Learn essential sailing skills in a personalized session guided by a USCG-certified captain.
3 hrs
Up to 6 people
Private lesson, Certified captain
Feel the thrill of harnessing the wind on a private 3-hour lesson led by a USCG-certified captain. Progress at your own pace as you master essential skills and terminology.
No smoking, hard alcohol, red wine or drugs are allowed onboard. All guests must sign a digital waiver and check in 20–30 minutes before departure.
Reservations are refundable if you cancel at least 72 hours before departure. The captain may cancel or reschedule the lesson in unsafe weather; if Sail San Diego cancels, you may choose store credit or a full refund.
2720 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California 92106
Sail San Diego delivers consistently exceptional experiences on the water, earning praise from virtually everyone who steps aboard. The company runs intimate sails with a maximum of six guests, creating a personalized atmosphere that feels more like sailing with a knowledgeable friend than a commercial tour. Multiple experienced captains rotate through the fleet—including Greg, Dave, Stu, Rich, and Frank—and guests rave about their sailing expertise, local knowledge, and genuine personalities. The booking process is refreshingly smooth from start to finish. Staff make thoughtful touches like calling ahead with details, coordinating food pickups from nearby restaurants, and greeting guests warmly at the dock. On the water, captains skillfully handle everything from gusty conditions to relaxed sunset cruises while pointing out landmarks and answering questions. Many reviewers highlight spotting dolphins and enjoying spectacular skyline views. The boats themselves are clean and well-equipped, with some captains providing music, snacks, and drinks. Whether you choose a midday harbor sail or sunset cruise, expect a relaxing yet engaging experience that consistently ranks as a trip highlight.
Booked a private sunset sail with Sail San Diego and didn’t know at all what to expect as it was a first time experience. Everyone was awesome and really made the extra effort to make our evening great. Easy to book online, emails to verify and remind of the upcoming reservation. I called to inquire about parking and they were super friendly and informative about the area. When we arrived, we were greeted by very friendly staff who made us feel very welcome and comfortable and gave easy directions to the pier. Captain Stu was great and clearly a professional who made our sail very fun and memorable. The whole process from start to finish was an awesome and I would highly recommend this company. From reception to dock staff to Captain Stu, everyone made our trip a great experience. Thank you all.
Jared
October 4, 2025
Booked a private sunset sail with Sail San Diego and didn’t know at all what to expect as it was a first time experience. Everyone was awesome and really made the extra effort to make our evening great. Easy to book online, emails to verify and remind of the upcoming reservation. I called to inquire about parking and they were super friendly and informative about the area. When we arrived, we were greeted by very friendly staff who made us feel very welcome and comfortable and gave easy directions to the pier. Captain Stu was great and clearly a professional who made our sail very fun and memorable. The whole process from start to finish was an awesome and I would highly recommend this company. From reception to dock staff to Captain Stu, everyone made our trip a great experience. Thank you all.
Jared
October 4, 2025