sailboat charter san francisco bay

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Sail the Magnificent San Francisco Bay

Private charters.

 Just your group and the captain and crew.

Three Excellent Yachts

3 convenient locations, all trips are private charters.

Outdoor, Fresh Air, Covid-Safe Activity.

Pet friendly.

Bring your puppy sailing!

Sailing San Francisco Bay for over 25 Years

Join us for private sailing yacht charters in San Francisco Bay with an experienced captain and crew. The captains at Captain Kirk's San Francisco Sailing have many years of experience and an accumulation of over 200,000 ocean miles.

Let us show you the beauty and thrill of sailing in San Francisco Bay. Bay Wolf, Osprey, and Mahalo are professionally-maintained yachts that sail very well in all conditions.

Your journey can begin in Sausalito or San Francisco with easy access to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island and the San Francisco waterfront, and more. We strive to meet your desires; each trip can be as exciting, relaxing or romantic as you wish. You can actively participate in sailing the boat or simply enjoy the ride.

Fall Sailing

Come sailing!

• We are moving into the BEST part of sailing season: Fall
• Fog clears out in September – Sunshine!
• Wind lightens up from summer to perfect sailing winds
• Less fog means warmer days on the water
• We aim for “Best Day Ever” on all our trips.
• Team building, Birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations – all good reasons to sail.
• Dog and Kid friendly! Bring your child or puppy for a sail.

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Great experience sailing with Captain Kirk and crew.. great views. Great time.. a day to remember! Highly recommended

Crystal Totah 

Terrific experience sailing out of Sausalito for sunset!  Beautiful boat, engaging crew and a chance at the helm during a magnificent sunset!  How can you not love that?

Marie Gimbrone

View more of our five star reviews on YELP , TRIPADVISOR and FACEBOOK

Santa Cruz 50 - (1-20 passengers)

Length 50 ft

Sailing From: Sausalito, or San Francisco

Freedom 35 - (1-6 passengers)

Length: 35ft

Sailing From: Sausalito only

Gulf Star 50 (1-20 passengers)

Length: 50 ft

Beam: 13 ft

  © Captain Kirk's San Francisco Sailing, LLC 2021 San Francisco Sailing Charters

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SAIL TODAY  on the beautiful  San Francisco Bay

SAIL TODAY on the beautiful  San Francisco Bay

Sailboat Charters in San Francisco

Two hour private charter for two people $400. , each additional person $50., maximum of six passengers .

Please note, We cannot take more than six passengers. This is a Coast Guard regulation and there can be no exceptions. Each child counts as one passenger. All major credit cards and PayPal accepted.

SPECIAL EVENTS

SAILING LESSONS

Gift Certificates

Current specials.

• Sailing to Pier 39 where the sea lions have taken over a whole marina. You’ll pass on the lee side of Alcatraz to be greeted by seagulls. Then it’s off around Angel Island to Ayala Cove where you can see the beautiful cities of Tiburon and Sausalito. Experience the current in Raccoon Straight, while passing under the Golden Gate Bridge with the fresh ocean breeze on your face. With luck, you’ll see dolphins or whales. Jibe the boat back and enjoy the gorgeous city front of San Francisco. This tour requires four hours or more. 
• Docking by Sam’s Cafe in Tiburon for drinks and a burger or enjoy one of many other fabulous restaurants on the water. This is a four-hour minimum tour. 
• Sail by the baseball park and catch home run balls. This is a three to four-hour tour. 
• Pack a picnic basket or barbecue, and we’ll sail over to Angel Island. This is a full day event (six hours minimum).
• Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and see the sunset. This can be done in two hours. 
• Go out beyond the Golden Gate Bridge and sail in the Pacific Ocean. Depending on how far out in the ocean we sail, this can take two hours to a full day. 

(415) 602-8416 [email protected]

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• Sailing on SF Bay
• Team Building & Leadership Retreats
• Weddings on SF Bay
• About SF Bay Adventures

Happenings on the Bay

• Restaurants in Sausalito

All the planning for a perfect nautical adventure on the San Francisco Bay is already done for you. Check out our all-inclusive packages, including Angel Island and SF Giants in McCovey Cove.

Sailing on the San Francisco Bay

The San Francisco Bay is a world-class sailing destination. From chartering a boat for a private event to reserving tickets for a sunset tour, there’s something for everyone!

Team-building & Leadership Retreats

Grab your team and get out on the San Francisco Bay for an unforgettable company outing. Unplug and spend some quality time with your co-workers, with offsite experiences for teams of all sizes.

