Do I need sailing experience?

Yes—equivalent sailing experience is required. New skippers must complete a sailing resume at least 48 hours before check-in.

What ID and payment are required?

Photo ID for all drivers and the credit card used to reserve are required at check-in.

What is the cancellation policy?

Any changes or cancellations must be made at least 72 hours prior to your reservation start date for a full refund.

Can I anchor and swim or snorkel?

Anchoring for lunch and short swims is common if conditions and local regulations allow; bring snorkeling gear if you plan to stop near kelp beds or calmer coves.

Are life jackets provided?

Life jackets are typically provided, but bringing a personal preferred PFD is recommended for comfort and fit.

Dufour 39 Bareboat Rental: Day Sail from Downtown San Diego | Boat Rental | Sailing

Q: Where do I check in?

Check-in and boarding are at 333 West Harbor Drive Gate 1 Marriott Hotel and Marina, San Diego CA 92101 as listed in your reservation.

Board the Dufour 39 for an eight-hour bareboat escape from San Diego Bay. Launched from 333 W Harbor Dr, the Dufour 39 is a 41-foot cruiser that blends responsive sailing with roomy, modern comfort. The boat offers bright interiors, generous headroom, a functional galley, and two well-laid-out cabins—enough space for couples or small groups to sail comfortably for a day or a weekend. On deck, wide side decks and a secure cockpit let you move with confidence while trimming sails or leaning into a reach past the downtown skyline. Set a course through the shelter of San Diego Harbor toward classic local landmarks: the Coronado shoreline, the lighthouse at Point Loma, and the long sweep of the city waterfront. Salt-washed air, wind on the beam, and the city receding behind you make for an immediate reset; the Dufour's easily handled sail plan delivers lively performance without demanding expert crew. That said, equivalent sailing experience is required and new skippers must complete a sailing resume at least 48 hours before check-in, so plan ahead. Practicalities live up to the promise: check-in is at 333 West Harbor Drive Gate 1 Marriott Hotel and Marina, San Diego CA 92101, and you’ll need photo ID for all drivers plus the credit card used to reserve. The boat's stability and responsive helm make coastal cruising and short passages straightforward, but bring a basic weather sense and watch for afternoon sea breezes that can build in the bay. This rental stakes a sweet spot between charter comfort and hands-on sailing. It's ideal for family outings, couples wanting an intimate day on the water, or experienced sailors who value a forgiving, performance-oriented hull. The bright saloon invites post-sail lounging, and the galley handles picnic-style meals with ease. Wildlife is part of the show—look for dolphins riding the bow and pelicans working the kelp lines—and the city skyline provides a dramatic backdrop at sunrise and sunset. Booking an eight-hour slot gives time for a coastal loop and anchored lunch near a quiet cove; longer plans can extend toward La Jolla for snorkeling if conditions allow. Respect local rules and harbor traffic, file your resume early, and leave no trace: pack out trash and use heads sparingly. For a San Diego day on the water that balances comfort, capable performance, and real sailing, the Dufour 39 at the downtown marina is an accessible, rewarding choice. Expect a short safety briefing before departure covering radio procedures, harbor restrictions, and man-overboard drills; crew should know basic sail trim and line handling. Bring layered clothing, reefing plans for stronger winds, and a reusable water bottle. Cancellation requires 72 hours' notice for a full refund—confirm schedules and weather a day in advance beforehand.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 hours (typical options).

Fitness level

Moderate fitness: able to move on deck, handle lines, and stand for sail maneuvers.

Wildlife

Common dolphins
Brown pelicans

History

San Diego Bay has served as a working harbor and naval anchor since the 18th century and remains central to the region's maritime culture.

Conservation

Avoid anchoring on eelgrass beds, pack out all trash, and use marina pump-out stations for sewage to protect marine habitats.

Seaforth Boat Rentals is a San Diego-based watercraft rental company offering kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rafts, and specialty boats across Mission Bay, Coronado, Downtown and Harbor Island. The fleet includes single and tandem kayaks, Lily Pad rafts, the eye-catching Pretty Pink Duffy and Pretty Pink Boat, a Limo Boat for downtown excursions, and guided Sunset Sail departures requiring a local USCG licensed captain. Trips and rentals suit families, couples, solo paddlers, and small groups with one- and two-hour options for kayak and paddleboard rentals. Guided options such as the Blue Bridge Kayak Tour and Coronado bridge excursions provide local insight and safe navigation beneath iconic landmarks. Life jackets are provided for every rental to ensure safety. Seaforth Boat Rentals emphasizes accessible, no-fuss experiences: easy online booking, flexible launch locations, and equipment briefings for beginners. Boats may be rented with or without a licensed captain depending on the vessel and experience level. The Pretty Pink Boat and other captain-required charters offer optional captains for guests who prefer a hands-off outing. Customer comfort and safety are priorities; staff provide orientation, route suggestions, and emergency procedures before every departure. Seaforth Boat Rentals works to create memorable, picture-ready outings on San Diego waters, from serene Mission Bay paddles to vibrant Harbor Island sunsets, appealing to visitors and locals seeking a reliable, fun day on the water. Flexible durations, friendly orientation, and shore-side parking options make planning simple, while experienced staff recommend routes tailored to weather, tides, and group ability levels.

Base locationSan Diego, California

Tours offered192+

Specialtyboat-charters

StewardshipLeave No Trace