THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set sail on a half-day adventure with SailNOW and discover San Francisco’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks from the water. Experience personalized service aboard the Excalibur, a sleek sailboat, with breathtaking views and engaging stories.
Set sail on a half-day adventure with SailNOW and discover San Francisco’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks from the water. Experience personalized service aboard the Excalibur, a sleek sailboat, with breathtaking views and engaging stories.
Book with SailNOW
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SailNOW · Berkeley, California
San Francisco, a vibrant city famed for its iconic landmarks and stunning waterfront, offers a unique vantage point for seeing its beauty—on the water. SailNOW’s Private Cruises provide an intimate, half-day sailing adventure aboard the Excalibur, a sleek 30-foot monohull sailboat, perfect for those seeking a scenic escape with a splash of luxury. As you board, the gentle tug of the sails and the brisk ocean breeze set the tone for a remarkable trip. The captain, who’s a seasoned local, navigates past key sites like Alcatraz Island and Angel Island, delivering insider stories and history along the way. These cruises are ideal for small groups, offering personalized service and unobstructed views that larger vessels simply can't provide. The Excalibur’s design offers stability and agility, making it suitable for both seasoned sailors and first-timers. The experience isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the sea’s pulse while soaking in the panoramic cityscape. Whether catching a sunset or enjoying the crisp sea air, this adventure is a quintessential San Francisco experience. SailNOW stands out by combining professional craftsmanship, intimate group settings, and a commitment to responsible boating, ensuring the water remains pristine for future generations. This tour’s flexible scheduling and knowledgeable crew make it a top choice for locals and tourists alike, eager to see San Francisco from a new perspective. Perfectly suited for those who value personalized, memorable outings, SailNOW’s Private Cruises transform the city’s coastline into an open-air gallery, full of history, vistas, and invigorating sea air. The close-up view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the city skyline, and the historic Alcatraz reveal why San Francisco’s waterfront is one of the most captivating in the world. This is more than a cruise—it’s a chance to experience San Francisco’s maritime charm firsthand, in an environment built for comfort, connection, and discovery.
easy.
2-4 hours.
No physical fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities
No experience is needed; the crew manages the boat, and beginners are welcome.
The cruise is designed for small groups, typically up to 6-8 guests for a more personalized experience.
Beverages are available on board, but food is not typically included, so consider bringing snacks.
Cancellations are usually allowed up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.
The sailboat offers basic amenities, including seating and shelter from the elements.
Yes, children aged 5 and above are generally welcome; supervised and in a small group setting.
San Francisco’s maritime history dates back to the Gold Rush, with its bustling port playing a crucial role in trade and immigration.
SailNOW emphasizes eco-friendly sailing practices to minimize environmental impact and protect the bay’s natural beauty.
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.
Book with SailNOW