let's go sailing!
Enjoy a complimentary beer, hard seltzer, or juice
While Sailing a Spacious Catamaran on the Monterey Bay!
Catamaran Cruises
Welcome aboard Monterey’s newest and finest catamaran!
Daytime
Catamaran Sailing Cruises
Experience beautiful Monterey Bay with friends and family.
- 1:15min
- 7 - 18 Passengers
- Thursday - Monday
- Complimentary Beverage
Sunset
Catamaran Sailing Cruises
Departs about 1 hour and 30 minutes before the sunset.
- 1:30min
- 7 - 18 Passengers
- Thursday - Monday
- Complimentary Beverage
Private Sailing Cruises
Choose between a Catamaran or a Monohull
Up to 23 People
Monohull/Keelboat
Private Cruises
Up to 6 People
Sailing School and Activities
Sail Monterey is our city’s only sailing activity center
Public and Private Classes Available
Check out our free interactive knot tying station!
Throw a Party on a Sail Boat!
E-Gift Cards
Give the gift of sailing! Gift cards are good for catamaran cruises, sailing lessons, boat rentals and more!
Common Questions
What services does Sail Monterey offer?
Sail Monterey offers the following
- Sailing Cruises
- Sailing Lessons and Classes
- Sailboat Rentals
Sailing Cruises are mainly hosted on our 37ft Catamaran. However, you can also choose a keelboat to sail on. Keelboats are what most people picture in their mind when they think of a sailboat. You also have the option to host a special event on one of these boats! Sail Monterey has hosted weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, memorials, engagements and more!
Sailing Lessons and classes are really fun! Start by signing up for the 2 hour introduction to sailing class. After that, you can get information on joining an ASA 101 class to continue your education. Checkout the “Sailing Classes” Tab above for more information.
Sailboat Rentals are available for anyone who already knows how to sail or operate a boat. Most of our renters are our students who have taken at least the introductory and ASA 101 classes.
Why choose Sail Monterey for an aquatic adventure?
Go Green
Sailing is an eco-friendly way to see the bay. Our sail boats use the power of the wind on 90% of each trip, burning diesel only to exit and enter the harbor. Meanwhile, other boating trips consume huge amounts of fossil fuels. Also, sailing is quiet and does not disturb marine life communication.
Professional and Safe
Our captains are well trained, professional, and passionate about sailing. Most importantly, they put safety first and make sure that you are are comfortable.
Never crowded
Although our catamaran can carry 24 passengers, we limit our capacity to ensure everyone onboard enjoys space and comfort.
What's the best time of year to visit Monterey?
With 267 days of sunshine on average in Monterey California, any time is a good time. During Fall and Winter there is less traffic but in the Spring and Summer it is slightly warmer. If you visit Monterey for a few days, it is almost certain that you will experience some nice weather and some epic scenery.
Where do we go on the boat?
At Sail Monterey, we subscribe to the notion that our destination is the journey itself. After we exit the harbor, we will set sail and go wherever the wind blows. We will likely sail upwind for half the time, and downwind for half the time. We will ply our way a few miles out upon the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary whiles enjoying the view of Monterey Penninsula and the famous sand dunes surrounding the bay. If you’d like to know more, read this article written by our very own captain, Dan Porter. Where Do We Sail?
What will we see?
We see different sights and animals on each cruise. Although this is not a whale watching trip or animal sighting tour, we have seen many different kinds of animals during our cruises. We have seen whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals, sea otters, mola mola, jellyfish, sharks, birds and much more. In general, we encourage our guest to focus on enjoying the ride because we cannot guarantee the appearance of wildlife.
What is there to do in Monterey?
Check out our blog for other ideas of what you can do in Monterey while on your visit. We have compiled bucket list experiences to cross off on your travels as well as our favorite activities and restaurants in the local area. Sail Monterey Blog
Which sailing experience should I choose?
If your are interested in relaxing with a beverage and enjoying the views, then book a public or private sailing cruise with us. These can both be found on our home page and you can choose which boat you’d like to sail on.
If you’re interested in a hands on experience to learn how to sail or to have some fun and help the captain, then book a sailing lesson or a private 6 passenger cruise.
Of course, If you are not sure, then give us a call and we can help you decide which adventure to choose!
Can I learn to sail here?
Yes! From a short explanation of how sailboats work to a full range of sailing lessons and classes, we can help you accomplish your dreams of learning to sail. Your captain would be thrilled to explain the mechanics of sailing and give you a trick at the wheel. Don’t forget, we always have instructors ready to start you on your first sailing lesson. We teach a full curriculum of American Sailing Association courses along with casual sailing lessons and refresher courses. Our licensed instructors have taught and certified boat loads of happy students. ASA certifications are valid for life and recognized internationally. Once certified, you can qualify to rent our boats.
Can I rent a sailboat?
Yes! Here are the requirements for those looking to rent a sail boat.
1. If you are one of our sailing students, you can rent the boat you are qualified for.
2. If you have an ASA certification from another school, you must preform and pass our rental check out process.
3. If you can provide us with your sailing resume and you can preform and pass our rental checkout process.
If you have little to no sailing experience, you may not be able to rent from us, so give us a call and find out.
Capt. Paul provided an outstanding tour of the bay! Experience was as if a friend took us out on his boat. Excellent directions to the landing point and perfect recommendations for local lunch restaurants. Definitely recommend this tour!
- Laura
The introduction to sailing class was well done! Capt. Dan was professional, informative, and entertaining. The boat was clean and excellently maintained. Overall, just a great and fun experience
- Richard
Booked same day, friendly workers, they provided complimentary snacks and drinks, 10/10!!
- Anyssa
Paul was an excellent captain. We saw whales, and dolphins and had a great time! I highly recommend this experience when visiting Monterey.
- Nikki