Morning Sail in San Diego Bay: 2-Hour Catalina Cruise from America's Cup Harbor
Cut loose from Shelter Island for a two-hour morning sail through San Diego Bay. Small groups, complimentary drinks and flexible routes make this a relaxed way to see Point Loma, Coronado, the USS Midway and city skyline from the water.
The Experience
Before You Go
Call to confirm your departure time
Departure times vary; you must call Sail San Diego after booking to confirm the exact departure time.
Pick up your boarding pass in person
A physical boarding pass is required and available at the Sail San Diego office — check in at least 20 minutes before sailing.
Dress in layers
Morning temperatures on the water can be cool and windy; bring a light jacket even on warm days.
Plan for motion sensitivity
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative medication or use acupressure bands before departure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet lookout near the harbor entrance for low-angle shots of Point Loma cliffs
- •Glide past the small seal and bird hangouts off Harbor Island for wildlife viewing away from crowded piers
Wildlife
- •California sea lions
- •Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
The bay faces urban runoff and marine debris issues; operators encourage bringing reusable containers and staying a respectful distance from wildlife to minimize disturbance.
San Diego Bay has been a naval and commercial hub for centuries; from the Star of India’s sailing-era presence to the USS Midway’s aircraft-carrier era, the waterfront reflects layered maritime history.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow for skyline and low-water foregrounds
- • Midship looking aft toward Coronado and the naval base
- • Aft for wide-angle shots of downtown and the Embarcadero
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Clear morning sun and reflections from the water increase UV exposure, so bring broad-spectrum protection.
Windproof jacketEssential
A lightweight, packable jacket cuts the morning breeze and keeps you comfortable on deck.
Non-slip deck shoes or sneakersEssential
Secure footing matters on wet decks and when moving around a small sailboat.
Polarizing camera filter or sunglasses
A polarizer reduces glare and boosts contrast for crisper photos of the skyline and water reflections.
Common Questions
How long is the sail?
The cruise is two hours from boarding to return.
What are the minimum and maximum passenger counts?
Tours require a minimum of three passengers to run and are limited to six guests per boat.
Is there a restroom on board?
Yes — the Catalina sailboat used for this tour has an onboard restroom.
Are beverages included?
Complimentary light beer, hard seltzers, snacks and nonalcoholic drinks are provided; alcohol service is limited to guests 21+.
Do captains provide a guided commentary?
This is not a formal guided tour; captains do not give scripted commentary but will gladly answer questions about landmarks and sailing.
Can I make this a private charter?
Yes — purchasing all six tickets effectively reserves the boat for your group; contact the operator if booking separately to ensure you’re assigned to the same vessel.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
San Diego, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Low; accessible to most people comfortable with short periods of standing and climbing a small boarding ladder
Ready to Explore San Diego?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now