san francisco bay sailing

Nothing like sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying the beauty that surrounds you. Nothing but sweet...

Sunny day sailing to Tiburon, docking at Restaurant. Makes for a great day.

if you want to test your skill at sailing boats larger than 25 feet, you must spend some time on San Francisco Bay. Start with fall or spring sails when winds are generally a tad calmer than summer and do check tide and current tables before venturing out since the right (or wrong) mix of wind and current (particularly in "the slot" between Berkeley and the Golden Gate Bridge) can make for a real "white knuckles ride," particularly if you head out in an unfixed keel, trailerable sail boat of less than 25-28 feet. For cruisers who want to do a picnic as well, head to Angel Island, which is a state park. If all temporary slips and moorages are taken, head for the lee of Angel Island and bob around but try to avoid setting an anchor, which will either get fouled in the anchor graveyard below or return with a messy crust of the dreaded black mayo that coats the bottom of SF Bay.Soon (2013), there will also be the thrill of the America's Cup for non-sailors who want the vicarious thrill. It is sure to be a great competition, so start making your plans (http://www.americascup.com/en/Discover/San-Francisco/).Lastly, for a real fun summer sailing experience, head up from SF Bay through San Pablo Bay and head for the California Delta with its 1,000 miles of navigable waterways.

I recently sailed San Francisco Bay with Captain Chuck on his 35foot sloop, Quixote.We had a fabulous Day from 10am to 5pm.Tthere were six of us altogether and we left Pt Richmond as the fog was clearing. We sailed to Angel Island where we stopped for lunch. After lunch and a quick trip through the history museum we continued sailing towards SAusalito and past the waterfront where there are many colorful houseboats.Our Captain made sure we were all very comfortable and happy. Chuck let us drive the boat if we wanted to or just sit and watch the action and the sites if we wanted.What a great way to spend the day.