Yacht Charters on San Francisco Bay

Cruise the San Francisco Bay aboard a local motor yacht. Casual to full service events are available for all price ranges. Step aboard today!

Stay up-to-date on the latest maritime news around the San Francisco Bay. Whale sightings, regattas, nature reports, holidays and more!

San Francisco Bay Adventures

Come aboard one of our weekly excursions, including eco-sails, sunsets and holiday fireworks cruises. Our ticketed events are a favorite for guests of all ages!

Memorials & Ash Scatterings

SF Bay Adventures has helped guests with celebration of life services on the SF Bay since 1988. Let our experienced team assist you in carrying out your loved one’s final wishes.

Marine Film, Production & Safety

SF Bay Adventures has been at the helm of marine film and photography projects on the San Francisco Bay for over 30 years. Safety services include small boats for swims, races and other special events.

Weddings on the San Francisco Bay

Say “I do” on San Francisco Bay! Select an all-inclusive wedding package or completely customize your special day. Our experienced staff is standing by to help you plan the perfect nautical wedding.

Angel Island

Some of the best and most diverse views of the Bay Area are found while hiking or meandering on Angel Island. Accessible only by boat or ferry Angel Island is located just off of the Marin County mainland. The island is a National History Landmark as it was used as an immigration station.

Whale Watching, Wildlife & Ecology

San Francisco Bay is uniquely located just inland of the Pacific Ocean. Marine Mammals, Birds and Wildlife are attracted to the protected waters that lay just inside and beyond the famous Golden Gate Bridge. The Bay’s brackish waters are hospitable for life from both the ocean and rivers.

Sunset Cruise on the SF Bay

Nothing compares to a sunset on the famous San Francisco Bay. Enjoy golden hour aboard a private sail, motor yacht charter or public ticketed cruise. SF Bay Adventures offers every price level for a magical experience on the water.

SF Bay Sunset Cruise

An SF Bay sunset cruise is the ultimate Bay Area experience! See the most iconic sights from the very special vantage of the water. Famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz Island, Crissy Field, Fort Mason, the Bay Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, Angel Island and more are shown in their best light; the golden hour – all while enjoying an unforgettable sunset.

An SF Bay sunset cruise is the perfect way to liven up your weekend. It’s an ideal mix of luxury and adventure! Choose an intimate private charter for a San Francisco sunset cruise on the charming, all wood Grand Banks, Cimba . Or get a fun group together and come aboard a classic tall ship like the Schooner Freda B . Another wonderful way to get out on the Bay is always a Public sails !

Sunset Sail on San Francisco Bay- Friday Nights

Marine Wildlife and Ecology 2024 – Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge

Our goal is to provide you with an unforgettable Interactive Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay that's better than any typical sightseeing tour while at the same time promoting sustainable tourism practices.  

At SAILING SF BAY our Interactive Sailing Charters and Tours are aimed at creating lifelong memorable experiences for you while showcasing the beauty and diversity of the San Francisco Bay area.  

Interactive Sailing Experience

Our Interactive Sailing Experience charters are limited to small groups up to 6 passengers, It's not just another one of the typical San Francisco Bay Sailing Tours.  In our sailing experience you'll have the option to fully participate in the sailing experience by steering the boat and handling lines or if you prefer you can simply relax and enjoy all the sights and scenery that Sailing San Francisco Bay offers. You'll sail past the Golden Gate Bridge, around the infamous Alcatraz Island and along the San Francisco waterfront..

See what people people are saying about us!

Book an interactive sailing experience on san francisco bay, drop us a line.

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Sausalito, California

(415) 873-9668 / [email protected]

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3001 Bridgeway K-172, Sausalito, California 94965

1 (415) 873-9668

Copyright © 2023 Sailing SF Bay, LLC. - All Rights Reserved.

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Experience the San Francisco Bay

Enjoy the San Francisco Bay with a catamaran charter on our magnificent sailing yacht, Cat Ballou. With over 20 years of bay and coastal experience, our catamaran will go almost anywhere on our coast.

 Tours

Take a trip starting in the San Francisco Bay, out under the San Francisco Bridge, and out into the wide open Pacific. These trips are excellent ways to escape for a day out into the open blue.

 Corporate Charters

Treat your team to an afternoon or evening on the San Francisco bay. Whether you're looking to impress clients, build camaraderie with your team, or just hang out and relax, the Cat Ballou is perfect for any occasion.

Details at a glance

When you charter Cat Ballou, your party is the only one on the catamaran.

The maximum number of guests, including children, is twelve.

Board and drop off in Sausalito, at Schoonmaker Marina.

