Two San Diego ferries on National Register of Historic Places

The last two historic ferries operating on San Diego Bay are now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, as operators Flagship Cruises and Events move forward on plans for new electric 275-passenger vessels.

The 65’ Silvergate was built in 1940 served then between San Diego and Coronado, carrying passengers to Naval Station North Island during World War II. 

The 85’Cabrillo was built in 1964, “a testament to the craftsmanship and maritime tradition of the Star & Crescent Boat Company,” according to Flagship.

 “Designed by renowned naval architect Oakley J. Hall, the vessel was built specifically for passenger service on San Diego Bay and continues to operate today with much of its original charm preserved. The Cabrillo Ferry, operated historically as an excursion vessel during the post-war maritime recreation boom in San Diego.”

 “These ferries are more than boats; they are living history,” said Brad Engel, president of Flagship Cruises & Events, “The Silvergate and Cabrillo have carried millions of passengers across San Diego Bay and have stood as constant witnesses to the city’s growth and transformation. We are honored to see their legacies recognized at the national level.”

The opening of the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge in 1969 ended the bay’s ferry era. Ferry service was banned within a 10-mile radius of a toll crossing, until 1987 after bridge construction bonds for were paid off. During those years the Silvergate served for harbor excursions and educational programming, resuming its original ferry mission in 1987.

The Silvergate’s National Register of Historic Places recognition cites the vessel “as a significant historical resource for its association with maritime transportation during World War II and in the post-war years as part of San Diego’s maritime recreation sector,” according to Flagship. “Known for its distinctive silhouette and warm wood detailing, the ferry remains a cherished presence on the bay.” 

The Cabrillo was designed by naval architect Oakley J. Hall and built specifically for passenger service. It operated historically as an excursion vessel during the post-war maritime recreation boom in San Diego,” according to the company. 

“These vessels represent an irreplaceable part of our maritime heritage, serving as reminders of an era when ferries were the primary way of connecting people, commerce, and culture across San Diego Bay,” said Vickie Stone, curator of collections for the Coronado Historical Association. “The preservation of these two ferries will ensure that future generations can appreciate the craftsmanship, innovation, and civic importance that these boats embody.”

A provider of public ferry services, harbor tours, whale watching, dining cruises, and private charters, Flagship is also building the first fully electric, zero-emissions ferries to service the San Diego area.