Transform your sailing skills in this private 6-hour workshop in Berkeley, CA. Learn expert docking and boat handling techniques while enjoying the stunning San Francisco Bay.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good health and able to move comfortably on uneven, wet surfaces during the session.
Wildlife
History
Berkeley Marina has a rich maritime history, serving as a hub for local boating and sailing communities since the early 20th century.
Conservation
SailNOW supports sustainable boating practices to protect the San Francisco Bay’s delicate marine ecosystem.
SailNOW
Transform your sailing skills in this private 6-hour workshop in Berkeley, CA. Learn expert docking and boat handling techniques while enjoying the stunning San Francisco Bay.
SailNOW is a Berkeley, California–based sailing school and charter operator that runs hands-on lessons, workshops, and small-group cruises on the San Francisco Bay. The company operates the Excalibur, a 30-foot monohull, and offers a range of single-day experiences that include beginner instruction, advanced handling, and destination sails.
Programs include a five-hour introductory lesson titled Get To Know Sailing: 5 Hours, focused on sail dynamics, knot tying, and basic navigation rules. For sailors seeking more challenge, Heavy Weather Sailing Workshop delivers a four-hour outing that navigates winds over 25 knots on the Bay. Docking and Boat Handling Workshop provides concentrated six-hour training on close-quarters maneuvering. Nighttime Cruising Workshop combines evening navigation practice with a scenic cruise. Semi-Private Cruises and Private Cruises offer half-day excursions with views of Alcatraz and Angel Island aboard the Excalibur. Team Building sails are available as six-hour group experiences on the North Bay, with optional sunset sail timing. Angel Island Cruise is a five-hour destination trip with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and local dining; it is family-friendly with some restrictions.
SailNOW emphasizes practical, on-the-water learning and small group sizes to maximize instruction time and safety. All offerings are delivered from Berkeley and operate on the San Francisco Bay, providing direct exposure to local conditions, landmarks, and navigation challenges. Participation requirements, scheduling details, and safety guidelines are provided at booking. Certified instructors emphasize seamanship fundamentals, practical safety drills, and situational decision-making during every trip to support confident, capable sailors at all experience levels and clear pre-sail briefings.
Launch Site
Berkeley, CA
Gateway to the San Francisco Bay
Vessel
Excalibur 30-ft
30-foot monohull used for trips
Trip Lengths
4–6 hours
Half-day and multi-hour workshops
Tours Offered
9 trips
Lessons, workshops, and cruises
Choose a beginner lesson, workshop, or private cruise from Berkeley and secure a spot today.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the workshop to complete check-in and gear setup.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Choose closed-toe, non-slip footwear to maintain grip on the wet boat deck.
Bring Layered Clothing
Dress in layers to adjust to the cool bay breeze and changing weather throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water to stay hydrated, as physical effort combined with the sun can cause dehydration.
Non-slip Sailing Shoes
Provides grip and safety on wet boat decks.
Windproof Jacket
Keeps you warm against bay winds and cooler fall temperatures.
fall
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Protect your eyes from glare off the water during sunny days.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the physically engaging workshop.