speed boat tour san diego

Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride

A top San Diego attraction! The Patriot Jet Boat is our salute to San Diego’s military heritage — a blend of power and patriotism, the turbo-charged Patriot is adorned with stars and stripes, red, white, and blue hues, and 2,800-horsepower engines. Celebrate your freedom to zoom across the bay at high speeds, past scenic landmarks and under the Coronado Bridge. With music pumping, your captain will perform exhilarating maneuvers, punctuated with precision stops for quick photo ops. Ponchos are provided — you will get wet! But the refreshing ocean spray, adrenaline rush and panoramic views will have you screaming for more!

Your Experience Includes

• 30 Minute Open-Air Jet Boat Tour
• High-Speed Ride with Precision Maneuvers
• Spectacular San Diego Views

Select Your Cruise

Get ready for screams, speed and splashes on a high-speed tour of San Diego Bay. There's nothing like it!

• 11:30 am - 12:00 pm
• 12:30 pm - 1:00 pm
• 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
• 2:30 pm - 3:00 pm
• 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
• 4:30 pm - 5:00 pm
• 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Boarding time 15 minutes prior.

Before you depart

‡ For your safety do not ride if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, heart, neck or back problems, have had recent surgery, are prone to motion sickness or any other medical condition that might be aggravated by the speed and forces of the Patriot.

Cruises may be cancelled in the rare event of unsafe weather conditions. For further information, please visit our FAQ

Groups of 20+ People Ask About Our Special Rates and Services

Patriot Jet Boat Route

No two Patriot trips are the same, but this is not just a random joy ride through the bay. You will be taken past San Diego's most beautiful waterfront sights, including :

U.S.S. Midway Aircraft Carrier, North Island Naval Air Station, Coronado Bridge, Star of India and the iconic ships of the Maritime Museum and the San Diego Skyline .

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THE 5 BEST San Diego Speed Boat Tours

Speed boats tours in san diego.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Gear Rentals
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Seaport Village
• San Diego Speed Boat Adventures
• Maritime Museum of San Diego
• Coronado Bridge
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

2. San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride

3. GoCar & Speedboat Land and Sea Adventure in San Diego

4. Super Saver: Self-Guided Speed Boat Adventure & iRide GPS Guided ScooterTour

5. Whale Watching San Diego: Private Charter Experience

6. 2 Hour Private Luxury Speedboat in Mission Bay

7. Private Luxury 45' Bay Cruiser Tour in San Diego: Suitable for Any Events

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Kayak on the San Diego Bay

Oceanside Private Surf Lesson

Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay

Private Surf Lesson in North San Diego

Surfing Experience and Lessons

Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Surfboard Rental All Day Solana Beach Fletchers Cove

2 Hours Private Surf Lessons in Solana Beach

2-Hour Private Surf Lesson in Carlsbad

2 Hour Private Group Surf Lesson in Encinitas

2 Hour Private Group Surf Lessons in San Clemente

Private Efoil Surfing Activity in Dana Point

What travelers are saying.

• San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure
• San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride
• GoCar & Speedboat Land and Sea Adventure in San Diego
• Half-Day Private 62ft Island Boat Tour of San Diego Bay
• Private Luxury 45' Bay Cruiser Tour in San Diego: Suitable for Any Events
• Adventure Whale Watching
• San Diego Charter Company
• Marina Bay Yacht Charters
• Bay Experiences
• Flagship Cruises & Events

San Diego Speed Boat Adventures

Speed Boat Adventures operates a variety of guided water cruises and land tours throughout the United States and Australia. The San Diego branch of Speed Boat Adventures offers almost a dozen different tours. Some of these are individual tours, some of these are package deals that combine multiple tours into one ticketed experience, but all San Diego Speed Boat Adventures tours are known for being fun and informative ways to learn all about this fantastic coastal city. All San Diego Speed Boat Adventures water tours are conducted via F13 mini speed boats that can hold up to three passengers, while their city tours feature your choice of scooter or GoCar —which are two-person, three-wheeled vehicles specially designed to suit the needs of visitors interested in a uniq ue way of exploring San Diego. If you’ve never been on a speed boat, there’s nothing to fear: -San Diego Speed Boat Adventures fleet of F13s are easy to use even for first timers, and their knowledgeable staff will cover everything you need to know about operating the boat before you set off.

