free sailboats san diego

Adaptive sailing at its finest! Every Friday and Saturday on San Diego Harbor. All sailing is free, no experience necessary. We have special boats that make sailing fun and enjoyable for people with a wide range of disabilities.

Winner of the US Sailing 2022 Robie Pierce Award for excellence in Adaptive Sailing.

Apply here to start your journey!

Abandoned Vessels on State Waterways

California has the fourth largest boating population in the nation, with 626,642 registered recreational vessels in 2023. While responsible owners dispose of vessels lawfully, others abandon them on state waterways where they impede navigation, interfere with boating traffic, and cause environmental harm.

Our abandoned vessel removal program began when SB 595 (Wolk, Chapter 595, Statutes of 2011) was enacted. This law established an administrative removal and disposal process for abandoned and trespassing vessels on waterways under the Commission’s jurisdiction. The law authorizes the Commission to immediately remove a vessel without notice if it hinders navigation, is a threat to vessel operators, an environmental hazard, or a public nuisance. Although the authority created in SB 595 is exclusive to the Commission, local jurisdictions have the authority to remove abandoned vessels and frequently do so. Another abandoned vessel law was enacted in 2015 when   AB 1323 was signed into law. AB 1323 authorizes a public agency to remove and dispose of marine debris after 10 days if the debris is floating, sunk, partially sunk, or beached in or on a public waterway, public beach, or on state tide or submerged lands.

The Commission focuses its efforts on commercial vessels because no other state agency has both the authority and funds to do so. Recreational vessels are typically smaller and less expensive to remove, and funding may be available to remove them through the Division of Boating and Waterways Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange ( SAVE ) grant program.

Staff Reports

• Abandoned Commercial Vessel Removal Plan consideration
• Delegation of Authority
• Kapiloff Land Bank Fund expenditure authorizations
• Legislation
• Vessel Removals

Examples of recently removed abandoned vessels

Eckley Pier Piling Removal Project

Dec 12, 2023

The Eckley Pier Removal Project in the Carquinez Strait near the town of Crockett is complete! On October 30, 2023, Commission staff and CS Marine began the removal process of derelict pilings from the Carquinez Strait. Demolition was completed on November 11, 2023,...

Removal and disposal of abandoned and derelict vessels in the Carquinez Strait

Nov 1, 2022

The Commission and its contractor removed and disposed of all abandoned and derelict vessels in the Carquinez Strait in the town of Crockett. The Commission removed five vessels: a 45-foot CalBay workboat, a 60-foot landing craft, a pontoon boat, and two large steel...

Removal and disposal of tugboat, Standard No. 2, from Sevenmile Slough

Sep 28, 2022

In September, the Commission removed another abandoned vessel from a state waterway, the Tugboat Standard No. 2. The removal follows official Commission authorization last year (Staff Report 31) for staff to take title to, remove, and dispose of the tugboat Standard...

Removal and disposal of ASR-85, All American, from the Sacramento River

Aug 3, 2022

On August 3, the Commission’s contractor demolished a derelict vessel called the All American. The All American was a former military Air-Sea Rescue (ASR or “crash boat”) 85-foot vessel that had been privately owned for many years. A homeowner brought the All...

Valiant safely removed from the water at Mare Island

Jan 19, 2022

On January 12, the VALIANT, a 107 ton abandoned WWII-era steel tugboat, broke free from its mooring in Sevenmile Slough, Sacramento County, and drifted into the San Joaquin River navigation channel. The Commission, Sacramento and San Joaquin County Sheriff’s offices,...

Gretchen E.

The Gretchen E., docked.

In 2018, the Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard removed the derelict 55-foot, steel-hulled, landing craft–style Gretchen E. at Crockett Marina in Contra Costa County. The removal was precipitated by the U.S. Coast Guard responding to reported oil sheens and discovering oil bubbles coming from the Gretchen E. Commission staff worked with the U.S. Coast Guard to remove and demolish the Gretchen E. The initial plan, lifting the vessel out of the water by crane barge, was discarded because the Marina was too narrow for a barge to enter. instead, we refloated the boat, using a small boat to tow it out of the marina and then using two tugs—one on either side—to tow it across the Strait to Mare Island. This approach worked. We towed the Gretchen E to Mare Island and lifted it out of the water. We removed hazardous material and sent the vessel to a scrapper for demolition.

Spirit of Sacramento

The abandoned and sinking vessel, Spirit of Sacramento

The old  Spirit of Sacramento  was built in 1942 by the Berkeley Steel Construction Co. as a snag boat for the Army Corp. of Engineers and named the  Putah . It was last documented by the Coast Guard in 2000 as the  Grand Romance  at 82 ft. in length; 32.5 ft. in breath; drawing 3.9 ft. at a gross tonnage of 97 tons.

Previously named the  Chici San  it was used in the 1954 movie “Blood Alley” starring John Wayne. It was acquired by Star Excursions Inc. in 1991 for a show boat in Old Sacramento. In 1996 it burned to the waterline and was sold and rebuilt then moved it the location in the photographs on the Sacramento River. There it periodically was swamped and sunk until it was raised and removed by court order as the result of a lawsuit by the Commission.

The San Diego, an abandoned vessel.

With her sister ship the Coronado, the  San Diego,  built by the Moore Drydock Company in 1931 in Oakland, at 191 ft. in length and 43 ft. wide, provided car and passenger transportation between the City of San Diego and Coronado Island before the bridge was built in 1969. Then purchased by the Olympic Navigation Company she served the route between Port Townsend and Whidbey Island in Washington.  The  San Diego  moved to Vancouver, British Columbia when its owners ceased operation in 1974 and remained for 20 years as the Klondike Queen,  waiting to be rebuilt as a paddlewheel excursion boat.

Brought back to California in 1994, she became the failed venture of the City of Antioch to turn her into a floating restaurant called Huckleberries. Sold to a Sacramento Corporation which operated riverboats, she partially burned and was eventually traded to an individual for Delta land. Then the  San Diego  was moored in the Sacramento River at the lower tip of Decker Island.

A phone inquiry from the Solano County Sheriff’s marine patrol questioned her right to be moored at that location, side tied to the  Faithful , a 293 ft. former cruiser/hospital ship. A threat of legal action resulted in the removal of the Faithful, but a lawsuit and years of negotiation was required to finally remove and demolish the San Diego. Various parts of her structure have been retained and are on display at the San Diego Maritime Museum.

Oakland / Alameda Estuary Cleanup

The cleanup efforts in the Oakland/Alameda estuary.

Officers with the Oakland police department first noted what a cleanup could accomplish when First Lady Michelle Obama visited the Estuary to christen a ship. On patrol of the Estuary, the large number of abandoned and derelict boats that littered the waters and shores were observed on a daily basis. The police department contacted the California Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery (CalRecycle) and requested the Commission exercise its authority under Public Resources Code Section 6302.1 to remove the vessels. With funding from CalRecycle and a matching grant from the Trust created from the penalties of the Cosco Busan oil spill, the effort started.

An initial survey in 2012 recorded the location of each boat, which was logged and photographed. Once funding was confirmed in 2013, a task force of Oakland and Alameda police, accompanied by other police agencies, the Coast Guard, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, posted a 30-day notice of trespass on each boat. Boats remaining after the 30-day notice expired were towed and impounded. The few seaworthy vessels were eligible for release, but the majority were un-seaworthy and demolished. Altogether, trespass notices were posted on 38 boats, 18 boats left voluntarily, five moved within the Estuary and were later located and demolished, two left the Estuary but were later found derelict in other areas and recovered and demolished. A total of 58 abandoned or derelict boats were removed and demolished along with pilings, docks, and other shore debris.

