"El Pirata Buchar"

The Pirate Hippolyte Bouchard

Community Event

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 Rare Artifacts: Examine authentic 19th-century historical pieces 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.

Sunday, August 23

10 am until 4 pm

113 Harbor Way

Thanks to event sponsors!

Bluewater Hunter, Santa Barbara Sailing Center, Paddle Sports Center, and Lil' Toot

Set Sail for Adventure:

Educational Public Day Sails Aboard Mystic Whaler!

Looking for a unique way to explore our beautiful local coastline? Come aboard the stunning tall ship Mystic Whaler and experience the ocean like never before!

Whether you are a seasoned ocean lover or looking for a memorable family outing, our upcoming Educational Public Day Sails offer the perfect opportunity to step on deck, learn about maritime history and marine ecology, or simply relax and enjoy the wind in the sails.

⛵ Santa Barbara Harbor

• Date: Sunday, August 30
• Time: 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Departure: Santa Barbara Harbor

Every ticket purchased does more than just get you out on the water. Proceeds from our Public Day Sails directly support educational opportunities for local youth, helping us inspire and educate the next generation of ocean stewards.

Our public sails are popular, and space aboard the tall ship is limited. Don't miss your chance to come sail away with us!

Click Here to Get Your Tickets

 The Incredible Story of Mary Ann Patten

At just 19 years old, she took command of a 1,800-ton clipper ship in the middle of a gale and made history.

​In 1856, Mary Ann Patten was aboard the Neptune’s Car off Cape Horn when crisis struck. The original captain (her husband) fell critically ill, and the first mate was relieved of duty for sabotage.

​Despite being six months pregnant, Mary stepped up to the quarterdeck. She had spent months studying navigation and maritime law on previous voyages. Over the next 56 days, she navigated one of the most treacherous stretches of water on Earth, dodging icebergs, battling roaring gales, and holding off a mutinous crew, all while nursing her dying husband.

​She brought the ship and its cargo safely into San Francisco harbor, beating three other vessels in the race around the Horn.

​Mary became the first recorded woman to command an American merchant vessel, proving that leadership at sea isn't about tradition - it's about skill, courage, and composure under pressure.

All of us at Mystic Ocean Adventures are proud to sail under the command of another female captain, Christine Healy!

Mystic Whaler is a proud member of:

Mystic Ocean Adventures (and its tall ship Mystic Whaler) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization