission varies depending on the type of exhibits and tours you want to experience.Parking and public transportation to Maritime Museum of San DiegoParking in this area of San Diego can be difficult, so various types of public transportation to the Maritime Museum are available by calling Uber, a cab or taking a trolley or bus. If you do drive down, visitors can find three-hour metered port parking spaces directly in front of the museum. Several day lots and parking garages are also nearby. If visitors do take the trolley, stops include: Green line, Little Italy. Orange line, Santa Fe Depot. Blue line, American Plaza. All are just a few short blocks from the museum. The Big Bay Shuttle is also available on certain days and times.Food at Maritime Museum of San DiegoFood and drinks are not permitted in the museum. Those planning a water adventure cruise or boat trip may bring bagged lunches, but glass containers and coolers are not allowed. Water, soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase on some of the cruises.Insider tip for visitors to Maritime Museum of San DiegoThe Maritime Museum closes early periodically throughout the year for private parties and events. Check the website ahead of time or call the museum before scheduling your visit.Author's bio: Mary Beth Adomaitis is a freelance writer from Southern California. She loves to visit exciting and new places with her family. In the summer of 2014, she drove cross-country from California to Ohio, visiting 14 states in two weeks.