Save on your visit to the San Diego Speed Boat Adventures! San Diego Speed Boat Adventures is included on the Go San Diego Pass . Save an additional 5% on the Go City Pass with Coupon Code: GO5CMANTIS The discount stacks on top the current sale prices! Promo expires on February 29th.

San Diego Speed Boat Tour

This is the single most popular tour available from San Diego Speed Boat Adventures. This 90-minute, professionally guided tour teaches you the basics of speed boating and runs four times every day. Along the way, you’ll traverse some 13 miles of beautiful San Diego Bay as you race past the city’s skyline and landmarks like the Maritime Museum , Coronado Bridge, the USS Midway Museum , and much, much more. Each Speed Boat Adventures vessel can hold three people, which grants you a degree of ticket-purchasing flexibility: a single-person ticket costs approximately $120, a two-person ticket $160, and a three-passenger ride just over $200. Your ticket comes with complimentary bottled water, and a United States Coast Guard-approved life jacket is provided.

GoCar & Speed Boat Combo Tour

Also known as the “Land and Sea Special,” the GoCar & Speed Boat Combo Tour is a distinctive way to experience San Diego from all angles. Clocking in at 4 hours, this package tour includes a guided two-hour speed boat tour across San Diego Bay and a two-hour GoCar excursion through the charming streets of San Diego. What’s more, if you value your sightseeing flexibility, you don’t even have to go on both parts of the combo tour on the same day—you can book the GoCar and speed boat portions of your tour for different days, or whenever best suits your schedule. Each GoCar holds two people, and you must rent the entire vehicle. Every GoCar renter must be at least 21 years old—GoCars are unable to accommodate car seats for small children. A GoCar rental costs about $250, and it’s important to note that a security deposit hold will be placed on your credit card until you safely return the GoCar at the conclusion of your tour.

Guided Scooter & Speed Boat Combo Tour

If a GoCar ride doesn’t sound like it’s your type of thing, how about a scooter? The Guided Scooter & Speed Boat Combo Tour works much like the GoCar & Speed Boat Combo Tour, except that instead of a two-person GoCar, you’ll be buzzing about town on your electric scooter. One of the most appealing aspects of an electric scooter tour of San Diego is that it’s able to take you along streets and get you places that larger trollies and tours buses can’t go. This combo tour leaves four times a day, and typically lasts four to five hours. For one person, a ticket will cost about $180. For a two-person experience, it’s going to be just under $290.

Other Speed Boat Adventures and Services

Besides its most popular tours listed above, San Diego Speed Boat Adventures features a long list of additional tour options.

• If you are seeing other sights while in San Diego you can save some money if by getting a Go San Diego Pass . The San Diego Speed Boat Adventures is included as are many other great San Diego Attractions .

•Standalone GoCar tours—that is, a GoCar rental without speed boat component—come in a number of formats and price points. There’s a two-hour tour that highlights Balboa Park and the Hillcrest neighborhood, there’s a three-hour tour that emphasizes Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, and San Diego’s naval history, and there’s even a full-day GoCar tour that lasts eight hours and covers just about everything San Diego you can think of!

• Likewise, there are individual scooter tours available, too. These include a three-hour tour focusing on lovely, historic Coronado Island, and a two-hour tour that takes you through Balboa Park and downtown San Diego.

• If you’re in the mood for something really unique, you might want to consider San Diego Speed Boat Adventures’ Exotic Driving Experience tour. For individuals who are at least 25 years old, this special outing lets you rent a Vanderhall Venice GTS for a memorable drive into the mountains outside San Diego.

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San Diego Speed Boat Adventures, Inc

2 hour tour driving your own speed boat.

Embark on a 13-mile speed boat ride tour for an unforgettable sightseeing journey through San Diego Harbor with the best views of the bay! Experience a once-in-a-lifetime view of Navy ships, the USS Midway aircraft museum, Coronado Bridge, the famous Star of India, the historic ships of the Maritime Museum, the downtown skyline, photogenic seals and so much more. Your guide is happy to point you in the right direction and show you famous sights along the way.

