The Museum is a popular site for wedding receptions, mitzvahs, corporate mixers & meetings, nonprofit fundraisers and family events. Located at the Santa Barbara Waterfront Center, in the heart of a working harbor, the Maritime Museum is surrounded by busy fishermen, shopkeepers, and vast sea-life. Once inside the Museum, visitors enjoy architectural brilliance, and a perfect combination of high technology and warm friendliness. Most of the Museum exhibits are mobile, and can be rolled away and stored, enabling the Museum to become a unique special event venue. While the display cases in the walls feature seaworthy treasures, the Museum floor can facilitate buffet service, dining and cocktail tables and live performers. The upstairs balcony provides a panoramic view of the room and can be used to seat guests at small tables along the ship-style railing.
The Museum can accommodate 230 seated guests with 170 guests on the first floor and 60 guests on the second floor balcony. For a standing reception the building can accommodate 400 guests. These numbers include room for a dance floor and entertainment area.
The Museum’s High-Definition Munger Theater, located on the second floor of the Museum, is an ideal location for lectures, films, private meetings, multi-media presentations and additional seating for a sit-down event. The Munger Theater can accommodate 88 people in theater style seating and dining seating for 50 people.
For more information or to schedule a Museum visit please contact our Facilities and Special Events Coordinator via email here or call (805) 962-8404 ext. 110.
Rates and Fees:
MAIN MUSEUM
Option 1 — Inclusive Special Event Package Includes Museum rental fees, tables and chairs (for up to 150), cleaning fee (excluding carpet cleaning fee), building supervisor fee, use of 62” plasma screen (additional charge for presentations requiring technical assistant).
| Sunday – Thursday | $1,950 |
| Friday – Saturday | $2,450 |
MAIN MUSEUM or HARBOR VIEW PATIO
Option 2 – Smaller Event Rates
An hourly rate is available for parties of 60 or fewer. Additional amenities are charged separately. Rates include set up time.
| Sunday – Thursday | $275 / hour |
| Friday – Saturday | $375 / hour |
| Building Supervisor* | $25 / hour |
| Tables and Chairs | $3 per guest |
| Cleaning (req. if food served) | $200 |
| Plasma Screen | $150 |
* required for each hour of facility use
Non-profit organizations receive a discount on rental rates with proof of 501(c) (3) status. (excluding carpet cleaning fees)
Rental Application
To submit a Facility Rental Application click here.
