Bad News about HMS Surprise
“I am writing to share that the Museum has recently made a difficult long-term decision regarding the vessel’s future.
After extensive professional evaluation and careful consideration by the Board and staff leadership, the Museum has determined that keeping HMS Surprise in our fleet is not financially viable. The cost required to bring the ship up to the standard our visitors, crew, and community deserve is no longer feasible nor responsible.
Earlier this year, the Museum brought in a professional marine surveyor to carefully inspect our historic fleet and the resources required to properly steward them. The cost to sufficiently restore HMS Surprise is estimated to exceed $25,000,000. The Museum simply does not have the resources for this, and it would significantly limit our ability to care for the rest of the collection and advance our educational mission.
Therefore, the decision has been made to permanently close HMS Surprise to the public on August 1, 2027. We will be announcing this to our museum community and the public in the coming month.
Please know that this decision was not made lightly. For more than 20 years, the Museum has devoted considerable resources to maintain HMS Surprise as a vital part of the Museum’s historic vessel collection. She has played an extraordinary role in bringing maritime history to life, inspiring countless visitors, students, and supporters over the years. Before she is closed to the public, the Museum will be appropriately honoring and celebrating her over the next year.
I do want to be clear that this decision is final, and the Museum will not be launching a fundraising campaign to reverse it. The Museum staff is exploring options for her next chapter, including but not limited to potential entertainment industry opportunities, among other solutions. We will share updates when available.
We deeply appreciate the recent support you have shown HMS Surprise. However, I understand that this information may change how you wish to direct your donation. The funds can be redirected to another vessel, our education programs, or to the Museum’s general operating fund. I also understand that you may choose to have your donation refunded and am happy to assist with that as well. My office number is below if you need to reach me via phone.
Thank you again for your support and interest in our work.
Director of Development & Membership
Maritime Museum of San Diego”
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