Port of San Diego Celebrates Maritime Industry in May; Free Public Bus Tours Offered
Contact: Kelley Lieberman, 619.643.0154, klieberman@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego is celebrating Maritime Month throughout May by honoring the thousands of people who work along the San Diego Bay waterfront, and showcasing how the local maritime industry supports the region’s bay of life.
“Maritime Month and National Maritime Day are an opportunity to celebrate our maritime history, and the many hardworking people dedicated to supporting the San Diego Bay waterfront,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Not only does the maritime industry play an important role in our economy and environmental sustainability, but it is deeply rooted in our community, creating a vibrant bay of life for us to enjoy now and in the future.”
Public Bus Tours
As part of the annual celebration, the Port is inviting the community to learn more about Port of San Diego Maritime through free bus tours of its two marine cargo terminals. The tours will allow the public to get a firsthand look at terminal operations including the movement of vehicles at the National City Marine Terminal (NCMT), and transport of specialty, bulk and refrigerated cargo at the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal (TAMT).
The tours will last approximately 90 minutes, and are happening:
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Monday, May 19, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
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Thursday, May 22, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
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Sunday, May 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m.
Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to each tour.
Space on the tours is limited, and participants must register beforehand. Participants must also be 18 years of age or older, complete a waiver, and have valid identification to access the terminals. Tours are anticipated to fill quickly, and those interested are encouraged to follow the Port on social media as spots become available. More information and registration details are available at portofsandiego.org/maritimemonth.
In addition to cargo, Port Maritime is comprised of three other sectors — cruise, shipbuilding and repair, and commercial and sportfishing. Each sector is vital to the region’s economy and provides thousands of high-paying jobs along the waterfront. Port Maritime and partners across all sectors are also committed to critical environmental initiatives such as electrification and emissions reduction. The Port highlights the work and impact of these sectors during Maritime Month each year as an extension of National Maritime Day on May 22.
During Maritime Month 2025, the Port is also celebrating Pasha Automotive Services’ 35 years of operation at NCMT. NCMT serves as the primary entry for one in eight imported vehicles shipped to the United States.
The community can learn more fun facts about Port Maritime and Maritime Month 2025 at portofsandiego.org/maritimemonth.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO MARITIME
Port of San Diego Maritime is our gateway to the world—leading our working waterfront and facilitating the movement of goods and people, internationally and domestically.
Port Maritime businesses employ thousands of residents and generate billions of dollars per year for the regional economy, creating a prosperous global economic engine for all.