San Diego Speed Boat Adventure Harbor Tour

After making your way to the Cabrillo Isle Marina in San Diego Harbor, your guide welcomes you to your speedboat adventure. Start off with a safety briefing taught by your professional guide, followed by a lesson on hand signals and boating rules. You’ll navigate and drive your own F13 speed boat for the entirety of the tour, following the lead of your guide who sets the pace in a different boat. Your boat is equipped with two-way communication systems that allow you to hear your guide throughout the tour. If you want to change drivers you may do so at any of the brief stops. Set out on your 13-mile (20-km) spin around San Diego Harbor, which includes several stops for photo ops and a closer look at points of interest throughout the harbor. Enjoy close views, from your vantage point on the water, of US Navy ships and aircraft carriers such as the USS Midway, home to a museum that offers insights into the history of this famous vessel. Zip over to see the famous vessel the Star of India, one of several historic ships berthed at the San Diego Maritime Museum. You'll also pass the Coronado Bridge, Seaport Village, the cruise ship terminal, and have excellent views of the downtown skyline and possibly the sea lions that live in these waters.

Choose from four departure times in the morning and afternoon for your 2-hour tour of San Diego Harbor.

Neighborhood: Point Loma Peninsula

1450 Harbor Island Drive Suite 205 San Diego, CA 92101

Contact Info

(619) 294-5852 [email protected]

Daily: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Explore the San Diego Bay!

Set out on the water as your own captain on a high-adrenaline boat ride in San Diego! Zip along the coastline and take in the stunning views of area attractions like the Maritime Museum, Seaport...

What to Know:

• Tours Daily beginning at 9:00 AM
• No boating experience or license required
• Professionally trained guide leading and narrating the tour
• Group rates

Highlights:

• 2-hour self-drive speed boat tour on San Diego Harbor
• Navigate and captain your own speed boat
• Get close to US Navy ships, the Coronado Bridge, a submarine and more
• Learn from your knowledgeable guide about fun facts about the sights
• See the Sea Lions and other marine life up close.

More Information

• Historic Landmark
• Kid Friendly
• General Admission - Adult
• General Admission - Senior
• Boat Excursions

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Flagship San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise + Speed Boat Tour Combo

Sunday Dinner on the Bay + Speed Boat Tour Combo

San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise + Speed Boat Tour Combo

Step into the exciting San Diego Speed Boat Adventures to explore the scenic San Diego Bay from a unique perspective. Enjoy a fully guided and narrated tour aboard an F13 mini-speedboat on a 13-mile ride along the Big Bay. Visit iconic sights, including the Downtown San Diego skyline, Star of India, Coronado Bridge, navy ships, adorable seals, and more! 1 or more people

Good To Know

• An approximately 2-hour thrilling water adventure on the San Diego Bay aboard a F13 mini-speedboat.
• Departs from Cabrillo Isle Marina-San Diego Harbor. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure to check in and sign a waiver.
• Cruise past Big Bay sights such as the USS Midway, a US Navy submarine, Seaport Village, San Diego Maritime Museum, and more.
• Must be age 18 and up to drive the boat and age five and up to be a passenger.
• Total max weight of passengers per boat is 450 lbs.
• No experience or boating license required.
• Bring a swimsuit(summer) or jacket(winter), towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof bag for gadgets.
• Not recommended for guests who are pregnant, had recent surgery, or with neck or back problems.

Description

San Diego Speed Boat Adventure Tour Reviews

San Diego Speed Boat Adventure Tour is located at Speed Boat Adventures, Inc. • 1450 Harbor Island Drive • San Diego , CA 92101

Nearby Things to Do

• San Diego Dinner Cruise by Hornblower
• San Diego Brunch Cruise by Hornblower
• Maritime Museum of San Diego
• The Best of San Diego: Private Walking Tour including USS Midway
• USS Midway Museum

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• The Sofia Hotel
• Wyndham Garden San Diego Near SeaWorld
• The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
• Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area
• Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter

Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Speed Boat Adventure Tour

Are there weight requirements.

Yes. The total weight of passengers must not exceed 450 lbs per boat. A small child (under 50 lbs) is allowed to sit in the middle.