Courtland Pontoon Boat

The abandoned and sinking vessel, the Courtland Pontoon Boat.

This pontoon boat was free floating down the Sacramento River near the town of Courtland. Commission staff procured the services of a Sacramento auto wrecking company and managed to pull the boat up the river bank and onto highway 160. After it emerged from the river it was discovered that its pontoons were flooded, which added about ten thousand pounds to the effort. Once they were drained, it was hauled off to the wrecking company’s yard.

Sunken and abandoned ships can cause a lot of potential damage to the environment and the economy. Credit: NOAA Office of Response & Restoration. Larger view available .

Public Land Manager Vicki Caldwell 916.574.1894 [email protected]

Media Inquiries Sheri Pemberton 916.574.1992 [email protected]

Abandoned Commercial Vessel Removal Plan

AB 2441 (Frazier, 2019) requires the Commission to develop a plan to remove abandoned and derelict commercial vessels in the Sacramento San Joaquin Delta.

Best Management Practices for Marine Debris Removal

The Commission’s best management practices are advisory and guide local entities responsible for marine debris removal. The Commission adopted these best management practices in 2016, following the enactment of AB 1323  (Frazier), which required the Commission to adopt best management practices for marine debris removal after consulting with interested state and local entities.

FreeSailboats.net

Connecting free sailboats with new owners

• Practical Boat Owner: What to consider when restoring a boat write-off September 12, 2023 Click here to read the article! Here’s a good article about things to consider if you’re looking to take on a boat project that was written off by the insurance company- these are often free, or parted out, but if you’re thinking about this, give this a read!
• Terminal Trawlers- what are they? June 26, 2023 Plenty of free boats we come across are the result of big dreams and ideas that didn’t quite work out for the previous owner- lack of time, money, skill, who knows what, tend to lead to a strong start to a project that fizzles out. We recently posted a free 1969 Sailstar/Bristol Voyager that the…
• Good Old Boat: The Prospect and Reality of a “Free Boat” March 25, 2023 A free boat is never really free, and this Good Old Boat article is a great read for anyone going through the decision process of do you/ don’t you take on that free boat project you have your eye on. Good Old Boat magazine is always a good read, with a target audience of less…

• Storm damaged boats December 13, 2022 Looking at a boat damaged in Ian? There are a lot of them out there, and a lot of them are going to be free. As we say pretty often here, no free boat is actually free, and you need to be prepared for that when taking on a freebie. There have been some good…

• Weekly Newsletter

California's Boating & Fishing News

Glorietta Bay in Coronado is one of the largest areas for anchorages in San Diego Bay. There are also anchorages at La Playa Cove and near Harbor Island. Boaters often visit anchorages while en route to destinations north or south of San Diego. Parimal M. Rohit photo

From harbor to shining harbor: The freedom of anchorages

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — What does a public anchorage have in common with the Wild West? Nothing, at first blush, as anchorages are in the water and populated by recreational boats and yachts while the Wild West is generally associated with small desert towns where cowboys engage in duels. Public anchorages, however, mimics the Old West lifestyle when it comes to freedom of movement and the romanticism of roaming from place to place.

Public anchorages give boaters the ability to visit local harbors while roaming the high seas. Perhaps a boater is cruising from Seattle to San Diego and wants to make port in Santa Barbara for a few days. Conversely a family in Redondo Beach hops on their boat in King Harbor one morning and decides to spend some time in Dana Point. Free anchorages at these destinations and others allow boaters to make port at a harbor for a brief stop before moving on to other adventures.

Where in Southern California do anchorages still exist? Are public anchorages still in demand?

Where can you find an anchorage?

A pair of 72-hour anchorages and a Cruisers Anchorage is available at the Port of San Diego. Use of the anchorages are free but visiting boaters must obtain a permit at least 24 hours in advance and up to one year ahead of the planned visit.

Reservations for the anchorages at La Playa Cove and Glorietta Bay are accepted online at reservations.portofsandiego.org/boating .

Visiting boaters must obtain a permit for the Cruisers Anchorage, which is located at the eastern tip of Harbor Island and adjacent to the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station, in person at 1401 Shelter Island Drive.

Specific rules and regulations of each anchorage can be found at bit.ly/1RGiVKT . Dana Point

The harbor’s East and West basins both have a public anchorage available for visiting boaters.

One anchorage, located by the fuel dock, is charted and sparingly used. The other anchorage is located near the Ocean Institute and uncharted but frequently used. Both are free of charge.

Dana Point Harbor Director Brad Gross said there are always boats at the uncharted anchorage, especially during peak boating season. The local Harbor Patrol monitors the anchorage and often greets visiting boats.

Some anchorage users are locals while others are transients visiting Dana Point Harbor en route to San Diego. Transients often stop at the anchorage to load up on provisions before continuing south.

Newport Beach

A full-time public anchorage exists just east of Lido Isle. Newport Beach has already experimented with a second anchorage on the western side of Lido Isle and is contemplating bringing it back for another test run this summer.

“I think it’s essential to the harbor. People seem to enjoy it,” said Newport Beach Harbor Commissioner Joe Stapleton, adding the planned Lido Marina Village and Central Avenue Dock will be a great asset for anchorage users. “The east end of Lido is getting tremendous amount of use.”

Fellow commissioner Brad Avery echoed similar sentiments, likening anchorage use to camping but on the water.

“The appeal is you can show up without a reservation and anchor at no cost,” Avery said. “It’s a neat concept. It started off as a place for people to take shelter.”

Avery said the anchorage in Newport Beach is used regularly by a gamut of boaters.

“The existing anchorage almost always has a few boats in it, and in the summers it is packed on weekends,” he said in an email. “There is no demographic, you have the full range of locals and visitors, small and large boats, power and sail. Often there are groups from yacht clubs that raft up together.”

Being detached from land is an anchorage’s greatest appeal, Avery said.

“For many boaters, being anchored is to be free from the land, from fees, and have open water all around you,” he said. “It’s a totally different experience, of being disconnected, even in Newport Beach!”

Huntington Harbour

Sunset Marina Park, home to a 276-slip marina, features a temporary anchorage.

Santa Barbara

The city of Santa Barbara hosts a free summer anchorage just east of Stearns Wharf.

“Boats must stay 300 feet east of the Wharf,” said Santa Barbara Harbor Operations Manager Mick Kronman. “Beginning November 1, they must move farther east, to about a mile from the Wharf, to protect it from southeasterly winter storms — they can actually anchor there anytime (we call it the ‘year-round’ anchorage), but during the summer, most prefer to be closer to the harbor.

“Anchoring out is free,” Kronman continued.

Anchorage users in Santa Barbara sometimes have to relocate to inside the harbor due to small craft advisories or poor weather conditions, according to Kronman. The relocation is not free, however.

“When Small Craft Warnings (or worse) are posted, we allow anchor-outs into the harbor, because we’re a legislatively designated Harbor of Safe Refuge,” Kronman said. “When they’re in the harbor, however, they need to pay transient slip fees like any other visitor.”

Marina del Rey

The U.S. Coast Guard retired an anchorage in Marina del Rey last year. The closure means Marina del Rey no longer has a public anchorage within the harbor. One boater said he is unsure whether a new place for boats to park on the open water will return in the near future. The anchorage was at the north end of the main channel in Marina del Rey, according to boater Jon Nahhas.

