Can more than 5 passengers join the cruise?

Up to 5 guests plus a winery representative are allowed. For up to 6 guests, the tasting is self-guided without a representative onboard.

Is the Yacht Kelpie wheelchair accessible?

Due to the vessel’s historic design and dock setup, it is not wheelchair accessible. Assistance can be provided for limited mobility guests who can navigate steps.

Can I bring my dog aboard?

Pets are not permitted to protect the boat’s varnished surfaces and ensure safety.

What should I bring to stay comfortable?

Dress in layers, bring polarized sunglasses, and use non-aerosol reef-safe sunscreen as sprays are not allowed onboard.

Are gratuities expected?

Yes, tipping 15-20% is customary depending on service quality; captains maintain high safety and professional standards.

What happens in bad weather?

If sea or wind conditions are unsafe, the captain will cancel with at least one hour’s notice and offer a refund or credit.

Sail and Sip: The Ultimate Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Cruise Experience

Santa Barbara, California’s sun-soaked coastline offers more than just stunning ocean views—it presents a unique way to savor its famed wine country from an entirely fresh perspective. The Vintner’s Voyage wine tasting cruise aboard the classic Yacht Kelpie seamlessly blends maritime adventure with the region’s celebrated viticulture, delivering a sensory journey along the pristine Santa Barbara and Montecito coastlines. Operated by SunSwept Sailing, this intimate experience invites travelers to relax on the water while sampling hand-selected wines from some of the area’s most esteemed wineries, all guided by winery or brewery representatives who share the deep stories behind each pour.

The Yacht Kelpie is a beautifully maintained vessel that accommodates only five or six guests, creating a cozy and exclusive setting far from the crowds. This allows for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere on the sparkling Pacific waters. With each voyage—you can opt for a 90-minute morning, lunchtime, or a two-hour twilight cruise—the gentle sea breeze and warming sun set the perfect stage for savoring Santa Barbara’s signature varietals. Wine partners such as Le Pecheur Wines, Rooted Vine Cellars, and Deep Sea Wines bring a selection of their finest bottles aboard, while beer enthusiasts can choose a craft flight from the renowned Topa Topa Brewery.

The cruise experience doesn’t just stop at wine. Every trip includes a lavish picnic platter featuring a savory assortment of fine cheeses, house-made crostini, dried fruits, and nuts—plus optional charcuterie additions—to perfectly complement your tasting. Warm blankets, bottled water, and a swag bag enhance the comfort and enjoyment of every guest, given the typically 10-degree cooler marine air compared to shore. This thoughtful attention to guest experience elevates the outing into more than a tasting; it’s a true celebration of place—sea and vine combined.

Santa Barbara’s coastal geography adds a unique dimension to the adventure. Sailing along a stretch marked by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, you might catch glimpses of local marine life or the changing hues of sunset melting over the Channel Islands. The region’s wine reputation dates back over a century, with official AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) established here to protect the unique microclimates influenced by the Pacific. This cruise allows visitors to engage directly with that heritage while enjoying unparalleled ocean views.

While the yacht is not wheelchair accessible due to historic vessel design and dock constraints, the crew offers assistance to those with limited mobility who can manage steps. The experience is strictly 21+ and designed to respect safety regulations, including passenger weight limits, ensuring a secure, upscale outing. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile, a casual sipper, or simply someone who relishes combining water and wine, Vintner’s Voyage presents a standout way to explore Santa Barbara Wine Country. It’s an active yet indulgent escape that feels exclusive but welcoming—an essential for anyone wanting to savor the essence of California coast from deck to glass.

About SunSwept Sailing

SunSwept Sailing operates intimate, private cruises aboard the classic yacht Kelpie out of Santa Barbara, California. The company curates a range of experiences including Sound Bath Sail, Memorial At Sea services, Coastal Adventure, Santa Barbara Sunset Sail, Santa Barbara Harbor and Waterfront Tour, Custom Private Charters, Marriage Proposal Sails, Whale Watching, and the Vintner's Voyage wine-tasting cruise. Each cruise emphasizes small-group intimacy, coastal scenery, and wildlife viewing along the American Riviera.

The Sound Bath Sail is led by a certified Sound Practitioner and features hand bells, chimes, and singing bowls during a restorative 75-minute wellness cruise. Memorial At Sea services provide serene ash scattering with personalized touches and a framed Memorial Certificate. Whale Watching trips highlight Santa Barbara’s role in migration season when more than 25,000 Gray whales pass the coast, offering strong opportunities to see mothers and calves in spring. The Vintner’s Voyage combines coastal sailing with curated tastings of Santa Barbara wines and local brews, complemented by gourmet picnic platters.

Custom Private Charters and Proposal Sails allow tailored itineraries, private departures, elegant decor, and gourmet appetizers to create memorable occasions. With Santa Barbara’s more than 300 sunny days a year and the region’s striking Santa Ynez mountain backdrop, SunSwept Sailing delivers scenic, year-round sailing experiences designed for relaxation, celebration, and meaningful connection on the water. Guests can book individual seats, intimate private charters, or fully customized itineraries for anniversaries, corporate events, small weddings, educational outings, and personal retreats tailored to each group's preferences, and seasonal special events annually.

Sail and Sip: The Ultimate Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Cruise Experience

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