Are there age requirements?

You must be 18 years or older to drive the speedboat and ages five years and up to be a passenger.

Any health restrictions?

Part of the fun at Speed Boat Adventure Tours is that you'll ride the boat in the open water. Although generally the water is calm, it can get rough at times. Because of this, pregnant guests are not permitted on the boat. The tour is not recommended for guests with neck or back problems or recent surgery.

How fast are the speedboats?

The speedboats can go as fast as 20 to 25 knots.

What if I have never driven a boat?

No problem! Our boats are very simple to operate, and you will receive basic instructions on boat driving before your tour. If you can safely drive a car, you can most likely drive the speedboats.

What should I bring?

Bring a swimsuit in the summer or jacket in the winter, a towel, sunblock, sunglasses, a waterproof bag for your gadgets, and sandals or flip-flops.

Can we switch drivers?

Absolutely! There will be several times during the tour. You can switch drivers halfway through.

Do I need a special license for driving a speedboat?

No, you do not need a special license to drive the speedboats.

Do the tour guides ride on the guests' boat?

No, the tour will ride in another speedboat, which you'll follow while driving your own speedboat. You'll communicate via a radio communication system.

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Speed Boat Tour San Diego, Two Passenger, 2 Hours

For Seperate Boats Book Multiple Participants

What better way to see the beautiful harbor side of San Diego than to cruise in your very own speed boat.

Description

Speedboat Adventure San Diego Bay

What better way to see the beautiful harbor side of San Diego than to cruise in your very own speed boat . You will have 2 full hours to cruise up and down Big Bay covering 13 miles of the top tourist attractions Big Bay has to offer. The tour is narrated by a local professional who will fill you in on some fun facts of the area and will test your boating skills when it is time to go fast.

• Your own F13 mini speed boat
• Full safety briefing
• Professional guide narrating the tour

During your San Diego cruise you will visit the famous Star of India, Coronado Bridge, Navy Ships, Aircraft carriers, Seaport Village, encounter wild Sea Lions all complimented by the downtown skyline from a unique, up close and personal perspective that is a must for any adventure-seeking tourist. Don't forget your camera because there will be some awesome opportunities to take some great shots.

Book your Speedboat Adventure San Diego Today!

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

• Minimum age of 16 to drive with a parent/guardian on board
• Minimum age to board is 5 years old
• Max weight of 450 lbs. per boat
• No experience necessary

What to Bring/Wear

• Wear clothing suitable for the weather on the day

What is Supplied

• F13 mini speed boat
• USCG approved life vest
• Instruction on boating basic and rules of the water
• Professionally trained guide narrating the tour

More Information

• Up to 3 adults can ride in a boat together; a minimum of two passengers required

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Cabrillo Isle Marina (San Diego)

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The 7 Best San Diego Boat Tours

Explore this coastal city's sights with a relaxing boat excursion.

Courtesy of Flagship Cruises & Events

Flagship Cruises & Events takes its visitors out on the water to see San Diego's top attractions.

With its coastal perch and abundance of marine life, San Diego is best explored by boat. Whether you select a high-speed adventure or a relaxed sailboat ride, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city and an experienced guide by your side. After consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News determined that the following are the best San Diego boat tours.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

Flagship Cruises & Events – San Diego Harbor Cruise Full Bay Tour

This two-hour, comprehensive trip takes travelers to see the top sights in San Diego Bay, including the Star of India ship, the  Maritime Museum of San Diego , the Coronado Bridge and more. The ship comes equipped with a full-service bar that sells drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic) and snacks. Tour-takers generally appreciate the guides' narration, which they frequently call both entertaining and informative. However, a few note it was hard to hear the guides at different parts of the ship.

Cruises are available daily with multiple departures in the morning and afternoon. Tickets to ride the triple-decker boats start at $37 for adults and $27.75 for children 4 to 12. If you're short on time, you can opt to take an hourlong cruise of either the north or south section of the bay.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Sail San Diego – Day Sail – 3 hours

Sail San Diego's three-hour Day Sail can be tailored to focus on San Diego Bay or the Pacific Ocean: it's the passengers' choice. Captains double as tour guides, and tourgoers consistently call them capable, knowledgeable and amusing. Sightings of dolphins and other sea creatures are common.