Certification

The Cat Ballou is a U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel. She is inspected annually, from top to bottom to ensure the safety of all passengers.

Our clients who took to the seas

Testimonials

Check out our 4.5 star rating on Yelp .

Sailing with Chuck is a true pleasure. His wisdom in life and in business are clear in everything he does. His passion for sailing makes the experience of sharing time with him on the water one that is impactful and unforgettable. Cat Ballou is an amazing ship and will redefine what sailing feels like for new and experienced sailors alike. This is an experience not to be missed!

Chuck is an incredible sailor and businessman. I've worked with Chuck in the insurance business and have sailed with him many times. He has a genuine passion for sailing and has sailed for many years. You won't find a better person to sail with or to do business with.

As the owner of Cat Ballou Sailing, Chuck exemplifies his position and provides a unique experience that can not be easily replicated. His knowledge of his ship is second to none, which directly translates to an incredibly rewarding experience for first-time and seasoned sailors alike. If you have the the opportunity, I strongly recommend calling on Chuck for his Team Building expertise as well.

Cat Ballou and Chuck provided our company with organized, thoughtful and well executed events. Because of his background in management training and sailing Chuck was able to provide a full days activities for our management team and clients that ranged from business and management training, team-building, great food and very pleasant days of sailing. I highly recommend Cat Ballou for company off-sites and client activities.

Chuck exemplifies the meaning of competence, confidence and professionalism. You sail comfortably, safely, in style; have the best times and learn more every time. Yeah, that good.

Boat particulars

Cat Ballou is spacious comfortable boat, with room to stretch out. She will accommodate you in style and grace. She is capable of great speed but is at her best cruising in the low teens.

Captain Chuck Longanecker

Captain Chuck, a U.S. Coast Guard Master with a 50 ton rating, bought the Cat Ballou in St. Martin in 1998. Then, with family and friends he sailed her back to San Francisco through the Panama Canal. It was an adventure of a lifetime. Cat Ballou is his 8th sailboat.

Captain Ken Peterson

Captain Ken, a U.S. Coast Guard Captain. With over 35 years of sailing experience, Ken is the boat's pilot when we're underway.

Donald Simpson

Donald Simpson is the a First Mate on Cat Ballou. He has a bachelors degree in accounting, and chucked the cubicle for a life at sea. Sailing and baseball are his passions. Kenny and Donald work together to keep Cat Ballou bristol, and provide world class service to our guests.

Start planning your adventure

The Cat Ballou is a popular boat and fills up fast. It's best to make reservations up to two weeks in advance if possible.

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About the fleet.

San Francisco Bay Sailboat Rentals and Bareboat Charters

Are you looking for a bareboat sailboat rental on San Francisco Bay? Look no further. At Modern Sailing Sausalito and Berkeley, we have a robust fleet of sailboats and catamarans available for charter within the waters of San Francisco Bay. Yachts range from 30 to 44 feet in length and are expertly maintained by our experienced and skilled fleet technicians. Yacht charters are available year-round with the option of a bareboat charter or skippered charter. 

The Sportboat Fleet

Our fleet of 24' to 26' sportboats in Berkeley are a fun option for crews of 2 to 4 to enjoy an active day of sailing. With a fleet of ten J/24s and a J/80 for when you’re ready for something a bit more exciting, you’re always able to get out on the Bay.

Modern Sailing members can get qualified to charter our Sportboat Fleet by completing ASA 103, Sportboat Coastal Cruising or the Upgrade to Sportboat Fleet Clinic . 

The Premium Sportboat Fleet

Sailboats in our Premium Sportboat Fleet are larger than our Sportboat fleet (>27') and are equipped with tiller steering, inboard diesel engines, and basic overnighting features.

To charter Premium Sportboats, members must be both Sportboat and Cruising Boat (Silver, Gold, or Platinum Fleet) Rated.

• To charter a Premium Sportboat 29' to 32', a Sportboat Fleet and Silver Fleet (minimum) Ratings are required.
• To charter a Premium Sportboat 33' to 34', a Sportboat Fleet and Gold Fleet (minimum) Ratings are required.

The Silver Fleet

Our Silver Fleet is the largest fleet of Catalina 30s and 320s in the Bay Area. A dependable and spacious yacht, the Catalina 30 was a popular design that launched in the late 1980s. Our Catalina 30 fleet is used for private and group sailing lessons all year long, rain or shine. Larger than the Catalina 30, the Catalina 320 has a sporty racer/cruiser design that delivers both sailing performance and spaciousness below deck. These yachts are perfect for a day or evening sail on the SF Bay with your closest crew.

