Pirates Day at the Harbor: The Story of Hippolyte Bouchard
Step into California’s maritime past during a free, family-friendly day at the Santa Barbara Harbor! Meet costumed historic figures aboard the Mystic Whaler, discover the dramatic story of privateer Hippolyte Bouchard, view an authentic artifact from SBMM, and follow clues on a harbor-wide treasure hunt.
Costumes are encouraged! Guests who arrive in costume—along with up to three additional guests—will receive free same-day admission to the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Participants with a treasure hunt map can also receive free admission to the museum, continue the adventure inside SBMM.
Bring the whole family for a day filled with history, mystery, and high-seas adventure!
Sunday, August 23, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Santa Barbara Harbor
LIVING HISTORY ABOARD TALL SHIP MYSTIC WHALER BRINGS
1818 CALIFORNIA PRIVATEER RAID TO LIFE
Community event features an authentic artifact from Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, living history reenactors, and interactive family activities.
Local history lovers and adventure seekers are invited to step off the shore and straight into the history books for a living history event exploring one of California’s most dramatic maritime chapters: the 1818 raids of the pirate Hippolyte Bouchard.
Hosted by Mystic Ocean Adventures, the tall ship Mystic Whaler, and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, the event offers a hands-on journey back to the early 19th century when Bouchard – a French-born Argentine privateer – sailed up the California coast, leaving an indelible mark on maritime history.
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to:
- Meet Living History Reenactors: Interact with costumed historical figures on board the Mystic Whaler, including a live character portrayal of Hippolyte Bouchard himself.
- View A Rare Artifact: Examine an authentic 19th-century historical piece on display, made available through a special collaboration with the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum.
- Engage in Family Activities: Test and solve historical mysteries in an interactive, harbor-wide treasure hunt.
- Explore a Tall Ship: Walk the decks of Mystic Whaler and gain insight into traditional seafaring techniques and coastal life during the era of privateers. FREE ADMISSION.
“History comes alive when you can stand on the deck of a vessel, see the actual tools of the era, and talk with the figures who shaped the coast,” said Captain Christine Healy, Executive Director of Mystic Ocean Adventures. “Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast or looking for a memorable family outing, this event connects our local community directly to California’s rich coastal past.”
About Mystic Ocean Adventures (MOA): Mystic Ocean Adventures, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, promotes hands-on education, STEAM academic comprehension, environmental stewardship, teamwork, self-confidence, and nautical skills with a special focus on youth through sailing and the sea. It’s 110-foot tall ship , the Mystic Whaler, provides a unique outdoor classroom experience for the communities it serves. mysticoceanadventures.org
About the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM): SBMM’s mission to interpret the rich and diverse maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. SBMM is an interactive museum – a place where the public can experience maritime culture without leaving the harbor. Founded by a group of fisherman, divers, and sailors, SBMM provides hands-on learning opportunities for all ages, delving into Santa Barbara’s robust maritime history while highlighting the important role the Santa Barbara Channel plays in our culture and community.
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