The PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore San Diego’s maritime past. Participants can enjoy the lives of sailors, learning about their sacrifices through engaging historical insights. With a scenic cruise under the Coronado Bridge and an exhilarating high-speed run, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. And with general admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego included, guests can dive deeper into the region’s naval heritage.
Key Points

- Unique opportunity to experience life as a sailor aboard the historic PCF 816 Swift Boat during a guided tour in San Diego.
- Insights into the sacrifices made by sailors during their service, beyond traditional history books.
- Tour includes a cruise under the Coronado Bridge and a high-speed run, providing an immersive naval experience.
- Maximum of 25 participants ensures an intimate and personalized learning environment.
- Admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego is included, allowing visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits.
Tour Overview

This tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience life as a sailor aboard the PCF 816 Swift Boat.
Guests gain insights into the sacrifices made by sailors during their service and learn beyond traditional history books. The experience includes a cruise under the Coronado Bridge and a high-speed run, providing an immersive look at the vessel’s capabilities.
With a maximum of 25 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether a history enthusiast or simply curious, this tour promises an engaging and educational adventure on the waters of San Diego.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in San Diego
Tour Details
The PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour takes place in San Diego, USA, with the meeting point at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, located at 1492 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101.
The tour includes a cruise under the Coronado Bridge and a high-speed run, lasting an unspecified duration. The maximum number of participants is 25 travelers, and the price starts from $48.00 per person.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
Inclusions

The PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour includes the boat tour itself, a general admission ticket to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and pickup at the museum’s location.
The tour allows visitors to gain insights into the sacrifices made by sailors during their service, going beyond what’s typically covered in history books. The tour includes a cruise under the Coronado Bridge and a high-speed run, offering a unique experience.
With a maximum of 25 participants, the tour provides an intimate setting for learning about the boat’s history. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Accessibility and Participation
Although the PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The tour is suitable for most participants, as it doesn’t require any special physical abilities.
Travelers should keep in mind the tour’s inclusion of a high-speed run, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Reviews and Ratings
Travelers offer unanimous praise for the PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour, with all five reviews awarding the experience a perfect 5-star rating.
The tour receives glowing feedback across several key areas:
- Engaging historical insights
- Unique opportunity to experience life as a sailor
- Skilled and knowledgeable staff
- Well-organized and efficient booking process
The reviews highlight the tour’s ability to provide a captivating and immersive learning experience that goes beyond traditional history lessons.
Guests consistently express satisfaction with the tour’s overall value and the chance to gain deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by naval personnel.
You can also read our reviews of more historical tours in San Diego
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Booking Information

Prebook to skip ticket lines and reserve now to pay later for flexibility. Visitors can check-in at the Maritime Museum’s Ticket Booth on the embarcadero to embark on the PCF 816 Swift Boat tour. Staff will guide guests to the waiting area before the tour begins.
| Tour Guidelines | Details |
|---|---|
| Meeting Point | Maritime Museum of San Diego |
| Check-In | Ticket Booth on Embarcadero |
| Participant Guidance | Staff will direct to waiting area |
| Booking Options | Prebook, reserve now & pay later |
The PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors to learn beyond traditional history books.
Exploring the PCF 816 Swift Boat

The PCF 816 Swift Boat stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the sailors who served aboard these vessels during the Vietnam War.
Visitors will have the opportunity to step aboard and explore the vessel’s key features:
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The compact cabin, where sailors endured cramped living conditions during extended patrols.
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The boat’s powerful engines, capable of reaching high speeds to evade enemy threats.
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The deck-mounted weapons, a reminder of the boat’s dual role as a patrol craft and a combat vessel.
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The hull, designed to navigate the narrow waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can take photos and videos during the tour. The tour description indicates there are no restrictions mentioned regarding photography or videography, so participants are free to capture their experience aboard the PCF 816 Swift Boat.
Is There a Restroom on the Boat?
Yes, the PCF 816 Swift Boat has a restroom for passengers. Travelers can use the onboard facilities during the tour, which provides a convenient option throughout the cruise experience.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour operator advises against consuming alcohol before or during the boat ride for safety reasons.
Do I Need Any Special Clothing or Equipment?
The tour doesn’t require any special clothing or equipment. Comfortable, casual attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather and bring any personal items they may need during the tour.
How Long Have the PCF 816 Swift Boats Been in Operation?
The PCF 816 Swift Boats were first introduced in the 1960s and played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, serving as fast patrol boats to support naval operations. They’ve since become an iconic symbol of that era’s naval history.
The Sum Up
The PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the maritime history of San Diego. Participants can enjoy the life of sailors, enjoy a scenic cruise, and experience an exhilarating high-speed run, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. With general admission to the Maritime Museum included, it’s a captivating and memorable outing for history enthusiasts.
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