Anchored in the Community: The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum Celebrates 25 Years
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) has sailed through 25 years of preserving and sharing the rich maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. Founded on July 29, 2000, by a group of passionate local fishermen, divers, and sailors, SBMM began as a modest endeavor with a clear mission: to present and interpret the diverse maritime history of the region, along with key environmental issues.
Over the past two and a half decades, SBMM has grown from a small storefront operation to a leading maritime museum recognized as one of the top 10 in the United States by Marina Life Magazine. In 2021, the museum earned accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), a prestigious honor achieved by fewer than 4 percent of museums nationwide.
Today, SBMM is more than just a museum; it’s a vibrant hub of education and community engagement. The museum’s interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences bring the area’s history and culture to life for visitors of all ages. Notable exhibits include the Point Conception First-Order Fresnel Lens, the historic sport fishing yacht Ranger, and an extensive collection of Dwight Brooks’ fully-functional boat models.
SBMM’s educational programs are at the heart of its mission. These initiatives, developed in partnership with local schools, include Science Nights, school group tours, the Girls in Ocean Science program, the nationally recognized Maritime on the Move program, and the renowned Marine Sciences and Tall Ship programs, which introduce children to the wonders of the sea, often for the first time.
As SBMM celebrates its 25th anniversary, it remains committed to inspiring curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of Santa Barbara’s maritime heritage. With a legacy of excellence and a future full of promise, the museum continues to be a beacon of maritime history and education for the community and beyond.
Mark Your Calendars for These 2025 Events:
- Annual Gala Fundraiser: March 7, 2025 – Join us for a Love Boat-themed evening set in the Caribbean! Join us for a special evening honoring Hiroko Benko and Sigrid Toye featuring cocktails, dinner, and lively entertainment.
- Special Concert by Yachty by Nature: June 28, 2025 – 5:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. 25th Anniversary Dance Party. More details coming soon!
- New Exhibits:
- Anchored in the Community: SBMM Celebrates 25 Years – As SBMM marks its 25th anniversary, we reflect on the enduring symbolism of the ship anchor—representing stability, hope, and resilience. Just as anchors have secured vessels against the forces of wind and current, the museum has remained a steadfast presence in the Santa Barbara community, sharing maritime history and inspiring future generations. January 2025
- Above Your Dreams: Paintings by Kevin A. Short. The exhibit will showcase Short’s ability to capture the fleeting beauty and power of sunlight through vibrant, impressionist brushstrokes and rich color palettes. February 5-May 11, 2025
- The Swiftest Recovery-Island Fox Chronicles: Photography by Chuck Graham This collection features 30 stunning photographs of island foxes, captured during Graham’s kayaking adventure across the Santa Barbara Channel to Santa Cruz Island. The exhibition highlights the remarkable conservation success story of the island fox, showcasing recovery and the restoration of natural balance on the island. May 22-August 31, 2025
- Channel Islands Underwater: Photography by Ralph Clevenger. The exhibit will depict the extraordinary marine environment of the Channel Islands off southern California. Giant kelp forests, rocky reefs, and shallow seagrass beds surrounding the islands provide for one of the most biodiverse ocean habitats in the world. September 10-December 28, 2025
- 170 Years of Harbor History will be on display at City Hall, a selection of photographs of Santa Barbara’s harbor and waterfront from 1853 to the present. Starting February 5, 2025 during the 1st Thursday Art Walk 5-8 p.m.