Cruise the Santa Monica coastline aboard the Rusty Nail, a private 26ft Beneteau Flyer 8. Perfect for groups, explore marine views, swim stops, and even Catalina Island adventures.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness; ability to move safely on a moving boat is important.
Wildlife
History
Marina del Rey is one of the world’s largest man-made small boat harbors, developed in the 1960s to support recreational boating.
Conservation
Naos Yachts promotes eco-friendly sailing practices, including minimizing waste and using reef-safe products to protect coastal ecosystems.
Naos Yachts
Cruise the Santa Monica coastline aboard the Rusty Nail, a private 26ft Beneteau Flyer 8. Perfect for groups, explore marine views, swim stops, and even Catalina Island adventures.
Naos Yachts is a Marina del Rey-based charter and sailing school offering a range of day sails, sunset cruises, powerboating courses, and ASA certification classes.
The company operates a mixed fleet that includes monohulls, catamarans, Beneteau models, Lagoon catamarans, and specialized boats like the Beneteau First 14 for single- or two-person sailing experiences. Trips available include three-hour daysails and sunset sails, extended day sails, instructor-led ASA courses such as ASA 104/114 combo to Catalina, coastal navigation (ASA 105), docking and maneuvering (ASA 118), dinghy handling (ASA 116), plus beginning and advanced powerboating (AB101/AB103).
All instruction is delivered by US Coast Guard licensed instructors or USCG-trained captains, and courses emphasize hands-on learning, safety, and small-group attention — advanced and beginning powerboating classes limit enrollment to three students per session. Vessel types and on-water routes focus on Santa Monica Bay and Marina del Rey harbor, providing scenic coastal sailing and practical seamanship training.
Naos Yachts serves private charters and public classes for families, friends, and aspiring boaters seeking certification or skill-building. Booking options include hiring a trained USCG captain for relaxed cruises or self-skippered outings for experienced sailors. Equipment and vessels used in courses are modern and purpose-suited for their curriculum, from dinghy towing and beach landings to coastal navigation and overnight passage training. The business combines a large local fleet, certified instructors, and structured ASA curriculum to deliver reliable experiences on Southern California waters. Reservation and scheduling are available through Marina del Rey booking channels and online reservation platforms nationwide inquiries.
Fleet Size
Largest in LA
Variety of monohulls & catamarans
Certified Instructors
USCG Licensed
Training by US Coast Guard instructors
Location
Marina del Rey
Sails on Santa Monica Bay
Courses Offered
10 tours & classes
Includes ASA & powerboating courses
Reserve a three-hour day sail, ASA course, or private charter in Marina del Rey — certified instructors and modern vessels ready.
Bring Water Shoes
Water shoes provide grip and comfort when boarding or swimming near rocky shorelines.
Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the ocean environment with reef-safe sunscreen during sunny days on the water.
Stay Hydrated
Carry at least 1 liter of water per person to stay hydrated throughout your sailing trip.
Motion Sickness Preparedness
If prone to seasickness, take preventative medication before setting sail for a comfortable trip.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for better visibility and eye protection.
summer
Light Windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable against cool coastal breezes during early spring sails.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key during any time spent on the water.
Non-Slip Boat Shoes
Protects feet and provides secure footing on wet boat surfaces.