Private Catamaran Sailing Cruise San Diego Bay: Up to 6 Guests

A 32-foot catamaran steady enough to let you take the wheel or stretch out in the sun.

A private catamaran sailing cruise on San Diego Bay for up to six guests, with a live English-speaking guide and two hours to sail past downtown, the naval base, and the coastal waters beyond. You can take the helm if you want to, or sit back while the skipper handles the sailing. Sea lions, dolphins and whales show up regularly in these waters.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private catamaran sailing on San Diego Bay

• Board private catamaran Sea Esta
• Sail around San Diego Bay
• Enjoy views of downtown and naval base
• Spot sea lions, dolphins, and whales
• Take turns steering the boat
• Relax and enjoy the sunshine

The experience

What does a private boat charter on San Diego Bay actually feel like? It depends on what you want: if you're drawn to sailing, you get time at the wheel on a 32-foot catamaran named Sea Esta, a 1997 Renaissance that's heavier and more stable than most boats built today. If you'd rather not steer, there's plenty of room to stretch out in the San Diego sunshine while the guide manages the sail. Either way, the boat moves through downtown views, past the naval base with its aircraft carriers and destroyers, and into the coastal waters where the wildlife tends to gather.

The two-hour sail includes bottled water and snacks. The guide has over 20 years of experience on San Diego Bay and the surrounding harbor, so they know where to find the sea lions, dolphins and whales that move through these waters. The catamaran operates in all weather, so bring layers or a light jacket depending on the season. Everyone aboard gets a chance at the wheel if they feel like it. There's no pressure either way.

This works for corporate events, proposals, anniversaries, birthdays or a simple sunset sail with people you want to spend time with. The boat holds up to six guests, so it's intimate without feeling cramped. Book directly with the operator to confirm your preferred date and time.

What’s included

• Bottled water and snacks are provided.
• a live English-speaking guide with over 20 years of experience on San Diego Bay.
• time at the wheel if you want it, or a comfortable seat in the sun if you don't.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 11:00, 14:00 and 17:00

Book up to12h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Pacifica Sailing Charters San Diego Sailing Trips and Boat Tours

Is this one for you?The sail lasts two hours and everyone aboard stays on the boat the whole time, so this suits travelers who are comfortable on the water and don't need to step ashore. If you want to steer, you'll get your turn. If you'd rather watch, that works just as well.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

Can I actually steer the catamaran, or does the guide do all the sailing?

Everyone gets a chance at the wheel if they feel adventurous. You can take the helm and steer, or you can sit back and let the skipper handle the sailing. It's entirely up to you and what you're comfortable with.

What kind of wildlife will we see on San Diego Bay?

Sea lions, dolphins and whales show up regularly in these waters. The guide's 20 years of experience on the bay means they know where to look and when the animals are most likely to appear.

How stable is the catamaran in rough water?

Sea Esta is a 32-foot catamaran built heavier than most modern boats, which gives it a steady, smooth ride regardless of the conditions. The boat operates in all weather.

Is this a good option for a special occasion like a proposal or anniversary?

Yes. The private charter works for proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events and romantic sunset sails. You have the boat and guide to yourself for the full two hours.

What's included in the price?

Bottled water and snacks are included. Tipping your captain and crew is customary and typically ranges from 18–20% of the charter fee.