The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is set to host the Western Flyer, one of the most famous vessels in American maritime history, during the week of March 17, 2025, at Santa Barbara Harbor. Best known for carrying John Steinbeck, legendary Nobel Prize-winning American writer, and Ed Ricketts, American marine biologist, ecologist, and philosopher, on their groundbreaking 1940 Sea of Cortez expedition, the fully restored vessel now serves as a research and education platform.
As part of its visit, SBMM will offer two special events:
- Wednesday, March 19 — A free, public onboard tour with docents between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. at Santa Barbara Harbor.
- Thursday, March 20 — A Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series lecture at SBMM, featuring Dr. Tom Keffer, Chair of the Board, who will discuss the ship’s history, restoration, and future. The event begins at 7:00 p.m., with a members-only reception at 6:15 p.m. Admission is free for Navigators Circle members, $10 for other members, and $20 for the public. Tickets are available at sbmm.org or by calling (805) 456-8750.
Built in 1937 in Tacoma, Washington, the Western Flyer was a sardine seiner before becoming a symbol of conservation and marine ecology. Steinbeck and Ricketts’ journey aboard the vessel led to their 1941 book, Sea of Cortez: A Leisurely Journal of Travel and Research, which remains influential in the field of marine biology and environmental awareness.
During their six-week expedition, the pair documented destructive fishing practices, such as shrimp trawling, which shaped early conservation efforts. Over time, the vessel fell into disrepair, sank twice, and was nearly destroyed. Thanks to The Western Flyer Foundation, it has been fully restored and now inspires new generations of scientists, writers, and conservationists.
The Western Flyer now serves as a floating classroom and research lab, offering free marine science programs that integrate STEM, humanities, and visual arts. After completing its restoration in Port Townsend, Washington, it returned to Monterey Bay in 2024, marking the beginning of its new mission in ocean education and conservation.
This April, the Western Flyer will retrace its historic 1940 journey to the Gulf of California, celebrating its 85th anniversary expedition with a fundraising voyage. Limited spots remain for those looking to experience the journey firsthand.
SBMM encourages the community to visit the Western Flyer during its stop in Santa Barbara and learn about its legacy, restoration, and ongoing contributions to marine science.
For more details, visit sbmm.org or westernflyer.org.