Club members can rent sailboats in the Silver Fleet after successfully completing a Fleet Rating Checkout on any size vessel or by completing the ASA 103, Basic Coastal Cruising course at Modern Sailing. Hire a captain for a Skippered Sail to enjoy the bay if you are not a Modern Sailing club member.

The Gold Fleet

Our Gold Fleet consists of Beneteau, Jeanneau, Dufour, and Catalina yachts ranging from 35 - 37 ft. long. Enjoy a luxurious sail with the modern amenities that these yachts are renowned for. Conveniently rigged, these yachts feature stack-packs, in-mast furling, dutch reefing systems, and dodgers. The interiors of our Gold Fleet sailboats astound with sleek designs, spacious galleys, and comfy berths. Gold Fleet yachts are popular for day sails and overnight charters at Angel Island, Paradise Cove, and Jack London Square.

The Platinum and Catamaran Fleet - Luxury yacht charters on San Francisco Bay

Experience all that the SF Bay has to offer - in style . Complete with all the amenities needed for simple, comfortable sailing, these Jeanneau, Beneteau, Fountaine Pajot, Seawind, and Lagoon 40 yachts will complete your bay sailing experience. Sized 38 to 40 feet in length, their spacious designs can accommodate 6-8 guests overnight with room to spare.

Pricing Structure

Pricing is tiered and varies according to vessel size and age.

Only Full Day [9:00am - 8:00am the next day] reservation types are bookable online.   Please call our office at (415) 331-8250 or email us if you'd like to make a Sunset [4:00 - 8:00pm] reservation.

Pricing is subject to change without notice. Learn about club membership or hire a captain for a Skippered Sail if club membership isn’t for you. 

How to Get Fleet Rated for Bareboat Chartering

Bareboat charters are available only for members who have successfully completed the required ASA Certification Courses or have undergone a successful Fleet Rating Checkout .

Experienced Sailors

Experienced sailors joining the club are not required to possess certifications but must submit a sailing resume and successfully complete a Fleet Rating Checkout with one of our instructors. Sailors seeking a Fleet Rating to charter have the option of doing a Checkout Clinic or a Private Checkout.

To get started on scheduling a Fleet Rating Checkout, please complete and submit this electronic Request Form .

Beginning Sailors

New members who are beginners can gain access to our fleet by completing ASA Certification Courses at Modern Sailing:

• Completion of our Berkeley ASA 103, Sportboat Basic Coastal Cruising certifies sailors to charter our Berkeley Sportboat Fleet.
• Completion of ASA 103, Basic Coastal Cruising on a 30'+ cruising boat in Sausalito or Berkeley certifies new sailors to charter Silver Fleet (30’ – 32’).
• Students who completed ASA 103 on a cruising boat can add the Sportboat and Premium Sportboat (29'-32') Fleet rating by completing the Upgrade to Sportboat Fleet Clinic .
• Students who completed ASA 103 on a tiller-steered sportboat can add the Premium Sportboat Fleet and Silver Fleet Ratings by taking the Upgrade to Silver Fleet Clinic .
• Students who are Sportboat Fleet and Gold Fleet (minimum) Rated can charter Premium Sportboats sized 33' to 34'.
• ASA 103 graduates who have skippered 4 on-the-water days (4 or more hours each) can qualify to charter the Gold Fleet by completing the Gold Fleet Upgrade Clinic .
• Completion of ASA 104, Bareboat Cruising certifies sailors to charter Silver, Gold (33’ – 37’), and Platinum (37’ – 44’) Fleets.
• To charter catamarans, completion of ASA 114, Cruising Catamaran at Modern Sailing is required. (Note: ASA 103 or 104 or a Fleet Rating Checkout on a monohull is required to charter monohulls in addition to catamarans.)

When a Fleet Rating Checkout is Not Required...

A Fleet Checkout Rating is not required when a member:

• joins the club less than one year after completing ASA 103, ASA 104, or ASA 114 at Modern Sailing, or
• rejoins the club less than two years after the last bareboat charter at Modern Sailing.

How to Get Site Rated to Charter at Both Locations

• Students who completed ASA 103 and/or are Silver Fleet Rated (or above) in Sausalito can get rated to charter in Berkeley by joining a Berkeley Site Orientation Sail .
• Students who complete ASA 103 or are Sportboat Fleet Rated (or above) in Berkeley can get rated to charter in Sausalito by completing an Upgrade to Silver Fleet Clinic or Sausalito Site Orientation Sail .
• Completing ASA 103 at one location and ASA 104 at the other location qualifies members to charter at both locations.
• Once rated to charter at both sites, your original Fleet Rating will remain the same at both sites.