“There is no anchorage inside Marina del Rey Harbor and the outside anchorage, 1,000 feet from the south entrance to the jetty, doesn’t provide ‘Safe Harbor,’” Nahhas said. “We’ve contacted the Coast Guard, NOAA, and the Coastal Commission about what we consider to be an unlawful county code moving boaters into harm’s way without shelter. The county’s response to our concerns is that visiting boaters can rent the guest slips at Burton Chace Park (I think they are at $1.50 a foot now) and that if the Coast Guard issues a small craft warning (high winds) they will aide boaters in getting from the illegal outside anchorage to the slips they are renting at Burton Chace Park.”

Anchorages are a resource & a liability 

Carter Ford, a boater who lives in Newport Beach, said anchorages are an important resource for boaters.

“Anchorages are one of the resources that harbors offer. They provide safe haven from the at times stormy ocean; very important for mariners’ safety,” Ford told The Log in an email. “They are more economical than marinas, which makes boating, especially long-term, more affordable.”

Ford echoed Avery’s comments about anchorages providing boaters with open space on the water.

“Boats staying in [anchorages] are more spread out than in marinas, and have appeal for aesthetic and environmental reasons, to locals as well as visitors,” Ford said. “I’ve chosen to spend some nights in both Newport anchorages just for the joy of overnight escapes.”

However, anchorages, depending upon whom you ask, could be a liability.

A handful of Newport Beach residents who have waterfront homes near a proposed public anchorage have complained of such infrastructure limiting their views of the harbor.

In 2008 the Port of San Diego shut down A-8 Anchorage near National City, which was free and open to boaters for long-term use. The unlimited, free anchorage was reportedly home to several derelict vessels and too costly to maintain. Harbor Patrol reportedly complained of a steady dose of criminal activities occurring in the area.

There are also questions of whether a boater might move from anchorage to anchorage to avoid paying slip fees.

Ford said shifting to different anchorages to avoid slip fees is not practical.

“Boaters aren’t ‘abusing the system’ to avoid paying slip fees by moving around. Slips are often unavailable as well as costly. There’s significant time and effort involved in relocating a boat from one anchorage to another (often to a distant harbor),” Ford said.

Kronman echoed similar thoughts, saying, “There is really no system to abuse” of Santa Barbara Harbor’s anchorage.

Waterfront residents and anchorage-using boaters can co-exist, according to Ford, so long as the proper education and enforcement measures are in place.

“Anchorages are not of themselves a nuisance,” Ford said. “If shore side residents are offended by looking at boats in the harbor they should have bought on a golf course. These are public waters.

“Yes, harbor users of all types need to be good neighbors, including not being noisy,” Ford continued. “The bay-boat late night cruisers are far and away the worst offenders, they are having a good time and either forget or maybe don’t care that noise carries dramatically across the water.”

Spreading the word

Newport Beach is contemplating a second public anchorage west of Lido Island. The anchorage could become a permanent fixture if enough boaters use the venue.

Ultimately anchorage use comes down to informing boaters where such boat parking lots exist, placing them nearby local (and accessible) amenities, and keeping regulations reasonable.

“The way local officials can make them used more is by publicizing them, and providing amenities such as shore access,” Ford said. “Also allowing limited side tie-ups, up to three boats say, can be appealing. This uses space much better and should be allowed. (This is now considered technically a raft-up, which is too restrictive.)”

• ← Redondo Beach mulls boat launch ramp location
• Team Alvimedica shares race experiences with Newport Beach sailors →

8 thoughts on “ From harbor to shining harbor: The freedom of anchorages ”

Cool and the very last speck of freedom anywhere, even here in our great nation built upon personal FREEdom, (such as it is with regulations, limited stays and billions of other laws / restrictions etc)…

Also available for free anchorage are the many coves on our nearby channel islands. A mainland anchorage not mentioned is Paradise Cove just east of Point Dume.

How is using an anchorage to avoid slip fees bad? Slips are conveniently located to land, and parking, for people that need it. We shouldn’t have to pay for an anchorage. Filing a permit with the harbor master, providing proof of insurance, and registration, should be enough.

In 1996 Filthy Phil Mcnair at Glorietta Free Anchorage was THE last resistance to the freedom-despising bureaucrats, and other DESPICABLE UBER-CONTROL FREAK VERMIN… The folks out at that Coronado Island anchorage had finally lost their futile legal battle against over-arching authoritarianism, and freedom-fighter Phil made his last valiant stand for liberty, swinging a 2 by 4 plank at the heads of the San Diego Harbor Patrol “Puddle-Pigs” who had arrived in their patrol boat to seige, and tow away Phils’ three boats away to their destruction… A Harbor Patrol officer in my phone call from Houston gleefully related this all to me, adding that all three sail oatd were dragged up on a marine railway, and demolished in a field, and ol’ Phil Mcnair was last reported living in squallor underneath the Coronado Bridge….. In retrospect, I CONDEMN, and vehemently CURSE the greedy ORWELLIAN society of contemporary California, in whrenching TECTONIC VIOLENCE CRUMBLE, and COLLAPSE, SLIDING IGNOMINIOUSLY INTO THE DARK, UNFORGIVING PACIFIC DEPTHS TO ULTIMATELY LAY FORGOTTEN, and UNLAMENTED by future generations of humanity…..

We need more freedom and liberty in what we call the land of the free. C”mon whats wrong with free anchorages its not free you have to get there, then buy your ecentials and make the place a fun place not a stuck up bunch of armchair quarterbacks that have no energy. Just do it anyway that will give them somthing to yell about… Thars what they are good at.. Raining on the parade.. Wow!

I think every marina should legally be required to provide a temporary anchorage for safety.

I completely agree!

Slip fees have been ever increasing to the point where a larger and more comfortable live aboard vessel, like a 55 footer, now costs the price of a mortgage payment on land! It’s horrible that there are not more permanent and free anchorages everywhere there are harbors! Not everybody wants to be glued to the terrestrial tariffs of governmental control!!

Comments Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Your Thoughts are Appreciated

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Carefree Boat Club

Boating Without Owning

Main Content

Here’s What 100% Carefree Boating Looks Like for You:

• » No Dock Fees or Insurance
• » No Cleaning or Maintenance
• » Unlimited Use (All Day, Any Day, Every Day!)
• » Boats are Fueled and Ready For You to Hop Onto
• » Full Dock Staff to Assist You
• » Pick Any Kind of Boat
• » Boat Year Round, Anywhere In the U.S.
• » Explore Waterways Near You
• » Safe : We Teach You How to Operate Each Boat
• » Reserve or Boat “ Spur of the Moment ”
• » FREE Tours of Our Docks and Boats

Boating Without Owning… It’s About Time.™

Join us for a free fun tour, see our boats, and get access to our safety training.

Got a question? Ask us online and receive an answer the same day.

Want to talk to us in person? Just give us a call at the location nearest you.

How Carefree Boating Works--In Just 3 Steps

Step 1: reserve your boat.

Make a reservation online, via mobile app, or by phone. Pick your day, time and boat.

Step 2: Pick Up Your Boat

Your boat is in the water when you arrive, filled up with gas and ready to go.

Step 3: Have Fun

When you're done, just bring the boat back to the club. we'll take it from there.

Boat as often as you like, when and where you want.

Select from a wide variety of boats available across multiple locations nationwide with unlimited usage. We make boating easy from start to finish with training & once you're ready to get out on the water, scheduling is a breeze. Experience the boating lifestyle at a great value!

Boat Club locations in US & Canada:

Number of members:, boat trips per year:, boats available:, carefree boat club has been featured on ....

What Our Customers Like You Say they Love About Carefree Boat Club

“My wife and I used to own a boat but found that we spent more time repairing it than enjoying it with our family and friends! It was always repainting this or fixing that. As we got older, towing and launching the boat became a hassle to where we didn’t enjoy boating anymore . So we got rid of it. But thanks to Carefree Boat Club, we got the lifestyle we wanted back into our lives. Carefree makes boating fun again!! Period.”