The approximately $100 ticket price covers the tour itself, parking and use of jackets and binoculars. You'll also enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages (including beer and wine). The tours, which start around 1 p.m. daily, typically have no more than six patrons at a time. Sail San Diego also offers a sunset sail and whale watching excursions.

Speed Boat Adventures – Speed Boat Adventure Tour

Speed Boat Adventure Tours permit visitors to take the helm of a speedboat on this guided tour of San Diego Bay. After providing instructions on how to operate the boats, which can accommodate up to three people, travelers take the wheel while guides provide information and observations via a two-way radio. You'll see the downtown skyline, Navy ships, the USS Midway Museum , Seaport Village and Coronado Bridge as well as various marine animals. Tour-takers regularly describe the guides' commentary as both entertaining and informative.

Tours last roughly 90 minutes and cover 13 miles. Prices vary depending on the number of tour participants (up to three people can ride per boat); a couple can expect to pay approximately $180. Speed Boat Adventures also offers a tour combining the boat ride with the use of electric scooters.

Getty Images

Sea lions are visible year-round in San Diego.

Adventure Whale Watching – Whale Watching

Adventure Whale Watching's tours give people the chance to see a variety of different whale types depending on the season. Travelers can generally see gray, blue, fin, Bryde's and humpback whales in spring and summer, while minke, fin and humpback whales are typically spotted around fall and winter. You could see dolphins, sea lions and seals year-round. Captains piloting the rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are also naturalists who provide facts about marine life during the three-hour outings. The captains typically win praise from passengers for their knowledge and professionalism.

Tours occur two or three times daily (depending on the season) with morning, noon and afternoon departures. Tickets cost approximately $100 per person. Tours are limited to six passengers. Children younger than 4 may not partake in a public tour; you will need to book a private tour.

Everyday California – La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour

During these approximately 90-minute journeys, paddlers will explore the La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve, where they can see the area's seven sea caves. Kayakers may also glimpse sharks, whales or sea lions, among other marine wildlife. (The area's inhabitants change with the seasons.) You'll also get to see the beauty of La Jolla Cove . Visitors generally say they enjoy the experience and their helpful guides. Some kayakers were dismayed that the sea caves were inaccessible due to unsafe water conditions.

Tours depart multiple times daily and are limited to 20 kayakers (all of whom must be at least 5 years old). Prices vary depending on the day and time you book, though you can expect to pay between $85 and $130 for a kayak (single or double occupancy). Everyday California also offers tours combining kayaking and snorkeling.

Next Level Sailing – Whale Watching

Travelers agree that the wildlife seen on this tour and the yacht's crew make this trip worthwhile. Next Level Sailing spends about four hours on the water to view the different marine species (think: whales and dolphins) that swim in San Diego's waters.

Tours depart at 11 a.m. Saturday through Thursday and 9 a.m. on Friday; you must check in for your tour 30 minutes prior to departure. Tickets start at $85 for adults and $42.50 per child (Saturday and Sunday trips have a slightly higher fee). Next Level Sailing also charters boats for special occasions.

San Diego SEAL Tours

For 90 minutes, you'll tour San Diego on land and sea. But don't worry, you won't need to swap vessels as San Diego SEAL Tours' Hydra-Terra vehicle is amphibious. As you cruise, guides will tell you all about the area's history and point out the bay's resident seals and sea lions, along with San Diego's top attractions . Travelers greatly appreciate the informative guides who crack jokes throughout the tour (though some jokes are a little corny, per reviewers).

Tickets cost about $45 for adults, $30 for children ages 4 to 12 and $10 for toddlers 3 and younger. Tours depart from Seaport Village several times daily beginning at 10 a.m. You could save some coin by combining this outing with a trolley tour.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in San Diego
• The Best San Diego Hotels
• The Best San Diego Tours
• The Best San Diego Fishing Charters
• The Best Whale Watching in San Diego
• The Best Jet Ski Rentals in San Diego

Tags: San Diego , Tours , Vacations , Travel , U.S. West Vacations , California Vacations , US Vacations

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10 Incredible San Diego Sailing Tours to Get Your Sailing On

S ometimes we just want to ditch the on-land attractions and head out to the ocean for a sailing adventure. Whether you’ve never been on a boat before or you’re a seasoned sailor yourself but couldn’t get your boat down to San Diego and still need your fix of the sea breeze. Thankfully, plenty of companies offer San Diego sailing tours.

