Drive your own mini speed boat on a narrated 13-mile tour of San Diego Bay
2 Hours
Speed boat, Life jacket, Guide
Pilot your own F13 mini speed boat on a fully narrated 13-mile tour of San Diego Bay. Take in views of Navy ships, the USS Midway, Coronado Bridge, Star of India, Seaport Village, and the downtown skyline while spotting harbor wildlife.
Drivers must be 18; minors must ride with a parent or guardian. Recommended minimum age is 5 (younger children may ride only in calm conditions). Combined weight per boat max 450 lbs; not suitable for pregnancy or neck/back issues.
How old do you have to be to drive?
Drivers must be 18 years old in San Diego.
Are children under 5 allowed?
Children under 5 may ride only when water is calm and they can hold on; otherwise they are not permitted.
Is there a weight limit?
The total combined weight per boat must not exceed 450 lbs.
Can we switch drivers?
Yes. There are stops along the tour where you can switch drivers.
What if I have never driven a boat?
Boats are easy to operate, and you will receive an orientation before departure with guides to assist.
Tours may be canceled by the operator due to weather up to departure. If the seller cancels before departure, you may reschedule or receive a refund. If a tour is cut short due to severe weather, rainchecks are provided. After departure, full refunds are not available.
Cabrillo Isle Marina - 1450 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Discover what we've curated for you
This tour gets travelers genuinely pumped up, and it's easy to see why. You're not just sitting back watching San Diego go by – you actually get to drive your own speedboat while following a guide around the harbor. The boats are surprisingly fast and maneuverable, and riding the waves adds an extra thrill that some find a bit jarring at first but quickly get used to. The two-hour experience lets you see iconic landmarks like the USS Midway from a completely different perspective on the water. The guides, particularly David and Nate, earn consistent praise for making the experience special. David, a local Navy veteran, brings energy, humor, and deep knowledge about the harbor, wildlife, and naval ships. The instructors give clear directions without being overbearing, letting you enjoy the freedom of controlling your boat while keeping everyone safe. Even nervous first-timers report gaining confidence quickly and having a blast. Many visitors call it the highlight of their San Diego trip, with the mix of high-action fun and informative touring creating something memorable enough that people are already planning return visits.
The speed boat activity is SO FUN! David is a great guide and gave us clear instructions while allowing us to enjoy the boats on the water. The boats go quite fast and it's so fun to speed on the open water in the harbor. You can also see lots of landmarks such as the USS Midway from the perspective of being in the water.
Andrew
January 29, 2026
The speed boat activity is SO FUN! David is a great guide and gave us clear instructions while allowing us to enjoy the boats on the water. The boats go quite fast and it's so fun to speed on the open water in the harbor. You can also see lots of landmarks such as the USS Midway from the perspective of being in the water.
Andrew
January 29, 2026