San Diego Bay: Private Sailing Charter with Champagne & Snacks

Summary

Private yacht sails past sea lions and city lights with champagne

You’ll board a spacious private yacht in San Diego Bay, meet Captain Liz (who actually listens), sip chilled champagne as you pass sea lions and city landmarks, and watch sunset colors spill across the water. With snacks included and plenty of space to relax or take photos, it’s less about sightseeing and more about letting go for a couple hours.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment when you first step onto the Mojave — shoes off, deck warm under your feet, the breeze off San Diego Bay carrying just a hint of salt and sunscreen. The sail’s got this huge peace sign stitched right into it. I didn’t expect that. Captain Liz grinned when she saw me staring up at it and said, “We like to keep things mellow out here.” She meant it. Within minutes we were gliding away from the marina, city noise fading behind us, gulls wheeling overhead like they owned the place.

We passed close enough to the Midway that you could almost hear echoes of old stories clinging to its sides (Liz knows a few — ask her about the pilots). There were sea lions barking somewhere near Shelter Island, and every so often someone would shout when they spotted one sunbathing on a buoy. I tried to say ‘cheers’ in Spanish when Liz handed us our bottle of champagne — probably butchered it, but nobody cared. The bubbles tasted colder out there than they ever do on land. We had snacks and sodas in arm’s reach (you can bring your own stuff too), music playing low from a little speaker tucked near the wheel.

The sky kept changing — blue then gold then kind of lavender as sunset crept in. My friend took about fifty photos of the skyline but honestly I just watched the water ripple orange under the hull. It was quieter than I thought it’d be; even with laughter and music there was this hush underneath everything. At one point Liz let us steer for a bit — she stood nearby but trusted us not to crash into anything important (I still think about how calm she was). The whole thing felt easy, like time stretched out longer than two hours should allow.

If you’re after some big adventure or wild party, maybe look elsewhere. But if you want that soft feeling of being far away without leaving San Diego behind — this private sailing experience is kind of perfect for that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private 2-hour sailing in San Diego Bay

• Board luxury sailing yacht Mojave
• Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages
• Sail through San Diego Bay
• View Midway and local wildlife
• Listen to Captain Liz's stories
• Play music and relax on deck
• Toast with provided champagne
• Return to dock after 2 hours

Top questions

How long is the private sailing experience in San Diego Bay?

The sailing experience lasts 2 hours from start to finish.

Are snacks and drinks included on this San Diego sailing tour?

Yes, complimentary snacks, soda, bottled water, and one bottle of champagne are included.

Is there a restroom on board during the charter?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the Mojave yacht for guests’ use.

Can we bring our own food or drinks?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring any additional food or drinks you’d like onboard.

Who is the captain for this San Diego Bay private sail?

The charter is led by Captain Liz from Sterling Sails.

Is this sailing tour suitable for families or kids?

Yes, all ages are welcome and it’s suitable for families or groups of friends.

What sights will we see during the sailing trip?

You’ll see views of downtown San Diego skyline, historic ships like the Midway, sea lions near buoys, and possibly sunsets over Point Loma.

What’s included

Your two-hour private charter includes pickup at the marina dockside in San Diego Bay with Captain Liz at the helm; complimentary snacks, soda pop, bottled water, plus one bottle of champagne per group; access to an onboard restroom; music via speaker; fridge space if you bring extra treats; and plenty of time to relax or snap photos along your chosen route before returning ashore.