Click here to explore yacht charters on San Francisco Bay.

For more information, contact us. We would be happy to answer any questions that you have about membership and chartering.

News & Events

Dockside briefings - pre-charter orientations for j/boats and coho ii.

At Modern Sailing, we understand that choosing the perfect boat for your charter can sometimes be challenging, especially if you're accustomed to a particular vessel and you haven't tried others with configurations that may be unfamiliar to you.

• Read more about Dockside Briefings - Pre-Charter Orientations for J/Boats and Coho II

How to Get Rated to Charter with a Spinnaker at Modern Sailing

Ready to elevate your sailing experience – especially in winter, or whenever wind conditions are light? Modern Sailing is now making it possible for you to experience the uplifting joys of flying an asymmetrical spinnaker during your bareboat charters!

• Read more about How to Get Rated to Charter with a Spinnaker at Modern Sailing

Daylight Savings' End Brings Changes to Bareboat Chartering

Daylight Saving season ends on November 5, bringing some seasonal changes to chartering at Modern Sailing. The changes described below will go into effect on Monday, November 6.

• Read more about Daylight Savings' End Brings Changes to Bareboat Chartering

Sail the Windward Islands 2024

Flotilla Dates: April 13-23, 2024

Discover St. Lucia and the enchanting Windward Islands of the Caribbean with Modern Sailing School & Club!

The Windward Islands offer a delightful cruising venue of lush tropical islands draped with stunning bays and white sand beaches that spill into warm turquoise waters.

• Read more about Sail the Windward Islands 2024

Unlimited Sailing Sportboat Membership Program

Pay less to play more! Modern Sailing is excited to offer a membership program to make it easier for you to enjoy sailing more frequently! Pay no additional cost when you charter our Berkeley location's J/24s and J/80s as often as you want .

• Read more about Unlimited Sailing Sportboat Membership Program

Oopses, Ouches, and Accidents – What Every MSC Charterer Needs to Know

Sailing can be relaxing, refreshing, invigorating, and sometimes challenging. As an activity that involves human nature and working with the temperamental forces of wind and waves, an incident or accident that results in loss or damage can happen to any skipper.

• Read more about Oopses, Ouches, and Accidents – What Every MSC Charterer Needs to Know

Club Sails - a fun variety of social sails for members and their guests!

Club Sails are a great way for club members to make new friends, learn, and practice while sailing the beautiful San Francisco Bay. There are no certifications or experience required to join a Club Sail. With a wide variety of Club Sails, there's something fun to fit every sailor's schedule!

• Read more about Club Sails - a fun variety of social sails for members and their guests!

Professional Yacht Management Services by MSC

Love the idea of boat ownership, but not the maintenance? Place your yacht in the Modern charter fleet and enjoy more of the benefits of ownership while we manage the finer details of her care and berthing. Sail when you want to - we'll do the rest! And when your boat goes sailing without you, her income helps offset her expenses.

• Read more about Professional Yacht Management Services by MSC

Your First Charter: 5 Essential Resources for New Modern Skippers

Congratulations, new skipper! You've proven that you have what it takes to safely sail on San Francisco Bay. Besides your sailing skills, what else will you need to know to ensure your first charter goes smoothly? Where can you find the help and the information that new skippers need most?

• Read more about Your First Charter: 5 Essential Resources for New Modern Skippers

Choosing The Right Boat for Your Charter

Each boat in the Modern Sailing charter fleet is unique in terms of capacity, features, and equipment. Choosing the ideal combination of features enhances your crew's overall enjoyment of the experience. To choose the right boat for your next charter, ask yourself these four questions...

• Read more about Choosing The Right Boat for Your Charter

Reciprocal Clubs

Looking for opportunities to sail beyond San Francisco Bay? Your Modern Sailing club membership gives you access to other sailing clubs along the beautiful California Coast! Set sail in San Diego, spend the weekend anchored at Catalina Island, or whale watch in Monterey Bay.

• Read more about Reciprocal Clubs

Steer Clear of San Francisco Bay Shipping Traffic

Some of San Francisco Bay's challenge and appeal as sailing grounds is the fascinating array of ships, tugboats and pilot boats, Coast Guard vessels, dredgers, tourist and commuter ferries, and many kinds of power and sailboats that share the Bay.

• Read more about Steer Clear of San Francisco Bay Shipping Traffic

Angel Island - Dock or Moor and Go Explore!

