Experience the thrill of a 2-hour regatta sailing charter off Santa Cruz’s coast while enjoying local wine, beer, and pizza. Perfect for adventure-seeking adults ready to race and savor the ocean breeze.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness level recommended; standing and movement on a moving boat required but no prior sailing experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Santa Cruz’s maritime culture dates back to the 1800s with a deep heritage in fishing and coastal trade, now transformed into recreational sailing hubs.
Conservation
The sailing operation follows eco-friendly practices to minimize impact on marine wildlife and promotes Leave No Trace principles along the coast.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters
Experience the thrill of a 2-hour regatta sailing charter off Santa Cruz’s coast while enjoying local wine, beer, and pizza. Perfect for adventure-seeking adults ready to race and savor the ocean breeze.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters is a Santa Cruz–based sailing operator offering short, memorable cruises on Monterey Bay. Operating a top-of-the-line sailboat (including the Chardonnay II for select sails), the company runs themed 1.5- and 2-hour charters that highlight wildlife viewing, coastal scenery, craft beer and wine pairings, and local cuisine.
Trips include family-friendly morning Eco-Adventure sails ideal for whale watching, two-hour coastal charters with complimentary drink tickets, adult-focused Brewmaster and Winemaker sails with local beers and wines, and special culinary charters featuring pizza, Champagne brunch, or pupus from Pono Hawaiian Kitchen. Seasonal programming includes neighborhood BYO evenings and The Taste of Santa Cruz culinary tours.
Safety and guest experience are prioritized: licensed crew, life jackets, clear boarding instructions, and small-group departures ensure comfortable outings. Several charters are 21+ when alcohol is provided; family-friendly options are available for all ages. Bookings accommodate private events and group celebrations with flexible scheduling during peak months.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters is trusted locally for transparent pricing, consistent seasonal schedules (March–October for specialty runs), and curated partnerships with local restaurants and breweries. The operator’s combination of coastal expertise, hospitality, and themed culinary experiences makes these short Monterey Bay sails a reliable choice for visitors and residents seeking a distinctive ocean outing.
Tours Offered
10
Diverse coastal and culinary sails
Duration
1.5–2 hrs
Short, scenic adventures
Family Friendly
Yes
Whale watching and relaxed sails
Seasonal Runs
Mar–Oct
Special charters and neighborhood nights
Reserve a spot on a 1.5–2 hour Santa Cruz charter for whale watching, coastal views, and seasonal culinary experiences.
Arrive Early to Learn Basics
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for a quick safety briefing and basic sailing instructions to maximize your time on the water.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Choose footwear with good grip to stay steady on the boat’s wet surfaces during the race.
Bring a Light Jacket
Coastal winds can be cool even in summer; layering helps keep you comfortable throughout the sail.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and during the trip, especially if enjoying alcoholic beverages onboard.
Windbreaker Jacket
Protects against coastal winds and occasional spray during sailing.
summer
Non-Slip Footwear
Ensures safety when moving around the boat’s wet deck.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water, improving visibility and comfort.
summer
Water Bottle
Maintains hydration throughout the sailing adventure.
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