San Diego: Sunset Catamaran Sail with Drinks & Small Group

Summary

San Diego sunset sail gliding past skyline sea lions and laughter

You’ll glide through San Diego Bay on a catamaran at sunset, sip wine or beer with just a small group around you, spot sea lions and maybe dolphins near Coronado Bridge, and stretch out on bow nets while city lights flicker behind. It’s relaxed, unhurried—a couple hours where you’re not checking your phone much at all.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped barefoot onto the catamaran in San Diego just as the sun started dipping behind the city skyline—felt that salty air hit my face right away. Our guide, Mark (he’s got this easy way about him), handed out cold beers and pointed out Coronado Bay Bridge as we pulled away from the dock. The boat moved so smoothly—no weird rocking, just this gentle glide—and you could hear the water slapping against the hull. I picked a spot up front on those net things (never been on a catamaran before) and honestly, it felt like lying in a hammock over the ocean. Someone nearby laughed when a sea lion barked at us from a buoy—sounded almost like it was complaining about our playlist.

Mark cut the motor once we got past the Embarcadero, and suddenly it was just wind in the sails and people talking low. There was this moment where I caught myself staring at the Midway aircraft carrier all lit up, thinking how weirdly peaceful everything looked compared to downtown traffic earlier. My friend tried steering for a bit—Mark let anyone who wanted take the wheel—and she almost veered us into a flock of seabirds (don’t worry, they were way faster than us). The drinks kept coming; I tried some Mexican beer I’d never heard of before. Tasted light and kind of citrusy, or maybe that was just my brain mixing flavors with sunset.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed with strangers around—maybe because it really was just a handful of us, nobody crowding or shouting for selfies. At one point someone wrapped up in one of those blankets they give you and pointed out dolphins swimming alongside; everyone got quiet for a second watching them pop up in pairs. It’s funny how quickly you forget about your phone when there’s actual wind on your face and people sharing stories (or bad jokes—I’m guilty). The light kept changing on the water until it all went soft orange, then blue again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 2.5-hour catamaran sailing tour

• Board catamaran in San Diego
• Set sail exploring the harbor
• View downtown skyline and Coronado Bay Bridge
• See Embarcadero and Midway aircraft carrier
• Spot sea lions, seabirds, and dolphins
• Turn off motor to enjoy wind sailing
• Relax on cushioned seating areas
• Option to take the wheel and sail
• Return to dock and disembark

Top questions

Is this San Diego sunset catamaran sail suitable for kids?

Yes, it's comfortable for all ages—even infants can ride in strollers onboard.

Are drinks included during the sunset sail?

Yes, beer (domestic & Mexican), wine, soft drinks, and bottled water are included.

How long does the San Diego sunset sail last?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours from boarding to return.

Will I get seasick on this catamaran tour?

The catamaran is stable and designed to minimize rolling; seasickness is unlikely.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

You can bring your own special food or drinks except red wine.

What landmarks will we see during the sail?

You’ll see Coronado Bay Bridge, downtown skyline, Embarcadero, and Midway aircraft carrier.

Are bathroom facilities available onboard?

Yes, there are convenient bathrooms on the catamaran.

Is hotel pickup included for this sunset cruise?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you board directly at the marina.

What’s included

Your evening includes 2.5 hours sailing San Diego Bay aboard a spacious catamaran with blankets to keep warm as night falls. Beer (domestic and Mexican), wine, soft drinks, bottled water are provided throughout—plus you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks (just no red wine). There’s plenty of cushioned seating for everyone and bathrooms onboard if needed before heading back ashore after sunset.