Set sail on a private 2-hour boat tour in Santa Cruz with Chardonnay Sailing Charters. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and two complimentary drinks while cruising the Pacific.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Santa Cruz has a rich maritime history as a whaling and fishing hub dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Chardonnay Sailing Charters supports local marine conservation efforts by promoting responsible wildlife viewing and minimizing environmental impact.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters
Set sail on a private 2-hour boat tour in Santa Cruz with Chardonnay Sailing Charters. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and two complimentary drinks while cruising the Pacific.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters is a Santa Cruz–based sailing operator offering short, memorable cruises on Monterey Bay. Operating a top-of-the-line sailboat (including the Chardonnay II for select sails), the company runs themed 1.5- and 2-hour charters that highlight wildlife viewing, coastal scenery, craft beer and wine pairings, and local cuisine.
Trips include family-friendly morning Eco-Adventure sails ideal for whale watching, two-hour coastal charters with complimentary drink tickets, adult-focused Brewmaster and Winemaker sails with local beers and wines, and special culinary charters featuring pizza, Champagne brunch, or pupus from Pono Hawaiian Kitchen. Seasonal programming includes neighborhood BYO evenings and The Taste of Santa Cruz culinary tours.
Safety and guest experience are prioritized: licensed crew, life jackets, clear boarding instructions, and small-group departures ensure comfortable outings. Several charters are 21+ when alcohol is provided; family-friendly options are available for all ages. Bookings accommodate private events and group celebrations with flexible scheduling during peak months.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters is trusted locally for transparent pricing, consistent seasonal schedules (March–October for specialty runs), and curated partnerships with local restaurants and breweries. The operator’s combination of coastal expertise, hospitality, and themed culinary experiences makes these short Monterey Bay sails a reliable choice for visitors and residents seeking a distinctive ocean outing.
Tours Offered
10
Diverse coastal and culinary sails
Duration
1.5–2 hrs
Short, scenic adventures
Family Friendly
Yes
Whale watching and relaxed sails
Seasonal Runs
Mar–Oct
Special charters and neighborhood nights
Reserve a spot on a 1.5–2 hour Santa Cruz charter for whale watching, coastal views, and seasonal culinary experiences.
Dress in layers
Coastal temperatures can vary, so wear layers to stay comfortable as the weather changes.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure is high when out on the water, so protect your skin and eyes.
Arrive early for smooth boarding
Getting to the dock at least 15 minutes prior helps ensure a stress-free boarding process.
Motion sickness preparation
Those prone to seasickness might want to take preventative medication before setting sail.
Layered clothing
Allows for adjusting to changing temperatures on the water.
Sunscreen
Protects against UV rays during sunny, exposed sailing.
summer
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare for better visibility and eye comfort.
Motion sickness remedies
Helpful for those who experience seasickness during boat rides.