Business Details
19 Years
experience
Private Sailboat Charters in San Francisco
Founded in 2007, Sailing San Francis is a premier provider of private sailboat charters and sailing instruction on the San Francisco Bay. Our owner-operated service is led by Captain John, a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed mariner with over four decades of local sailing expertise. We specialize in creating personalized maritime experiences that combine safety, education, and unforgettable sightseeing. Our modern 37-foot Catalina 350 yacht, Temptation, offers luxury accommodations while maintaining strict Coast Guard compliance for up to six passengers. We cater to diverse occasions including romantic sunset cruises, special event celebrations, and hands-on sailing lessons for all skill levels.Our commitment to exceptional service extends to memorial ash scatterings and customized corporate outings. With detailed knowledge of Bay Area currents, wildlife, and historical landmarks, we transform simple sails into curated journeys. Our educational programs follow US Sailing-certified curricula, emphasizing practical skills through small-class instruction. Whether showcasing sea lions at Pier 39 or navigating under the Golden Gate Bridge, we prioritize memorable experiences while maintaining rigorous safety standards.
Services
Private Sailboat Tours
Sailing Lessons
Wedding Charters
Corporate Outings
Memorial Services
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Captain with 40+ years of local sailing expertise
- US Coast Guard-certified vessel for passenger safety
- Customized itineraries for special occasions and events
- Hands-on sailing instruction from certified instructors
- Modern 37-foot luxury yacht accommodating up to six passengers
Associations and certifications
- U.S. Coast Guard
- US Sailing
What people say
Exceptional service
Breathtaking views
Knowledgeable captain
Memorable experience
Well-maintained boat
Services
Private Sailboat Tours
Explore San Francisco Bay's iconic landmarks aboard our 37-foot Catalina 350 yacht. These customizable tours accommodate up to six passengers, featuring routes past Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and around Angel Island. Ideal for romantic outings, special celebrations, or casual sightseeing adventures.
Sailing Lessons
US Sailing-certified instruction covering essential nautical skills. Small-group classes (max 4 people) teach boat handling, navigation rules, and safety procedures through hands-on practice. Curriculum includes rigging, sail trim, and coastal navigation fundamentals for Bay Area waters.
Special Event Charters
Custom maritime celebrations for weddings, anniversaries, and corporate events. Our vessel features onboard amenities including dining areas and audio-visual equipment. Services include memorial ash scatterings and sunset cocktail cruises with personalized route planning for significant occasions.
Wildlife Observation Tours
Guided ecological tours showcasing Bay Area marine life. Passengers observe sea lions at Pier 39, seabird colonies near Alcatraz, and seasonal whale/dolphin migrations. Early morning departures offer optimal wildlife viewing and calm sailing conditions for family-friendly educational experiences.
Historical Landmark Cruises
Narrative-driven voyages exploring San Francisco's maritime history. Captain John shares local lore while navigating past Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Tours include geological explanations of Bay currents and historical context about 19th-century shipping routes.
People
Captain John
Owner/Operator
US Coast Guard-licensed captain with 40+ years of Bay Area sailing experience. Certified US Sailing instructor and 1999 Arthur B. Hanson Rescue Medal recipient. Specializes in combining safety education with personalized sightseeing adventures.
Questions
What is the maximum passenger capacity?
Our Coast Guard-certified vessel accommodates up to six passengers, including children. Each person counts toward capacity regardless of age.
Can we bring food and drinks aboard?
Yes, passengers may bring food and beverages. The vessel has refrigeration and dining facilities. Glass containers are discouraged for safety reasons.
Are sailing lessons available for beginners?
Yes, we offer introductory lessons for all skill levels. Classes include hands-on training with a 4:1 student-instructor ratio and follow US Sailing safety standards.
What happens during bad weather?
Tours operate rain or shine. The captain monitors conditions continuously and may adjust routes for safety. Extreme weather may result in rescheduling options.
Can we customize our sailing route?
Yes, we offer fully customizable itineraries. Popular options include wine tasting routes, baseball game viewing, and multi-hour excursions to Ayala Cove.
Is prior sailing experience required?
No prior experience needed for charters. Sailing lessons are available for those wanting to learn basic nautical skills before future independent sailing.