Angel Island State Park is the largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay and is an attractive destination for bay boaters. Ayala Cove, accessible within Racoon Straight on the north side of the island, has the largest public docks and moorings on the bay and is well-protected from wind and

• Read more about Angel Island - Dock or Moor and Go Explore!

Local Cruising Guides: Benicia

Are you ready to explore further into the bay? Would you like to try your hand at an overnight trip? Sail to Benicia to explore a historic, quaint waterfront town with an active art community! This local cruising guide offers an exciting overnight adventure - venturing into the San Pablo Bay, navigating new Straits, and a great selection of restaurants to reward you for your journey!

• Read more about Local Cruising Guides: Benicia

The Commodores Club - Frequent Charter Benefits Program

Modern Sailing provides an exclusive member benefits program to reward our most frequent charterers!

Qualification for the Commodore's Club is based on the number of bareboat charters you do within a calendar year. All bareboat charters count - Sunset or Full Day.

• Read more about The Commodores Club - Frequent Charter Benefits Program

How to get your IPC Card

ASA is proud to offer the first International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) for sailors available in the United States. This certificate is mandatory when chartering in most European / Mediterranean waters.

• Read more about How to get your IPC Card

Membership and Chartering

Members enjoy privileges at our Sausalito and Berkeley locations: a variety of social events aboard and ashore, discounts on courses and clinics, and access to charter a diverse and professionally maintained fleet of sportboats, cruising boats, and cataramans. Join the club and sail!

• Read more about Membership and Chartering

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Testimonials.

I took ASA 101 with them recently. They have the best customer service I've ever seen! I mistyped my address when I signed up online so didn't receive the textbook. I called and the lady immediately sent me another copy! Everyone at the club is super friendly.

I started sailing at Modern at the end of 2021 and threw myself into it, spending as much time out on the water as I could. I came to Modern with some flat water dinghy sailing experience and it was quite a transition learning to sail bigger boats in much tougher conditions. There was a lot to learn, but the Modern instructors, Club Skippers and fellow Modern sailors made learning fun and rewarding. My Modern instructors were clearly very experienced sailors and sailing with them was inspiring! I want to thank the maintenance crew and office staff for their dedication and hard work - you are the folks who make things work! There is a lot more to learn and I look forward to sailing with Modern for years to come.

The meeting room was quite adequate and the location most convenient, but the course outline and instruction were outstanding. Modern Sailing is fortunate to have such a well organized instructor in Mr. Stan Lander who teaches very well from a rich professional background. Mr. Lander was generous with his time and patiently in helping students who needed more attention or time in understanding various aspects of the curriculum.

View All Testimonials

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Modern Sailing School & Club

Sausalito Location 2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito, CA 94965 (415) 331-8250 (800) 995-1668

Berkeley Location 1 Spinnaker Way, Berkeley, CA 94710 (415) 331-8250 (800) 995-1668

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AUDIO TOUR AVAILABLE

Sailing Cruise in San Francisco Bay

DURATION: 90 MINS

For an hour and half, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of Alcatraz Island, the city skyline, the Golden Gate bridge and the Pacific Ocean. If adventure is your style, try out our deck trampolines (be warned, you may get wet!). Super-safe for families and kids - the netting allows you the exhilarating feeling of having the waves rush under your feet, and are also comfortable for just lounging in the sun. Want a break from the wind? Come inside our protected cabin, have a seat and continue to enjoy the sights of the sky and water. Soda, beer and wine are available for purchase at the cabin bar. Our sailing catamarans give a uniquely stable and quiet ride without the noise of engines—you’ll be amazed at the speed wind in your sails can give you! Pick up an audio tour (available in 7 languages) with a helpful navigation guide providing information about San Francisco’s landmarks as you sail past them. Our captain and crew are always happy to snap a photo or answer your questions about San Francisco or our catamarans—you’ll quickly learn our passion for sailing!

Click here  to book a seat on our Bay Sail or call (800) 498-4228.

Adults: $65 (Mon-Weds) $75 (Thurs-Sun) Kids 6-12yr: $35 Kids 5 and under: FREE

Between 1:00pm and 4:00pm daily throughout the season.  Please see our booking calendar for the latest times.

OUR MOST POPULAR SAILS

Sail & Jail: Alcatraz Island Tour Package

Sunset Sail San Francisco Bay

Privacy overview.

GS Charters Sailing San Francisco Bay

Sailing Charters on San Francisco Bay

 Sausalito Sailing Charters

“We Could not ask for a better experience than sailing with Rick”

  ” Rick was a great captain. Full of local information”

“We had an AMAZING time with you. Thanks !”