“My husband told me he had something special planned for our anniversary….and boy did he! I had no idea how special. My husband did the planning...Carefree Boat Club did all the work. It was spectacular, from the service, to the boat, to our own special little cruise. Thank you, Carefree, for giving us lasting and exciting memories of our special night. Take pointers men out there! You will get what you want if you give us what we want! Little did I know that Carefree Boat Club is really a woman’s best friend!”

“My husband and I wanted to do something different with our kids…not another day at home, standing in line at the amusement park or just lying on the beach. I am a stay at home Mom and needed to get out of the house with my kids . We called Carefree and they did the rest. What a fun and relaxing day on a beautiful boat. We swam, snorkeled and even laughed a time or two. Our kids not only didn’t miss their computers or cell phones, they’re asking us, When can we do it again?”

What New Members Say About Our Comprehensive On-Water Boat Handling Course ...

“I sincerely appreciate you guys being so diligent on the up-front assessment and training of new members.  It’s an attention-to-detail that you don’t have to have, and that you probably don’t find in other similar organizations.  As a new member, I appreciate it.”

“I truly appreciate your time today…it was DEFINITELY TIME WELL SPENT FOR ME!!  I picked up many great tips that I know will add to my overall safety and pleasure while utilizing my membership privileges.”

With a Carefree Boat Club Membership You Get :

Affordability.

With membership as little as 1/3 cost of owning a boat, you can cross these expenses off your list: boat purchase, slip fee, insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, towing and winterization.

Unlimited Usage

Use the boats as often as you would like with no additional cost. Our online reservation system allows you to pick the day, time, boat and Carefree location...easily.

Large Variety of Boats

Varieties include 18'-27' Cruiser, Deck, Bowrider, Pontoon, Fishing, Ski and Sail Boats & more! Members have options in both type of boat and type of activity!

Great Availability

With low member to boat ratios, an easy to use online reservation system & spur of the moment walk-on access members can enjoy boating how they like when they like.

Location Options

Members have access to all US and Canada locations. Experience the member benefit of Reciprocity at any of our clubs, from sea to shining sea!

On The Water Instruction

Instructors at each location provide Boat Safety training and handling skills so our members can comfortably and safely enjoy the great variety of boats for all activities.

Locations Across The Globe

We have over 140+ locations and are continually expanding to give you more options for boating without owning. ™ Select your local Carefree Boat Club, or enter your zip code to find out which locations are convenient to you.

A Few More Happy Members ...

“We love the variety of boats and the fact that they're all in such great condition compared to the other clubs we looked at. It's crazy how much use we have gotten out of the boats all year round. I'm not going to lie, I love not having to worry about boat maintenance and cleaning and moorage.”

“Our boating experience has been BETTER than advertised. The dock-staff has been great and the availability of boats outstanding. You just can't beat the variety and ease of being able to check boats out and return them without the associated hassles of owning. Would highly recommend.”

Are you ready to be carefree?

Choose Your Club Location parent_ALABAMA Tuscaloosa, AL endparent parent_CALIFORNIA Channel Islands, CA Marina Del Rey, CA Newport Beach, CA San Diego (Pier 32), CA San Diego (Point Loma), CA San Francisco Bay, CA Sacramento, CA The Delta, CA Ventura Harbor, CA endparent parent_CONNECTICUT Bridgeport, CT Clinton, CT Mystic, CT Stamford, CT Westport, CT endparent parent_DELAWARE Ocean City, MD/DE endparent parent_FLORIDA Aventura, FL Canaveral, FL Cape Coral, FL Crystal River, FL Coconut Grove, FL Clermont, FL Englewood, FL Fort Lauderdale, FL Fort Myers, FL Fort Pierce, FL Jacksonville Beach, FL Jacksonville - Ortega, FL Largo (Tampa Bay), FL Melbourne, FL Pompano Beach, FL Sanford, FL Space Coast, FL Stuart, FL St. Augustine, FL St. Petersburg, FL Tarpon Springs, FL Tavares, FL Vero Beach, FL endparent parent_GEORGIA Lake Lanier, GA Richmond Hill, GA Savannah (Isle of Hope), GA Savannah (The Landings), GA Soap Creek, GA endparent parent_HAWAII Ala Wai Harbor, HI Honokohau Harbor, HI Kawaihae Harbor, HI endparent parent_IDAHO Bayview, ID Post Falls, ID Priest River, ID Sandpoint, ID endparent parent_ILLINOIS Belmont Harbor, Chicago, IL Chicago, IL (31st Street Harbor) Lake Marie, IL endparent parent_MAINE Boothbay Harbor, ME Raymond, ME endparent parent_MARYLAND Annapolis, MD Baltimore, MD Deep Creek, MD Middle River, MD Ocean City, MD/DE Oxon Hill, MD endparent parent_MASSACHUSETTS Boston, MA Danvers, MA endparent parent_MICHIGAN New Buffalo, MI Gull Lake, MI South Haven, MI endparent parent_NEW HAMPSHIRE Lake Sunapee, NH Meredith, NH Ossipee Lake, NH Sebago Lake, NH Wolfeboro, NH endparent parent_NEW JERSEY Avalon, NJ Brick, NJ Red Bank, NJ endparent parent_NEW YORK Buffalo, NY Long Island (Port Washington), NY Long Island (East Moriches), NY Long Island (Greenport), NY Long Island (Hampton Bays), NY Rye, NY Syracuse, NY endparent parent_NORTH CAROLINA Holden Beach, NC Lake Norman, NC Lake Tillery, NC endparent parent_SOUTH CAROLINA Charleston, SC Hilton Head, SC Lake Wylie, SC endparent parent_TENNESSEE Boone Lake, TN Chattanooga (Cameron Harbor), TN Chattanooga (Harbor Lights), TN Knoxville, TN South Holston Lake, TN/VA Watauga Lake, TN endparent parent_TEXAS Clear Lake, TX Lake Conroe, TX Lake Travis, TX endparent parent_VIRGINIA Belmont Bay, VA Hampton, VA Hopewell, VA Lake Anna, VA Moneta, VA Norfolk, VA Urbanna, VA Virginia Beach, VA Williamsburg, VA Woodbridge, VA endparent parent_WASHINGTON STATE Bellevue, WA Bellingham, WA Fishermen’s Terminal, WA Kirkland Homeport Marina, WA Lake Chelan, WA Seattle, WA Shilshole Bay Marina, WA endparent parent_WISCONSIN Lake Geneva, WI Milwaukee, WI endparent parent_DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Washington, D.C. endparent parent_CANADA Ashbridges Bay, Ontario Lake Simcoe, Ontario Montréal, Quebec Niagara, Ontario Toronto, Ontario endparent parent_CARIBBEAN Tortola, British Virgin Islands endparent parent_CENTRAL AMERICA La Playita, Panama endparent parent_PHILIPPINES Subic Bay, Philippines endparent

Locations Around the Globe

• Tuscaloosa, AL
• Channel Islands Ventura, CA
• Coronado, CA
• Isleton (The Delta), CA
• Marina Del Rey, CA
• Newport Beach, CA
• San Diego (Pier 32), CA
• San Diego (Point Loma), CA
• San Francisco Bay, CA
• Sacramento, CA
• Ventura Harbor, CA

