San Diego Bay: Sunset & Day Sail Small Group Tour

Summary

Sail past coronado bridge see dolphins unwind with a drink as san diego glows

You’ll glide through San Diego Bay on a small-group sailboat at sunset, spotting dolphins and sea lions while sipping included drinks. See icons like Coronado Bridge and historic ships up close with your local guide pointing out hidden details. Feel both relaxed and quietly awed as city lights flicker on behind you—this is an evening you’ll want to linger in.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you see that?” someone whispered, pointing just off the bow. I leaned over the rail, squinting into the gold light spilling across San Diego Bay. There they were—dolphins, a whole pod, surfacing like they were in on our secret. The captain (I think his name was Mike?) grinned and slowed the sailboat so we could watch them play. The air smelled faintly salty and a little sweet from someone’s sunscreen. Honestly, I’d forgotten how quiet it gets out on the water—even with downtown San Diego right there behind us.

We sailed under the Coronado Bridge, which looks way taller from below than it does from your car window. Our guide pointed out the Maritime Museum ships bobbing near the shore—the Star of India looked almost ghostly in the evening haze. I tried to take a photo but ended up just watching instead. There was a soft clink of glasses as someone opened a bottle (drinks are included), and for a minute nobody said much—just listened to the rigging creak and watched seabirds skim low over the waves. I didn’t expect to feel so calm; maybe it was the rhythm of the boat or just being part of such a small group.

At one point we passed close to Point Loma, where you can spot Cabrillo National Monument if you know where to look (I didn’t until our guide showed me). The sun was dropping fast by then—sky all streaked pink and orange—and I remember thinking I should’ve brought a sweater but not really caring because it felt good to be chilly for once. There’s something about seeing San Diego from this angle that makes it feel new again. We talked about maybe coming back for a day trip or checking out Coronado after docking, but honestly I still think about that view as we sailed back toward Shelter Island in half-darkness.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sailing and waterfront sights

• Depart from marina
• Sail past USS Midway
• View Coronado Bridge
• Pass Seaport Village
• Spot dolphins and sea lions
• Enjoy sunset views
• See Maritime Museum ships
• Pass San Diego Convention Center
• Stroll San Diego Baywalk

Top questions

How many people are on the San Diego sunset sail?

The small group tour is for up to six passengers per sailboat.

Are drinks included on this San Diego sailing tour?

Yes, alcoholic beverages, soda/pop, and bottled water are included during your sail.

What wildlife can you see during the sunset sailing?

You may spot dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds while sailing in San Diego Bay.

Does this tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; departure is from the marina near downtown San Diego.

Is this sailing experience suitable for children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

What landmarks will we see during this tour?

You’ll pass by Coronado Bridge, Maritime Museum ships, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, Seaport Village, and downtown San Diego skyline.

Can I help sail or just relax?

You’re welcome to take the helm for a bit or simply unwind with a drink in hand—it’s up to you.

How long does the sunset sailing excursion last?

The duration isn’t specified here but typically sunset sails last around 2-3 hours in San Diego Bay.

What’s included

Your evening includes sailing aboard a mono-hull boat with space for up to six guests, all alcoholic beverages plus soda or bottled water provided onboard—just show up at the marina ready for an easygoing cruise with your local guide before returning after sunset.