Greg and I got into sailing a few years ago. We currently don’t have our sailing certification but love spending time on the water. So until we can safely maneuver our own sailboat, we either head out with one of our friends (Big shout out to Joe! Thank you!!!) or go on a sailing tour.

Here is a list of our most loved San Diego sailing tours to get you in the mood to hit the San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

The Best San Diego Sailing Tours

🥇best rated san diego sailing tour.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book the highest-rated San Diego Sailing Tour with 380+ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star ratings on Viator! Book this tour

Small Group San Diego Sunset Sailing Excursion

This three-hour San Diego sunset sail tour brings lovers of the sea out on a Catalina-style sailboat to watch the last of the sun rays fall behind the ocean. The idea of this excursion is to create an intimate feeling, only allowing six guests on board.

There will be beer, soft drinks, and snacks provided by the captain during the ride. Additionally, warm jackets will be on standby in case the wind off the sea becomes too much.

Pass by San Diego’s private marina Point Loma, the USS Midway Museum, and under Coronado Bridge to the island.

The sailing boat has a modern sound system, so if anyone would like to play their favorite songs for some added ambiance, they’re free to do so.

Before you head off, meet at the Sail San Diego Office on Shelter Island. You need to receive a physical paper ticket to board the ship. It will be given to you upon check in.

Sunset Sailing Experience On San Diego Bay

Sunset is, without a doubt, the best time to take a boat out to sea. Watching the dramatic orange colors explode throughout the sky from a top deck is a blissful experience.

Hop on board a classic sailing yacht and make your way down San Diego Bay, catching glimpses of military ships and some of the city’s key sights from a unique perspective.

Take advantage of the many photo opportunities while watching the California sun slowly fades away. As well as an unforgettable sailing experience, you get some white wine, chocolates, soda, and water with your booking.

This fantastic two-hour tour is popular among those looking to celebrate something, e.g., engagement or proposal. This sunset sail in San Diego is one you won’t be soon to forget.

A maximum of six people can reserve a space on the ship which departs from Harbor Island. It’s recommended that you arrive 20 minutes beforehand, so you have time to find the gate. The company is not able to wait for anyone.

Book here San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

Would you like to see some whales? Head out to sea with an expert guide who will provide interesting knowledge about grey whales, dolphins, and other animals that roam around San Diego.

They’ll bring you to several areas where they have spotted whales in the past. This exciting 4.5-hour whale-watching tour takes you aboard a ship modeling a sailing schooner that won a prize at the world’s first America’s Cup sailing competition in 1851. 

This outstanding whale-watching tour includes drinks and snacks, sightings of whales guaranteed, and a no-sickness promise.

Check-in is at the Next Level Sailing office. It opens an hour before departure and closes 30 minutes before. If you’re looking for a small private tour, this isn’t the one for you. The ship can hold up to 77 passengers.

Book here Small Group Afternoon Sailing Excursion

Board a Catalina-style sailboat for six people and embark on a semi-private sailing tour of San Diego.

Get your binoculars ready because you’ll see an array of sights like the San Diego Convention Center, Seaport Village , the USS Midway , and much more.

The boat’s crew members will take good care of you for the duration of the tour, offering complimentary beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks. If the sun gets too much for you, sunscreen will be on board too. 

Check in for this activity is at the Sail San Diego office. The captain will meet you there and bring you to the ship, where the fun will begin!

San Diego Bay Relaxing Sailing Tour

Step aboard a luxuriously designed Beneteau sailing yacht and cruise around San Diego Bay VIP style. Pop your head inside the spacious cabin kitted out with cushioned seats, soft blankets, pillows, and bean bags to relax on the bow of the boat.

The 2.5 tour starts by taking passengers to catch some gorgeous harbor views of the military ships parked up, including the USS Midway and the Star of India. After, they’ll be taken under the Coronado Bridge to see San Diego Seaport area.

