4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people - Customizable Route with Opportunities for Wildlife Encounters

4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people

Experience a private 4-hour sailing tour in San Diego for up to 6 people, with customizable routes, wildlife sightings, and a knowledgeable captain for an authentic maritime adventure.

A 4-hour private sailing tour in San Diego offers an intimate, customizable experience aboard a vintage yacht for up to 6 guests. Priced at $1,100, this excursion combines the thrill of close encounters with marine wildlife with the comfort of a spacious outdoor deck and a dedicated skipper. The tour departs from 1450 Harbor Island Drive and provides a flexible itinerary, allowing travelers to venture beyond the bay into the ocean depending on the winds.

We appreciate the personalized nature of this trip, run exclusively for your group, and the inclusion of free snacks adds a welcoming touch. While parking fees are not included, the perfect timing at noon makes this tour suitable for those wanting a midday escape. This experience shines brightest for those seeking a relaxed, private, sailing adventure with a knowledgeable guide and plenty of opportunities to view native wildlife.

Key Points

4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people - Key Points

  • Private, customizable sailing experience for up to 6 people
  • Four hours of cruising on a vintage yacht with an experienced captain
  • Opportunities to see marine wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of San Diego landmarks
  • Free snacks included, with the option to venture into the open ocean depending on wind conditions
  • Convenient meeting point at Cabrillo Isle Marina with flexible weather policies
  • Excellent reviews highlight guides’ professionalism and safety

San Diego’s Best Private Yacht Charter for Up to 6 Guests

This 4-hour private sailing tour offers an exclusive chance to enjoy San Diego Bay and its scenic coastlines aboard a vintage sailing yacht. Priced at $1,100 per group, it is an ideal choice for intimate celebrations, family outings, or small groups of friends seeking a personalized maritime experience. The tour is operated by San Diego Sailing Tours, and the entire experience is designed to be flexible, allowing the captain to adapt the route based on wind conditions.

The meeting point is conveniently located at the sealion fountain near Cabrillo Isle Marina, where the captain greets you. The four-hour duration provides ample time to enjoy panoramic views of Downtown San Diego, Point Loma, Shelter Island, and Coronado Island. Travelers can expect a safe and smooth sailing experience thanks to an experienced skipper, with the option to venture into the ocean beyond the bay if weather permits.

Starting Point and Meeting Details at Cabrillo Isle Marina

4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people - Starting Point and Meeting Details at Cabrillo Isle Marina

The tour begins right by the sealion fountain at the Cabrillo Isle Marina entrance. The skipper meets your group at 1450 Harbor Island Drive, setting the tone for a personalized adventure. The start time is typically at 12:00 pm, perfect for those wanting to enjoy a midday escape from the city’s hustle.

As a mobile ticket experience, the tour offers easy access with the flexibility to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind that parking fees are on your own, and all travelers need to bring a photo ID for check-in.

Customizable Route with Opportunities for Wildlife Encounters

4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people - Customizable Route with Opportunities for Wildlife Encounters

One of the tour’s highlights is its flexibility. Depending on wind conditions, the captain can decide whether to stay within San Diego Bay or venture into the open ocean. This ability to adapt makes each trip unique and tailored to your preferences.

Guests have frequent opportunities to see marine wildlife such as seals and sea lions, which are common in this area. The spacious outdoor deck provides plenty of space for sightseeing and spotting native animals in their natural environment. This makes it a great choice for nature lovers eager to observe local aquatic life from close quarters.

The Vintage Yacht and Its Comfort Features

The yacht used for this private tour is classically restored, combining charm and functionality. Its spacious outdoor deck is designed for comfortable sightseeing, allowing guests to take in the views while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

While the interior is not the focus of this experience, free snacks are included to keep you comfortable during the cruise. The boat’s modern safety features and the experienced skipper ensure a smooth sailing throughout the journey, regardless of weather conditions.

The Guide and Captain: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The skipper is central to the experience, offering a professional, friendly, and informative presence on board. Multiple reviews highlight their enthusiasm, safety awareness, and love for wildlife, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

Captains such as Captain Terry, Eric, Alan, Kyle, and Kirk receive praise for their personalized approach and ability to keep the trip engaging, even when weather is less than ideal. The guides are well-versed in sailing techniques, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Weather Considerations and Flexibility

Since the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, poor weather can result in cancellation. In such cases, a full refund or alternative date is offered. Rain does not necessarily cancel the trip, as guides like Eric have managed to keep the experience fun and interesting despite weather challenges.

Travelers are advised to wear soft-soled shoes and avoid high heels or black-soled shoes, to ensure safety and comfort on board.

Practical Tips for Your Private Sailing Adventure

While parking fees are not included, the meeting point at Cabrillo Isle Marina is well-situated. Arriving a little early allows for a relaxed start. Bring photo identification for check-in, and note that legal drinking age applies for alcohol consumption—persons 21 and up are permitted to drink.

Given the flexibility of the route, it’s wise to discuss your preferences with the captain beforehand, whether you want to focus on wildlife, sightseeing, or a mix of both. The snacks provided add a nice touch, but you might consider bringing additional drinks or marine-friendly snacks if desired.

The Value and Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This private sailing experience offers a personalized, intimate way to explore San Diego’s coastline. Its 4-hour length strikes a good balance between relaxation and sightseeing, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups wanting a luxury, customizable outing.

The high review scores reflect guides’ professionalism and the quality of the experience. While the price may seem higher than public tours, the exclusivity, personal attention, and flexible itinerary provide great value for those seeking a tailored marine adventure.

✨ Book This Experience

4 Hour Private Sail for up to 6 people



5.0

(12 reviews)

92% 5-star

“We had originally booked a Pacific sailing tour, which was canceled by the operator, San Diego sailing tours. We contacted them directly and they b…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Aug 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable on a boat and the legal drinking age restrictions are respected. The experience is generally family-friendly.

Can I book the tour for a specific time?
The typical start time is 12:00 pm, but confirmation is received within 48 hours and is subject to availability.

What should I wear for the sailing trip?
Wear soft-soled shoes and consider bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change quickly on the water.

Is there an age limit for this tour?
There is no explicit age limit, but children should be comfortable on a boat, and legal drinking age is 21 and up if you plan to consume alcohol.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled with a full refund or rescheduled for a different date. Guides will inform you of weather-related cancellations.

A private 4-hour sailing tour in San Diego offers a relaxed, customizable, and scenic way to experience the bay, wildlife, and coastal views. With expert guides, free snacks, and the ability to tailor the route, it’s an appealing choice for those seeking a personalized maritime escape.