Do I need sailing experience to join?

No prior sailing experience is required. The crew will teach you everything needed to pitch in as part of the team.

What meals are provided on the trip?

Fresh local seafood and others meals prepared onboard are included; you’ll also help with cooking responsibilities.

Are children allowed on the trip?

Children over 12 are welcome; all children 12 and under must wear life jackets at all times.

What should I bring for activities like parasailing or fishing?

Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and any personal gear you prefer; equipment for activities is provided locally.

How many people are on the boat?

Trips accommodate up to 4 participants, ensuring a hands-on experience with close crew interaction.

Is transportation to San Diego harbor included?

Transportation to and from the San Diego departure point is not included and should be arranged independently.

Sailing to Catalina Island with Sterling Sails | Fishing | Boat Tour

Set sail from San Diego’s bustling Harbor Island and embark on a distinctive 4-day adventure with Sterling Sails’ Catalina Wine Mixer. This trip is not your typical island getaway; it combines hands-on sailing with the laid-back charm of Catalina Island’s Avalon, just 22 miles off the Southern California coast. As you work together with your small crew, you’ll navigate cerulean waters, learn essential sailing skills, and contribute to daily onboard tasks like meal prep and mooring, turning strangers into a tight-knit team.

Avalon offers a vibrant backdrop where coastal cliffs meet turquoise coves. This small harbor town features crisp, mid-century architecture alongside unique shops and inviting cafes. Rent a golf cart to tour beyond the shoreline or launch off the pier for parasailing sessions that reveal the island’s wild terrain from above. Deep-sea fishing is another standout experience here, with the rich Pacific waters yielding yellowtail, calicos, and sometimes even more exotic catches.

The island’s natural environment is marked by rugged volcanic rock formations and sagebrush-dotted hillsides, sheltering species like the Catalina Island fox and bald eagles. The island’s history echoes Catalina’s early days as a resort getaway dating back to the 1920s, a legacy that blends leisure and maritime culture.

What makes the Catalina Wine Mixer unique is its balance of relaxation and engagement—daytime thrills segue into evenings savored with freshly prepared local seafood and panoramic sunset views from the deck. It’s a rare chance to disconnect from the mainland’s pace and immerse yourself in a cooperative, real-world sailing experience, all while soaking up one of California’s most distinctive island escapes. Sterling Sails’ personal approach and crew-involvement make this trip a standout for those drawn to active, social ocean adventures.