Connecticut

• Bridgeport, CT
• Clinton, CT
• Noank Shipyard, CT
• Stamford, CT
• Westport, CT
• Ocean City, MD/DE
• Aventura, FL
• Canaveral, FL
• Cape Coral, FL
• Crystal River, FL
• Coconut Grove, FL
• Clermont, FL
• Englewood, FL
• Fernandina Beach, FL
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Fort Myers, FL
• Fort Pierce, FL
• Jacksonville Beach, FL
• Jacksonville - Ortega, FL
• Sanford, FL
• Melbourne, FL
• Pompano Beach, FL
• Port Charlotte, FL
• Port Orange, FL
• Space Coast, FL
• St. Augustine, FL
• St. Petersburg, FL
• Tarpon Springs, FL
• Tavares, FL
• Vero Beach, FL
• Lake Lanier, GA
• Richmond Hill, GA
• Savannah (Isle of Hope), GA
• Savannah (The Landings), GA
• Soap Creek, GA
• Ala Wai Harbor,HI
• Honokohau Harbor, HI
• Kawaihae Harbor, HI
• Bayview, ID
• Post Falls, ID
• Priest River, ID
• Sandpoint, ID
• Belmont Harbor, Chicago, IL
• 31st St., Chicago, IL
• Boothbay Harbor, ME
• Raymond, ME
• Annapolis, MD
• Baltimore, MD
• Deep Creek, MD
• Middle River, MD
• Oxon Hill, MD

Massachusetts

• Danvers, MA
• New Buffalo, MI
• Gull Lake, MI
• South Haven, MI

New Hampshire

• Freedom, NH
• George Mills, NH
• Meredith, NH
• Wolfeboro, NH
• Red Bank, NJ
• Buffalo, NY
• Long Island (Port Washington), NY
• Long Island (East Moriches), NY
• Long Island (Greenport), NY
• Long Island (Hampton Bays), NY
• Syracuse, NY

North Carolina

• Holden Beach, NC
• Lake Norman, NC
• Lake Tillery, NC

South Carolina

• Charleston (City Marina), SC
• Charleston (Daniel Island), SC
• Hilton Head, SC
• Lake Murray, SC
• Lake Wylie, SC
• Boone Lake, TN
• Chattanooga (Cameron Harbor), TN
• Chattanooga (Harbor Lights), TN
• Knoxville, TN
• South Holston Lake, TN/VA
• Watauga Lake, TN
• Clear Lake, TX
• Lake Conroe, TX
• Lake Travis, TX
• Hampton, VA
• Hopewell, VA
• Lake Anna, VA
• Norfolk, VA
• Smith Mountain Lake, VA
• Urbanna, VA
• Virginia Beach, VA
• Williamsburg (Kingsmill Marina), VA
• Williamsburg (Two Rivers Marina), VA
• Woodbridge, VA

Washington State

• Bellevue, WA
• Bellingham, WA
• Fishermen’s Terminal, WA
• Lake Chelan, WA
• Shilshole Bay Marina, WA
• Kenmore, WA
• Lake Union, WA
• Lake Geneva, WI
• Milwaukee, WI

District of Columbia

• Washington, D.C.
• Ashbridges Bay, Ontario
• Hamilton, Ontario
• Lake Simcoe, Ontario
• Montréal, Quebec
• Niagara, Ontario
• Scarborough, Ontario
• St. Catharines, Ontario

British Virgin Islands

• Tortola, BVI

Central America

• La Playita, Panama

Southeast Asia

Philippines.

• Subic Bay, PH

United States & Canada

Schedule a Tour Call Us - Click Here Boat Rentals Start A Club Boat Trades/Sales Blog ¿HABLAS ESPAÑOL? Reserve My Boat (for members)

CONNECT WITH US

Never see this message again.

Boating on San Diego Bay

Get information on recreational boating on San Diego Bay along with helpful links for mariners.

I need to...

Find Parking

See Mariner Resources

See Marine Traffic

Make guest dock reservations

Enjoy the Port of San Diego from the Bay

Dock and Dine

Try more that 60 waterfront restaurants on San Diego Bay!

View Dock and Dine

Boat Launching Ramps

View Boat Launching Ramps

Shelter Island Guest Docks

View Shelter Island Guest Docks

San Diego Bay Marinas

View San Diego Bay Marinas

Sanitary Stations and Fuel Docks

View Sanitary Stations and Fuel Docks

Boat Repair

View Boat Repair

Charter Vessel Regulations

View Charter Vessel Regulations

San Diego Bay Online Boating Reservations

San Diego Bay is a recreational haven that attracts boaters from all over the world. To make the bay more accessible and enjoyable, the Port of San Diego provides temporary anchorage areas for boaters.

The Port has established an  online reservation service . Boaters may choose from anchorages or guest docks.

• Anchorages are a maximum of 72-hour reservation. There must be a 24-hour gap before applying for another permit.
• Guest docks allow you to stay 15 days in a 40-day period. The docks are located at the southwestern end of Shelter Island.

Reservations were accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Check Availability and Make a Reservation

Maritime Links

California boater card.

As of January 1, 2018, the mandatory boating safety education law goes into effect, and will be phased in by age. If you operate any type of motorized vessel on California waterways (including powered sailboats/paddlecraft), you will be required to pass an approved boating safety examination and carry a lifetime California Boater Card.

 Click here for more information on the California Boater Card

Contact Harbor Police

San diego bay live vessel tracking.

Welcome to Our Six Harbors

Channel islands, marina del rey, redondo beach, newport beach, boats for charter.

Over 70 boats at six wonderful harbors are waiting for your sailing adventures

Sailing School

Marina Sailing offers a wide range of sailing instruction from beginning to advanced levels

Yacht Management

You can enjoy using your boat at your discretion while benefiting from our professional yacht management services

Corporate Events

Sailing is often a very team-oriented sport, and is a great tool for team building activities

Marina Sailing offers two seasons of racing with the Marina Cup in the spring and the Mosier Cup in the fall

Exotic Flotillas

Each year our members embark to exotic locations around the world to explore the best sailing locations including the Caribbean, Tahiti, Thailand, and more

Membership Benefits

When you join marina sailing, you are not just becoming a part of a sailing club; you are becoming a member of california’s largest and most experienced sailing charter and instruction company. we have much more to offer than just renting yachts:.

• Free sailing test
• ‍Free sailing and navigation classes
• ‍Discounted ASA Courses and Certifications
• ‍Professional and friendly staff
• ‍Access to over 70 beautiful sail and power yachts
• Low-cost charters on yachts 22 to 50 feet, including monohulls, catamarans, and powerboats
• Six beautiful fleet locations along the Southern California coast
• Racing program with two seasons, the Marina Cup in the spring, and Mosier Cup in the fall
• Parties and open-houses
• Fun sailing flotillas to Catalina and the Channel Islands
• Exotic sailing vacations to the Caribbean, Mexico, Tahiti, and more

Sign up today!

The latest in marina sailing, marina sailing covid-19 prevention.

• Enforcing social distancing in every aspect
• No one except Marina Sailing staff are permitted inside offices
• Paperwork is done either online or at a desk at office entrances
• ASA tests are administered outside with ample space
• Limiting vessel capacity to better facilitate social distancing, maximum six passengers.
• Requiring face coverings during all interaction with non-household members – such as Marina Sailing staff, at the dock etc.
• Requiring that the captain and crew of a charter vessel must be from the same household.
• Providing hand sanitizer, soap and paper towels on all charter vessels
• Prior to your arrival, all boats are being thoroughly disinfected, with every surface being wiped down. Our cleaners are protecting themselves using the latest CDC recommendations and are taking particular care in making sure the boat is safe for you and your guests!

