Take on the challenge of heavy winds and rough waters with SailNOW’s intense sailing workshop on the San Francisco Bay. Experience the rush of navigating through 25+ knot winds while learning essential heavy weather sailing skills.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to move quickly and maintain balance on a dynamic boat deck.
Wildlife
History
Berkeley and the surrounding Bay Area have a rich maritime heritage, with sailing traditions dating back over a century.
Conservation
SailNOW follows strict environmental guidelines to minimize pollution and respects wildlife habitats in the San Francisco Bay.
SailNOW
Take on the challenge of heavy winds and rough waters with SailNOW’s intense sailing workshop on the San Francisco Bay. Experience the rush of navigating through 25+ knot winds while learning essential heavy weather sailing skills.
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.
Dress in Layers
San Francisco Bay conditions can change rapidly; layering keeps you comfortable against wind and chill.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as exertion combined with wind exposure can lead to dehydration.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
A sturdy pair of non-slip sailing shoes will help maintain grip on wet and uneven surfaces aboard the boat.
Listen Carefully to Safety Briefings
Heavy weather sailing demands sharp attentiveness—always follow instructor instructions closely.
Windproof Jacket
Protects against cold and spray while sailing in strong winds.
Non-Slip Sailing Shoes
Provides secure footing on wet surfaces and during quick movements.
Thermal Base Layers
Helps maintain warmth during cooler seasons on the Bay.
fall
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water and protects eyes from UV rays.
summer