Private charters

Your sailing charter on San Francisco Bay will be just your group. We take up to six passengers on Gentle Storm, a fast and roomy Catalina 42. The cost is only $200 per hour- plus you get a copy of A layer of Darkness , a crime novel set in San Francisco, written by your skipper. Or you may want the second installment of the series, China Basin.

We sail out of Sausalito, with free parking just steps from the boat.  Sausalito is quite simply the best and most scenic place to begin and end your sailing day .

A longer day could include the half Way to half Moon Bay trip, out to where Grey and Humpback whales have been sighted. Call or email for details for this all day adventure.

[email protected]

Experience Gentle Storm II, a Catalina 42 sailboat- your boat for the day, where air conditioning comes from ocean breezes and the clock is set by tides. A world away from the regular grind. Enter the world of Pelicans, Seals and Harbor Porpoises. Sailing on San Francisco bay is ……

The Real World

Want to get away from crowds sailing is the answer. .

Sailing conditions today, Sept 27: SW winds 8-17 kt.

We offer  private San Francisco bay sailing charters, ocean excursions, office team building exercises and fall sunset sailing trips along the Golden Gate.   more info   Your skipper and owner of Gentle Storm II, Rick Niles understands that your sailing charter is more than an adventure. GS Charters is an experience in knowledgable hospitality. sailing charters Sausalito. Sailing sf bay. Sausalito sailing charters.

Think of Gentle Storm as your boat for the day.

Your sailing charter.

You take part in sailing the boat as much or as little as you like. Your sailboat, your skipper. Depending on your preferences, trips with us can be everything from a full hands-on sailing lesson, to a sight seeing trip where you sit back, sip a glass of wine and enjoy the spectacular scenery and wildlife of San Francisco Bay.

We sail out of Sausalito, with plenty of free parking just steps away from the boat.

Call or email to arrange a charter on Gentle Storm II. If it is raining on your day, we reschedule or give a full refund on your deposit. more info . For that matter, you may reschedule for any reason.

Sailing San Francisco for more than 30 years

707 235-6295

• WEATHER FORECAST
• TODAY'S TIDES & CURRENTS

San Francisco Bay Monday May 14 2018 09:02 PDT NOAA Forecast

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM PDT THIS EVENING... ...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

OVERNIGHT...SW winds 5 to 15 kt. Gusts up to 25 kt early this evening.

FRI...W winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

FRI NIGHT...N winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

SAT...W winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

SAT NIGHT...SW winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

SUN...SW winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

SUN NIGHT...SW winds 10 to 20 kt with gusts up to 30 kt.

MON...SW winds 5 to 15 kt.

TUE...SW winds 5 to 15 kt.

Golden Gate NOAA Tide and Current Predictions

Interested In Sailing?

Interested in Sailing With Us?

Whether interested in a formal or casual event, we offer great food & a full range of bar services.

Welcome Aboard

Named after the famous author, Jack London, Yukon Jack embodies his sense of adventure and travel. She won the San Francisco to Tahiti race in 1995, an accomplishment that would surely please Mr. London. Yukon Jack is the perfect site for entertaining customers (a captive audience indeed) a great idea for your next corporate meeting or employee team builder, maybe a birthday or celebration for the "old salt" in the family, or perhaps an intimate anniversary or wedding with the Captain performing the ceremony.   Click Here for More info on Yukon Jack

Pier 40, South Beach Harbor San Francisco, California 94107 Call Us! +415-543-7333

[email protected]

With hundreds of sailing and motor yacht charters in San Francisco annually, Rendezvous Charters stands out among the best. From start to finish, we strive for a relaxing, fun, and lasting experience.

Rendezvous Charters coordinates charters for over 40 sailing and motor yachts in California. We have 30 years of experience in the business. From top-of-the-line catered programs to a casual Angel Island Barbecue, we have something for everyone.

Specials, Events and News We’ll email you with our latest deals, events, news, and videos.

© 2018 Rendezvous Charters. All Rights Reserved.

SF Bay Yacht Charter

Life is about moments.

San Francisco Yacht Charter

Cruise the san francisco bay on a private 40 foot yacht with family and friends, experience a procured private charter on the san francisco bay., embark on an unforgettable adventure through the shimmering waters of the san francisco bay with our exclusive private yacht charter experience. discover the true essence of luxury as you indulge in the opulence and comfort of our meticulously designed yacht. feel the gentle breeze as you glide beneath the iconic golden gate bridge, capturing breathtaking views of the city's stunning skyline. our expert crew will cater to your every need, ensuring that your journey is filled with personalized service and unparalleled hospitality. whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city, our private yacht charter offers an unparalleled escape into a world of refined elegance and natural beauty. immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the san francisco bay, where every moment becomes a cherished memory., call us directly at (925) 269-4343.