Daysails and Events Coming Soon

With restrictions lifting and a target for California of 100% open by June 15th, we are anticipating being able to have daysails and other group gatherings in June. We would like to thank everyone for helping us follow the regulations set down by the CDC and the state and we are ecstatic to get back to normal this summer.

The Ultimate Sailing Course ASA 101, 103, and 104 schedule (Feb 2020 - Sept 2020)

Apr 21-25  Long Beach May 10-14  Marina del Rey May 24-28  Redondo Beach Jun 07-11  Channel Islands Jun 14-25  Long Beach Jun 21-25  Marina del Rey

Learn and become proficient sailing 30 to 40-foot sailboats over five days on "The Ultimate Sailing Course". Basic Keelboat Sailing (ASA 101), Basic Coastal Cruising (ASA 103), and Bareboat Chartering (104) are all included. Basic through advanced techniques are taught as we sail to spectacular offshore islands and beautiful harbors. We will visit multiple coves and marinas and learn everything from basic sailboat handling to advanced off-shore sailing.

Yacht Management Programs

Own a boat? Now’s the perfect time to put her in the Marina Sailing charter fleet! We are all going through a tough time and an additional source of income will help take some stress out of your life. Enjoy professional yacht management from a great staff. Check the Yacht Management Program page on our website and call 562-432-4672 or email [email protected] for more details!

Marina del Rey Sailing School Open!

Marina del Rey sailing school is open! We are collaborating with city officials, the ASA, and our instructors to provide a safe, fun, and educational environment in the current climate. Until further notice each lesson with have 2 students on smaller, 4 max on larger boats to maintain social distance. We will provide every student and instructor with a disposable mask, hand sanitizer will be available on every boat, and boats will be cleaned between every lesson. Powerboat lessons are now available too! Come start/continue your sailing jouney and give 1-800-262-SAIL a call or email [email protected] too book your next lesson now! MdR office hours 9am-1pm.

Buy a Yacht for Less!

Submit your sailing photos and win great prizes, restore password/login.

The password has been sent to your email address of record

• Sailing Club

Free US SAILING Basic Keelboat with Enrollment Upon joining, you will receive a complimentary US SAILING Basic Keelboat group class for one person. Already know how to sail? Receive a $225 credit towards one sailing class of your choice.

Over 60 of the Newest & Most Popular Sailboats We have the largest selection of Catalina, Hunter, and Beneteau Yachts available. Our large, customized selection of new, clean sailboats makes your sailing experience the very best one available in Southern California – you’ll never have a problem reserving the boat of your choice.

Affordable, Leisurely Sailing When you take out any of our sailboats in San Diego, we never require you to clean, pump out, or re-fuel the boat upon returning. No additional cleaning or pump-out fees are added to your charter rate. Simply take your trash and belongings with you, and we take care of the rest! Our friendly and experienced staff ensures that your sailing experience with us is always the most relaxing and enjoyable one possible.

Find Sailing Partners Our “Members Only” portion of our website allows you to specify your experience level, availability, and boat preference in order to connect you with other sailors that are looking for those criteria. You can search for sailing partners that have criteria you are looking for as well, so you can meet fellow members, gain experience on the water, and share sailing costs.

SAILING CLUB

• Membership Fees
• Referral Program

INSTRUCTION

• Basic Keelboat (Beginner)
• Basic Cruising (Intermediate)
• Bareboat Cruising (Advanced)
• 3 Day Liveaboard – Intermediate
• 3 Day Liveaboard – Advanced
• 5 Day Liveaboard (Beginner & Intermediate)
• 5 Day Liveaboard (Intermediate / Advanced)
• San Diego Fleet Rates
• San Diego Fleet Specs
• Catalina Getaways
• Submit Sailing Resume

Matt Weidert

Sailing in Southern California on a San Diego Bareboat Charter

• Planning resources
• When to go sailing in San Diego
• Week-long sailing itinerary

Why you might like this San Diego sailing trip

• Enjoy settled, predictable weather and protected sailing in San Diego Bay
• Easy provisioning and logistics - the San Diego airport is less than 1 mile from one of the primary marinas - Harbor Island
• Ample opportunities to dock or anchor close to onshore amenities such as beaches and restaurants
• Potential for longer offshore passages to Catalina Island, or beyond to the Channel Islands

Why you might not like this sailing charter destination

• It’s California, so the water is colder year round. This means 70 degrees in September (in the British Virgin Islands it would be 85 degrees). It’s possible to swim, but it’s chilly, especially if you have kids
• San Diego is busy, so expect lots of crowds and elbow rubbing with your neighbors in most anchorages or mooring fields
• Don’t expect the steady, consistent trade winds you’d encounter in the Caribbean. Local winds are determined by the sea breeze effect which will build throughout the day. You can read more about the San Diego sailing conditions here

San Diego bareboat charter trip highlights

• Enjoy the buzz of America’s foremost military town: expect to see US Navy ships transiting the bay, jets taking off from North Island, or catch a glimpse of a submarine at the Point Loma base
• Anchor nearby and enjoy beach days at the popular Mission and Coronado beaches
• Sail (or motor) up the coast past Camp Pendleton, the U.S. Marine Corps Base, to Newport Beach
• Cruise offshore for a multi-day stop at Catalina Island and the Avalon and Two Harbours anchorages
• Take a sunset sail inside the bay and enjoy the city sights
• Enjoy many shore-based excursion options including the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Lego Land, or Sea World

San Diego bareboat charter planning resources

Yacht charter operators.

• West Coast Multihulls has a fleet of 7 catamarans. They require a minimum level of sailing experience as well as sailing certifications.
• Harbor Sailboats , where we learned to sail, offers a fleet of 17 monohulls, most in the 30-40 foot range, with some larger ones as well. They are primarily Beneteaus. You might have to join the club to charter from them.

Bay anchoring reservations

When to go sailing in San Diego?

• There is less chance for prolonged periods of the dreary marine layer blocking out your sunshine
• The weather is warmer, which helps offset the chilly California sea temperatures
• It’s a good time to visit when other charter destinations might be off-limits due to hurricane season
• It’s summer vacation, so there is a lot going on across the city, and it’s a great time to visit with kids

Week-long San Diego sailing itinerary

Day 1: cruise through san diego bay to coronado island.

Day 2: Enjoy a beach day at Mission Beach

Day 3: Sail up the Southern California coast to Newport Beach

Day 4: Cross offshore to Catalina Island

Day 5: Enjoy the lovely town of Avalon

Day 6: sail back to san diego..

Day 7: Listen to a concert at Humphrey’s from your dinghy

Day 8: check out day, explore these related articles from the yacht warriors.

Beyond the charts: echoes of the U.S. Military in the SVI

Have you ever wondered why the SVIs, nestled so closely to their popular Virgin Islands' sisters, remain a less-charted paradise?

BVI Sailing Itinerary: The Perfect Week in the BVI

There is no better place for a sailing trip than the British Virgin Islands. Check out my perfect week-long BVI sailing itinerary.

What is the Distance from Key West to the Dry Tortugas?

Discover the distance from Key West to the Dry Tortugas in our guide including essential sailing insights for a successful yacht charter.

When is your next yacht charter? Consider booking with the Yacht Warriors.

Charter. Beyond.

Get fresh ideas for your next yacht charter trip - insider guides, sailing itineraries, planning tips, and more. Subscribe and receive my free BVI Trip Planning Document.

