Do I need previous sailing experience?

No prior experience is required. This course is designed for beginners and guides you through all the fundamentals.

What should I wear for the sailing lesson?

Wear comfortable layered clothing and non-slip shoes suitable for wet decks. A windbreaker and sun protection are recommended depending on the season.

Is the trip suitable for children or seniors?

The experience is generally suitable for teenagers and adults with average fitness. Please contact SailNOW directly to discuss any specific needs.

Can I bring a camera or phone onboard?

Yes, you’re encouraged to bring a camera or phone but ensure devices are secured and protected from water.

Are meals or refreshments provided?

Participants should bring their own snacks and water. There are no meals included in the 5-hour tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?

SailNOW monitors weather closely and will reschedule or cancel trips if conditions are unsafe for sailing.

Get to Know Sailing: 5 Hours in Berkeley, CA

Discover the excitement of sailing with SailNOW’s "Get To Know Sailing: 5 Hours" experience in Berkeley, California. This private boat tour offers a hands-on sailing lesson designed especially for beginners, combining education with adventure on the beautiful San Francisco Bay. Over the course of five immersive hours, you'll learn essential sailing skills including sail dynamics, knot tying, and understanding navigation rules under the guidance of expert instructors. The calm waters near Berkeley provide the perfect setting to gain confidence while enjoying stunning views of the Bay Area, iconic bridges, and city skylines. Whether you’re curious about sailing or eager to improve your boating skills, this intimate experience allows you to engage fully with the boat and your instructors in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Along the way, you'll also soak in the fresh bay breeze, spot local wildlife, and feel the unique thrill that comes from commanding your own vessel. The combination of practical lessons with real-time sailing ensures each participant leaves equipped and inspired for future adventures on the water. This trip offers an excellent balance between learning and leisure, making it perfect for those new to sailing or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of maritime skills.

About SailNOW

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.