The boat will then venture over the bay to the Naval Air Station and a couple of other notable attractions before making the return to land.

The tour will leave from the Claire Sailing office, only a few minutes from downtown. Beverages are provided by the company, e.g., beer and soda, and passengers can have a shot of driving the boat once given the go-ahead from the captain.

Private Sailing Charter on San Diego Bay

Enjoy a 2.5-hour private sailing charter tour along San Diego Bay.

This is different from other excursions where the company chooses the itinerary. Instead, you decide what you want to see. Whether you want to go whale watching, swimming, or lay an anchor somewhere, the sky is the limit. Additionally, if you’d like the captain to plan your time out carefully, that can be arranged too. See sights like Tijuana , Hotel del Coronado, or Point Loma Lighthouse.

Make sure you arrive outside Clayton’s Galley 10 minutes before departure time. That’s where the captain will meet you beforehand.

Look out for dolphins, sea lions, and whales when you’re out at sea. If it’s the season, you can see them.

Again, this charter sailboat tour of San Diego is private. It will only be your group on the boat with the captain and their team. Snacks and water are included with the tour.

Book here Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charter of San Diego

Take on the San Diego waves on your private catamaran sailing charter that can hold up to 12 passengers.

Set off from the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay for an eight-hour cruise to see exciting attractions like Sunset Cliffs Natural Park , Ocean Beach Pier, La Jolla, and Pacific Beach. Soak up stunning seascapes while trying to spot aquatic animals. The captain can help you out with that one.

The crew on board will be looking after you for the day and will provide five-star, personalized service. This is the perfect tour if you have a big family and want to celebrate fashionably.

Private Luxurious Sailing Cruise in San Diego Bay

This is arguably the fanciest sailing tour you can book in California. It’s a private excursion that tailors to passengers’ needs.

Fancy a sail and swim in Glorietta Bay? Or a romantic cruise along Coronado? Pick where you’d like to see. It’s your three hours. Let the crew do the hard work while you relax, sipping on an ice-cold drink.

The tour is limited to you and 5 other guests. You’ll depart from Harbor Island at 5 pm and have three hours out at sea.

When you see inside this yacht, you won’t want to get off. Its elegant design creates a warm, homey feeling. You’ll forget you’re out on the sea.

The captain and his team are attentive and will look after your group in whatever way they can. To top it all off, alcoholic beverages are included, so grab a beer and watch the sun go down with those you love.

There’s no doubt, this is definitely one of the best sailboat tours in San Diego.

Book here Private Sail Yacht Experience on San Diego Bay

Grab some lovely photographs of San Diego Bay on this two-hour private sailing tour.

Have a 37-foot (11.2 meters) yacht all to yourselves while you kick back with a bottle of champagne, and the captain brings you to see dolphins and other sea creatures along the coast.

The tour is suitable for a maximum of six people and comes with some luxuries such as champagne, white wine, chocolates, and soda. You’re free to bring your own food and drink as well.

Book here Sterling Sails 2-Hour Private Sailing Experience

Did anyone ever tell you that San Diego looks better from the water? See it for yourself on this two hour private sailing experience with your own private yacht and a captain who’s well versed in handling navigation.

Sail all along San Diego Bay, scouting out sea lion hideouts and old military ships like the USS Midway.

The ship can hold six people, making this tour ideal for small families or groups on vacation looking for an ocean escape. Captain Liz will meet your group at the benches beside Marina Cortez 15 minutes before the ship’s sailing time.

San Diego is an amazing place for a sailing tour, with stable winds and a balmy climate; it’s no wonder boating enthusiasts love it here. 

When choosing a sailing tour, you’ll have to ask yourself some questions:

What’s your budget? 

Which attractions would you like to see? 

How much time do you have?

Once you’ve determined this, you’ll be on the boat, ready for your San Diego sailing tour!

Looking for more ideas? Check out these San Diego Whale Watching Tours .

Last Updated on August 2, 2023 by Maria Haase

The post 10 Incredible San Diego Sailing Tours to Get Your Sailing On appeared first on San Diego Explorer .

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