SEARSPORT – First it was pirates. Then, lobster. Next year: discovery.

As the venerable Penobscot Marine Museum ventures ever further into the world of marketing, it has found that themes draw attention not only to the museum and its exhibitions, but to the community, too.

As its second themed season comes to a close, the museum says it will retain part of it and focus attention on its main exhibition next year: the 400th anniversary of Capt. George Weymouth’s European discovery of the Penobscot River.

In 2003, the museum’s theme was “Pirates!” This year, the theme is “Lobstah – from bait to plate.” The “Lobstah” exhibit closes Oct. 17, but the museum plans to retain part of it next year.