The Worldwide Leader in Sailmaking

• Sail Care & Repair
• Sailing Gear
• Sail Finder
• Custom Sails
• One Design Sails
• Flying Sails
• New Sail Quote
• 3Di Technology
• Helix Technology
• Sail Design
• NPL RENEW Sustainable Sailcloth
• Sailcloth & Material Guide
• Polo Shirts
• Sweaters & Cardigans
• Sweatshirts & Hoodies
• Accessories
• Mid & Baselayers
• Deckwear & Footwear
• Luggage & Accessories
• Spring Summer '24
• Sailor Jackets
• NS x Slowear
• Sailor Jacket
• Sustainability
• North Sails Blog
• Sail Like A Girl
• Icon Sailor Jacket
• Our Locations
• North SUP Boards
• North Foils
• North Kiteboarding
• North Windsurfing

SAIL FINDER

SAILING GEAR

COLLECTIONS & COLLAB

WE ARE NORTH SAILS

ACTION SPORTS

Popular Search Terms

Collections

Sorry, no results for ""

SAIL LOFT SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, US

North Sails is the world's premier sailmaker for racing and cruising sailboats. Since opening our first sail loft in 1957, we have been the number one new sail choice for world-champion racers, superyachts, one-design sailboats , catamarans, trimarans, and casual cruisers. New sail options range to cater to any sailing adventure or budget. We look forward to welcoming you to our sail loft in San Diego, California. Contact our experts to learn more.

YOUR LOCAL TEAM

SO NEAR, YET SO FAR AHEAD

The North Sails team understands the importance of having top-quality sails that optimize your boat's performance. Our extensive range includes mainsails, jibs, genoas, spinnakers, and more, all meticulously crafted using advanced materials and cutting-edge technology. Whether you're racing competitively or cruising leisurely, our sails are designed to deliver superior speed, control, and durability.

LOFT SERVICES

Local expertise.

Our loft team are your local experts to tap into the innovation and resources available throughout North Sails' global network. These qualified sailors and sailmakers offer advice and help, which are equally important to the sails we sell.

North Sails is the premier sailmaker for all  racing  and  cruising  sailboats. We are the number one new sail choice for world-champion racers, superyachts,  one-design sailboats , catamarans, trimarans, and casual cruisers. New sail options range to cater to any sailing adventure or budget. 

SAIL CARE & REPAIR

Our sail loft  services  are dedicated to providing you with professional sail repairs, maintenance, and upgrades. We know that whether you race or cruise, your sails are a major investment, and we’re committed to helping you maximize their performance and lifespan. 

NORTH SAILS

3di technology, helix sails.

GET IN TOUCH

REQUEST A QUOTE

EXPLORE THE RANGE

FIND YOUR SAIL

Stay in the loop.

• Refresh page

• Find A School
• Certifications
• North U Sail Trim
• Inside Sailing with Peter Isler
• Docking Made Easy
• Study Quizzes
• Bite-sized Lessons
• Fun Quizzes
• Sailing Challenge

Harbor Sailboats is San Diego’s Premier Sailing Club, offering award winning instruction aboard California’s most modern fleet of sailboats including 12 brand new Capri 22’s for ASA 101. Founded in 1969, Harbor Sailboats offers ASA sailing courses from Basic Keelboat to Advanced Coastal Cruising including ASA 114, Cruising Catamaran. In addition to offering the International Proficiency Certificate for European/Mediterranean chartering, Harbor Sailboats also offers learn to sail vacations. Spend the week aboard a luxurious sailing yacht while a certified instructor prepares you for a lifetime of confident sailing. Every boat in the Harbor Sailboats fleet passes an annual United States Coast Guard safety inspection and all dock staff members are USCG Licensed Captains and ASA Certified Instructors.

Located at the West end of Harbor Island on the beautiful San Diego Bay, Harbor Sailboats is no stranger to seemingly 75 degree year-around weather. San Diego Bay is the ultimate location for sailing lessons because of the protected bay and steady winds ranging for 10-15 knots, it’s unlike any other sailing location in the United States.

Harbor Sailboats prides its self on offering top level instruction and the newest and most well-kept sailing fleet in all of California. The fleet consist of over 30 sailboats by the top builders Beneteau, Catalina and Lagoon. We’re open seven days a week and are always available over phone or in person. Stop by anytime to walk the docks and let us show you why Harbor Sailboats is the best choice for those looking to set the proper foundation for a lifetime of sailing.

American Sailing Certifications Offered

Other Services Available

• Women Only Courses
• Private Courses
• Weekday Courses
• Weekend Courses
• Corporate Team Building Courses
• ASA 'Challenges'
• Day Sail Charters (public)
• Day Sail Charters (member-only)
• Vacation Charters
• Sunset Cruises
• Sailboat Cruises
• Racing Courses
• Sail Trim Courses
• Spinnaker Courses

Sailing School Reviews / Testimonials

Renee - Harbor Sailboats

Brian - Harbor Sailboats

Ted - ASA 101, Keelboat Sailing 1

Jason - Harbor Sailboats

Tyler - ASA 104, Bareboat Cruising

Contact Information

Other Popular Schools...

• Learn To Sail
• Mobile Apps
• Online Courses
• Upcoming Courses
• Sailor Resources
• ASA Log Book
• Bite Sized Lessons
• Knots Made Easy
• Catamaran Challenge
• Sailing Vacations
• Sailing Cruises
• Charter Resources
• International Proficiency Certificate
• Find A Charter
• All Articles
• Sailing Tips
• Sailing Terms
• Destinations
• Environmental
• Initiatives
• Instructor Resources
• Become An Instructor
• Become An ASA School
• Member / Instructor Login
• Affiliate Login

Harbor Sailboats

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Harbor Sailboats - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Members Forum
• Log In / Create Account

• Sailing Lessons in San Diego

by Harbor Sailboats | Mar 6, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

Aspiring sailors have many choices when researching sailing lessons. From coast to coast you’ll find many accredited sailing schools but why are sailing lessons in San Diego so much better!? Here are just a few reasons why learning to sail in San Diego should be your top choice.

San Diego Bay offers 22 square miles of protected and predictable sailing and is the perfect location for learning to sail . With prevailing winds that can be forecasted days, if not weeks in advance, new sailors will find comfort in this mild yet fun waterway!

San Diego weather is no secret with an average of 275 days of sunny to partly cloudy days per year and an average annual temperature near 70 degrees. Rarely do students bundle up or grab their raincoats for sailing lessons in San Diego. More than likely, you’ll be in shorts and a T-shirt during your sailing class in San Diego with Harbor Sailboats!

Sailing lessons are of course focused on the sailing but taking a sailing class is San Diego is about more than just the instruction. The San Diego bayfront is a beautiful sight with skyscrapers, naval activity from aircraft carriers to helicopters, Coronado Island, marine life, maritime museums, Americas Cup boats, and so much more. When your sailing class allows time to relax and soak it in, San Diego Bay is tough to beat!

Not all of your sailing classes in San Diego are confided to the bay as more advanced classes will stretch your sea legs into the Pacific Ocean. A 4 mile sail from the docks of Harbor Sailboats will lead out of the channel past Point Loma and into the ocean! Experience stronger wind, more open water, ocean swell, and an uninterrupted view of the horizon as far as you can see!

Harbor Sailboats offers year-round sailing lessons in San Diego aboard our fleet a 45+ meticulously maintained sailboats from top brands like Beneteau and Catalina. New sailors first sailing lesson begins with Basic Keelboat where you’ll learn the skills and confidence to skipper 22’ boats in familiar waters. From there, sailors will advance their skills with sailboats rentals and higher level sailing lessons via the benefits of the sailing club membership . Step aboard and we hope to see you on the water soon!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Latest Blog Posts

• Water in the Bilge
• Bow Standing
• Gear then Steer
• 2024 Club Flotilla- BVI’s

We Make Boating Simple, You Make It Fun! Freedom Boat Club is the hassle-free alternative to boat ownership.

