San Francisco Yacht Charter FAQ:
What to Wear, Bring & Know Before You Go
We offer this page of Frequently Asked Questions because we want to make sure you have the best possible time on your upcoming yacht charter and to help you feel safe, comfortable, and fully prepared.
All our yachts are equipped with the proper safety equipment for everyone on board. There are life jackets available for all passengers – kids and adults.
You’re welcome to bring along any food items or non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during your trip.
Many guests like to pack a picnic or some easy-to-eat snacks to enhance their time on the water.
We’ll take care of the navigation and the sea-worthy know-how—just bring your sense of adventure and a spirit ready to relax and explore!
Think Hydration
We have plenty of water and soft drinks. Think about hydration during a day out in the sun.
Don’t forget the sunscreen and lip balm.
Reapply sunscreen throughout the day. It can prevent a very uncomfortable evening and all the long-term effects of sunburn.
Dress in layers.
The temperature and wind on the Bay change a lot so be prepared. It will make your day that much more enjoyable for you.
We recommend dressing in layers, even on warm days. The weather on the San Francisco Bay can shift quickly – cool breezes and fog can roll in, especially later in the day.
A windbreaker, hat, and sunglasses are smart additions, along with non-slip shoes to ensure safety on deck.
We can provide
- Catering referrals
- Bar Set-up
- Themed party decorations
Clothing
- Sunglasses
- Hats (sun or warm hat for nights or windy days)
- Soft soled sport shoes or boat shoes
- Light waterproof windbreaker
- Warm jacket for colder days or night boating
- T-shirt base and layer from there for all conditions
Prevention
- Sunscreen (min. SPF-50)
- Chapstick
Food Options
- We provide water, soda and sparkling water
- You can bring your own food
- Order catering and have it delivered
Alcohol
- You can bring any alcoholic drinks you want to have
- All the yachts have refrigeration to keep your drinks cold
- For your white wine or champagne, we offer ice buckets to keep chilled
- With notice, we can provide ice filled buckets for your beers
- Bar set-up available for mixed drinks
These are the most frequently asked questions about boating on the Bay. If you have more questions, please contact us directly by phone at 510-236-2633 or email.
Do I need a Captain?
Yes, we have a list of captains pre-approved by our insurance agency, which we can provide. Our charter fleet is exclusively operated as a skippered charter fleet with highly trained captains and crew for your safety and enjoyment.
How Should I Dress?
The weather on the Bay has many micro-climates. It’s best to dress in layers and bring along a warm jacket if the day is windy. Bring a hat and sunscreen. Wear boat shoes or soft-soled sport shoes for comfort and stability. Do not wear high heels or leather soled shoes.
Are children allowed?
Yes! This is always a special experience for kids, and we love sharing our passion for the water with them. They must wear a life vest during the charter, so if you have one, bring it along, or let us know and we can provide one.
What is on board the yachts?
The yachts are stocked with water, sodas, sparkling waters, and all the service wear you need (plates, napkins, utensils). The restrooms are stocked with soap, paper products, and hand towels. All the essentials are on board for your comfort and safety.
Should I charter for three or four hours?
Three hours gives you plenty of time to get out on San Francisco Bay and enjoy the yacht, but four hours gives you the fuller Bay experience and more flexibility in your route.
On our sailing yachts, four hours gives you more time to sail farther across the Bay, including the opportunity to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. It also gives your captain more flexibility to work with the wind, tide, and the places your group would most like to see without making the day feel rushed.
Power yachts can cover more distance in the same amount of time, so the best charter length also depends on the yacht you choose and what you want to do.
Your captain can help shape the route around the conditions and the kind of day you want.
How are the Skipper and Crew paid?
The skipper and crew are paid directly by you. Skipper rates range between $350 to $400 for half a day. Crew rates range between $125-$150 for half a day. Tips are optional but much appreciated!
Can I bring food and alcoholic beverages?
You are welcome to bring your own food and alcohol. We have a list of excellent caterers that deliver to the yachts and other onboard services that can be arranged, such as bar set and party decorations. Let us know and we can organize catering. We request that you do not bring red wine, as it stains.
Is there a sound system on board?
Yes! All our yachts have full sound systems and Bluetooth. Your phone or iPad can synch direclty witt the stereo on board to play your own music. There are speakers inside the yachts and in the cockpits.
Are there restrooms on board?
Yes, these are luxury yachts and have restrooms on board. The restrooms have all paper products, soap, handtowels and comfort items.
Where do we depart from?
We pick up from Jack London Marina in Oakland, where our main fleet is located permanently. We have a second location in Pt Richmond with yachts at Brickyard Cove Marina as another pick-up location.
Do you pick up at other locations?
We have pick-ups from other locations such as San Francisco, Sausalito, and Tiburon. These are dependent on dock availability and are at an additional cost.
Are children welcome on our yacht charters?
Yes. Children are welcome aboard, and we carry life jackets in sizes ranging down to infants. We also keep coloring books and kid-friendly drinks aboard for younger guests.
