Private Sailing Charter: Up to 24 Passengers

A private sailing charter in San Francisco offers an exclusive way to enjoy the city’s stunning coastal sights. With a price of $1,207.50 per group, this tour comfortably accommodates up to 24 guests, providing a relaxed and personalized experience. The trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, setting the perfect pace for sightseeing without feeling rushed. This tour is ideal for families, friends, or special occasions seeking a memorable outing on the water, with the added benefit of full privacy and a dedicated captain and crew.

While the classic boats are Coast Guard licensed for 34 passengers, limiting the group size to 24 or fewer ensures a more comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The tour departs from Pier 39 and features a mobile ticket, making it easy to join and enjoy the magnificent views of San Francisco Bay.

Key Points

• Private experience for up to 24 guests, ideal for families or small groups
• Approximate duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Departure point at Pier 39 in San Francisco
• Includes entire boat, captain, crew, and gratuity
• Customizable route with highlights including Alcatraz, Angel Island, Sausalito, and the Golden Gate Bridge
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Departing from Pier 39: The Meeting Point for San Francisco Bay

This tour begins at The Marina at Pier 39, BLDG M, Pier 39 Concourse. The location is easily accessible by public transportation, making the start convenient for most visitors. The meeting point provides a scenic backdrop for the beginning of your water adventure, with the bustling Pier 39 atmosphere adding to the excitement.

The end of the tour is back at the same pier, allowing for seamless connections to other activities or transportation routes. The mobile ticket ensures a smooth check-in process, so you can focus on the anticipation of the sail ahead.

The Classic Route: Sights and Stops on San Francisco Bay

The standard route for this private charter includes several iconic sights. The tour departs from Pier 39 and heads toward Alcatraz, offering breathtaking views from the water of the infamous former prison. Next, the boat sails past Angel Island, home to the historic immigration station, often called the Ellis Island of the West.

Travelers then enjoy cruising up to Sausalito, a charming waterfront town visible from the water, with spectacular vistas of its colorful houses and marina. The route continues to parallel the Golden Gate Bridge, providing one of the best vantage points to see this world-famous structure. Finally, the boat sails along the city front, showcasing the skyline and other notable landmarks of San Francisco.

Viewing the Golden Gate Bridge from the Water

One of the main highlights of this sailing tour is the opportunity to see the Golden Gate Bridge from a unique perspective. The boat approaches the bridge closely, giving passengers excellent, unobstructed views. This vantage point allows for memorable photos, capturing the iconic span against the backdrop of San Francisco’s skyline and the bay.

Since the tour offers excellent bridge views throughout, you’ll find many chances to take stunning photographs or simply enjoy the sight from the deck. The experience of seeing the bridge as sailors did when it was built adds a historic touch to the scenic adventure.

Sail Past Angel Island: The West Coast’s Ellis Island

Cruising past Angel Island provides a chance to glimpse this historic site from the water. Once the immigration station for the entire west coast, Angel Island’s rugged beauty and historic significance make it a notable stop on the tour.

This stop offers a peaceful view of the island’s natural landscape, contrasting with the busy city and the bustling pier. The boat’s vantage point makes it easy to appreciate the island’s role in California’s immigration history and admire its picturesque setting.

Exploring Sausalito from the Water

The waterfront town of Sausalito is a highlight of the trip, visible from the boat as it sails through Richardson Bay. Known for its artistic community and scenic marina, Sausalito presents a colorful and inviting landscape from the water.

The tour provides an excellent view of Sausalito’s charming waterfront, with opportunities to soak in the town’s relaxed atmosphere from the boat’s deck. This stop is perfect for those interested in capturing the town’s beauty or just enjoying the tranquil bay scenery.

The Comfort of a Private Sailboat Experience

This private sailing charter ensures an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, with the boat limited to 24 guests for comfort and class. The full boat is reserved exclusively for your group, creating a personalized atmosphere that isn’t crowded or noisy.

You benefit from the expertise of a captain and crew, who provide attentive service and ensure safety throughout the trip. The gratuity is included in the price, making the experience straightforward and hassle-free.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

The tour requires good weather to operate smoothly. If canceled due to poor weather conditions, you’ll be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, while cancellations less than 24 hours before departure are not refunded.

This flexible policy helps ensure a stress-free planning process, especially given San Francisco’s often changeable weather. It’s advisable to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

The Experience of a Top-Rated Crew

The boat crew on this tour is described as top notch. They are attentive, professional, and experienced, contributing greatly to the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere onboard. Their expertise helps passengers feel safe and well cared for throughout the approximately 90-minute sail.

The company’s focus on privacy and personalized service makes this sailing experience stand out compared to larger, less intimate tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private sailing adventure suits those seeking a calm, scenic, and exclusive way to explore San Francisco Bay. It’s perfect for families, small groups of friends, or couples celebrating special occasions. The custom route option also makes it suitable for guests who want to tailor their experience to specific sights or interests.

Given the stunning views of Alcatraz, Angel Island, Sausalito, and the Golden Gate Bridge, this tour offers a unique perspective of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks—ideal for photography lovers and those craving a peaceful escape on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boats are coast guard licensed for 34 passengers, but groups are limited to 24 or fewer for better comfort and a more relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
The entire boat, captain, crew, and gratuity are included in the $1,207.50 fee for the group.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from Pier 39 at The Marina and returns to the same location.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, you can stick with the standard route or tell the crew where you want to go—it’s your boat and your party.

How long is the sailing trip?
The trip lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or rescheduling. Cancellations less than 24 hours before departure are not refundable.

Is this tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 27 days in advance, so plan early for peak times.

Is this tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, since most travelers can participate, and no specific physical requirements are noted.

This private sailing tour in San Francisco Bay offers a relaxed, scenic, and intimate way to see some of the city’s most famous sights from the water. With flexible routes, a professional crew, and stunning views, it provides a memorable experience for small groups wanting a personalized coastal adventure.