Submit this form for pricing and information about the club and to start making memories that last a lifetime!

Valid mobile number REQUIRED to view info

By submitting my information, I consent to receive calls and text messages from the company, including information about my membership, and advertising and telemarketing messages. I agree that these calls and messages may be made using an automatic telephone dialing system or an artificial or prerecorded voice. I understanding that selecting this option is not a condition of membership or of purchasing any goods or services from the company.

Boating Made Simple®

Freedom boat club of san diego, local club locations: dana landing marina mission bay, harbor island san diego bay, oceanside harbor.

Freedom Boat Club – the world’s largest members-only boat club – was founded in 1989 in Sarasota, Florida. Today, the Clubs 300+ locations welcomes hundreds of members to its docks each day to enjoy a day on the water while we take care of the rest including fueling, cleaning, maintenance, and more.

Here's How the Club Works

We Take Care of It All...Including the Boats

We’ve taken care to select a variety of quality boats. And we always keep them clean and maintained. We also take care of the storage, insurance and repairs. So you can just focus on the fun!

Pay a 1x Entry Fee and Monthly Dues

Just pay a 1x entry fee and choose one of our membership plans. Boat every day of the year. Or just weekdays. Some clubs may even have 3 and 6 month plans. And you can change your plan as the need arises.

Get Unlimited Training from Licensed Captains

Your safety is our No. 1 concern. So we give all our members unlimited training with USCG-certified captains. And if you wish to boat in a new location, they’ll show you the waterways.

Take Any Boat Out as Often as You Wish

Reserve a boat by phone or online. Then go fishing, tubing or head to a restaurant with friends. When you’re done, just bring the boat back and pay for the fuel. We take care of everything else!

Why Choose Freedom Boat Club?

Freedom Boat Club – the world’s largest members-only boat club – was founded in 1989 in Sarasota, Florida. Today the Clubs 275+ locations welcomes hundreds of members to its docks each day to enjoy a day on the water while we take care of the rest including fueling, cleaning, maintenance, and more.

Dream Boating Made Affordable!

• Free, Unlimited Training
• Share a Nationwide Fleet of Boats
• Reciprocal access at 275+ locations in the US, Canada and France
• Multiple Affordable Membership Plans Available

We Make Boating Simple, You Make It Fun.

Bring your friends, family, children, clients, and even pets! All those things you imagine boating to be, suddenly become a reality.

• Waterskiing

Your Boats Are Waiting!

From sea shores to lake shores Freedom Boat Club has numerous locations, and an entire fleet at your disposal.

• Inshore Fishing Boats
• Wave Surfing

Boat Ownership vs. Joining the Club

Boat ownership consists of much more than enjoying the water: cleaning, storage, maintenance and repairs, not to mention depreciation. The hidden costs of ownership can quickly add up, as can the time that is spent not enjoying the boat.

We’ve helped thousands experience the joys of boating in a simple, affordable way!

Boat clubs are designed for folks who want to access a versatile fleet of boats on a regular basis, at an affordable cost of entry..

• Advertising
• Classifieds
• Top 100 For-Hire
• Top 100 Private
• Top 50 Global Freight
• Top 100 Logistics
• Photo Galleries
• TT Newsmakers
• TT Magazine Event Series
• Smart Speaker Briefings
• Perspective
• Letters to the Editor
• Fun & Games
• Crossword Puzzle
• Special Coverage
• Trucking's Frontline Heroes
• Special Reports
• Capitol Agenda
• Event Coverage
• Upcoming Events
• Submit Your Event
• Resource Center
• Whitepapers
• Government & Industry Resources
• U.S. Government Sites
• State Government Sites

San Diego Port Unveils Nation’s First All-Electric Tugboat

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

More Content About:

Related articles.

US Plans to Build a Terminal at Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port

L.A., Long Beach Ports Close for Second Day on Labor Shortage

Port Authorities Look to Make the Right Adjustments

• House Transportation

The little (electric) engine that could: The Port of San Diego unveils the nation's first all-electric tug boat

For the record :

1:58 p.m. March 13, 2024 : This story has been updated to show the correct amount of government funding that went to the project.

The nation's first all-electric tug boat has docked at the Port of San Diego and expects to begin emissions-free operations in about a month.

Operated by Crowley Maritime Corporation , the 82-foot eWolf will escort ships entering and leaving the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal using electric power instead of diesel fuel, helping slash greenhouse gas emissions at the port and its neighbors in Barrio Logan and National City.

"This is a big deal," said port chairman Frank Urtasun at a news conference Monday. "This is new technology."

Capable of speeds of up to 12 knots, the eWolf is powered by a 6.2 megawatt-hour main propulsion battery and two electric drives. The tug has thrust — also known as bollard pull in the parlance of the shipping industry — of 76.8 short tons, which is more powerful than the diesel-powered counterparts at the port.

Constructed in Alabama, the eWolf is equipped with two small generators for emergency use that allow the boat to travel longer distances at a reduced speed.

"Like an electric car, you step on the gas and it jumps," said Paul Manzi, vice president of Crowley Shipping, based in Jacksonville, Fla. "All of the attributes that you have with an electric motor operation in a car or in an electric truck, you see here in the (eWolf) at massive scale. And it's extremely quiet so when it pulls away from the dock you literally won't hear any noise."

The tug boat's electricity will come from a charging station that is part of a microgrid facility equipped with two energy storage containers. Battery modules in each container have storage capacity of nearly 1.5 megawatt-hours.

Interconnected with the help of San Diego Gas & Electric, the charging station at the port is designed to allow the vessel to recharge quickly and reduce peak loads on the electric grid.

Operators plan to charge the eWolf overnight so it can perform its chores during daytime hours.

"This technology has individually been around for a while, but it hasn't necessarily been integrated and optimized to all work together — and that's kind of our role," said Bruce Strupp, vice president at ABB Marine & Ports , the company that designed the boat's propulsion system. "Some of the technology is our technology, some of it's third-party technology, but we integrate it all together."

The electric tug boat is expected to begin commercial operations at the port in mid- to late-April, depending on the completion of the charging station.

Officials at Crowley did not release the eWolf's price tag Monday, saying only that it cost about twice as much as a conventional diesel-powered tug boat of comparable size.

But, Manzi said, the company expects the eWolf's maintenance and operating costs will be "dramatically lower" than what's spent on a diesel-powered tug boat because the electric model has fewer moving parts.

The entire project — the vessel as well as the charging station — received four grants that added up to $13.67 million, with two grants of $10.9 million from the San Diego Air Pollution Control District, one grant of just over $2 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and $750,000 from the federal government's Maritime Administration.

In 2020, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order that directed state agencies to transition off-road vehicles — including tug boats — and equipment to 100 percent zero emissions by 2035.

By replacing one of the port's diesel-powered tugs, the eWolf is expected to eliminate the consumption of about 35,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year. In its first 10 years of use, the electric tug boat is expected to reduce about 3,100 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the port and its surrounding areas such as Barrio Logan and National City.

"We're trying to be good neighbors and trying to be able to help to reduce emissions here to help the electrification movement," Urtasun said, adding that the port has spent about $130 million on various electrification projects.

Last year, the Port of San Diego became the first in North America to install a pair of all-electric cranes to load and off-load heavy cargo. Each 262 feet high, the cranes replaced an older crane that ran on diesel fuel. Together, the cranes expect to help the port reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 47 metric tons per year.

This story originally appeared in San Diego Union-Tribune .

©2024 The San Diego Union-Tribune. Visit sandiegouniontribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.