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• Learn to Sail/Sail School
• Catering Menu

• Daily Sails
• Private Charters
• Team Building & Off Sites

SAN FRANCISCO

Sailing company, explore. dream. discover..

Sailing is our passion and we want to share it with as many people as possible.  San Francisco has long been known for having some of the best sailing experiences in the world and we are excited to take you sailing! We know that no sailing tour is like the other. You explore, discover, feel, see and experience something new every time you set your sails and every trip is unique and like no other. The weather, the waves, the wind, everything changes and brings new memories.  Hop on our daily charters for as little as $99 or choose from one of our many unique private charter packages to make your outing one to remember!

Customer Review

“Very exhilarating experience - Although the city is full of culture, excellent food, and lots of energy, there is nothing like sailing in the open water, seeing wildlife and the gorgeous city from afar. You're in the middle of the Bay with amazing views of Alcatraz, Golden Gate bridge, Bay Bridge right off the dock. Run by a very competent, fun, and professional crew.” - Sally & Ben from Oregon

Explore the San Francisco Bay!

We are conveniently located at the Pier 39 Marina in San Francisco, which is a world-class destination. Pier 39 Marina is centrally located to provide access to great central bay sailing destinations like Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco waterfront.

• Learn to Sail / Sailing School

• WEATHER FORECAST
• TODAY'S TIDES & CURRENTS

San Francisco Bay Friday September 27 2024 08:31 PDT NOAA Forecast

Golden gate noaa tide and current predictions.

BOAT SALES Call the Spinnaker Sailing Office at 415-543-7333 for a Demo Sail.

• Sport Boats
• Used Motoryachts
• Used Sailboats

WELCOME ABOARD

• We are the only sailing school on the West Coast that has their FULL curriculum available on YouTube for our Students! Check it out Here
• We offer the lowest student to instructor ratio at 2 students to 1 teacher on our Basic Keelboat Classes. We're the only school that guarantees no more than 2 students.  That adds up to individualized attention and much more time hands on driving the boat which is super important! 
• We have the youngest, best maintained school fleet in the USA. All of our competitors in NorCal use boats that are 30 years older than ours, at best. Some use boat 50 years older than ours. We use modern performance sailboats as the perfect platform for teaching. Young boats = better lessons. 
• We are located at one of the best Marinas in Northern California. No long channels to navigate. You are sailing within a few minutes of leaving your slip.
• We are South of the Bay bridge in more protected waters which is perfect for learning. We have plenty of breeze but none of the huge waves that happen in the middle of the Bay.
• We have professional, talented and most of all FUN instructors, staff and skippers.
• When you take lessons from us, we'll help you get out on the water. Whether it's buying a boat, joining a club or doing some racing, students of the school get free consulting!
• We are evangelists. We work hard to make sailing approachable and keep it affordable. We want you to be a GREAT sailor and will provide you the tools to be just that. Your family and friends will appreciate your high skill level when you take them sailing!

Thanks for taking a look at us, If you have ANY questions at all, please call 415-543-7333 . One of our friendly staff will be happy to help you. 

Cole, Miles, Garett, David & Drew.  

Pier 40, South Beach Harbor San Francisco, California 94107 415-543-7333 [email protected]

Yes, We are OPEN, Offering Sailing Lessons, Private Charters (up to 20 pax), Skippered Charters & Bareboat Charters. "Go Sailing It'll Do You Some Good!"

© 2022 Spinnaker-Sailing San Francisco. All Rights Reserved.

San Francisco Bay Sailing

Charter a sailboat on san francisco bay.

• Book your adventure
• Capt. Patrick
• Captain’s log
• Other stuff

Charter a Sailboat and Let’s Go Sailing!

Hoist the main!

There’s nothing like sailing on San Francisco Bay. Aboard St. Maurice, you’re not on a tourist ride. Take the helm aboard Capt. Patrick’s meticulously maintained personal sailing yacht for a trip you won’t soon forget. 

Unfurl the jib!

Capt. Patrick,  a Coast Guard-licensed skipper, has sailed these waters for decades. Let him give you the benefit of his experience. Don’t just sit on the dock and dream about it … get out there and charter a sailboat!

What other guests have said

Recommended

Participation

“Patrick was a wonderful host  since he is an educator for a sailing course in Redwood City. He incorporated us into the experience which made it so much more fun and helped deepen our basic understanding of sailing. Tip: Steering is a LOT harder than it seems. 🙂 10/10 would do the experience again.”