If you’re heading to San Diego, spend as much time near the water as possible. (You can even stay on the water, if you play your cards right, from Airbnb rentals to family resorts.
San Diego Bay runs for twelve miles and stretches up to three miles wide in certain parts. It’s dwarfed only by San Francisco Bay and Humboldt Bay in northern California. It’s home to the Port of San Diego, along with iconic spots like the USS Midway Museum and shopping areas like Portside Pier and Seaport Village.
Many oceanfront locations are on San Diego’s famous Embarcadero, including those mentioned above. The pathway winds almost two miles along the coast, giving you plenty to do. There are also events scheduled year-round along the Embarcadero, from shows at Rady Shell to the famous Big Bay Boom 4th of July celebration.
But you might also want to get out on the water, whether on a sailboat, a cruise, or a short excursion on a speedboat. Here’s what you can’t miss when it comes to sailing tours and boat tours in San Diego.
13 boat tours in San Diego to check out
San Diego Harbor Cruise
This affordable, straightforward tour takes you around San Diego’s scenic harbor and Coronado Bridge, offering skyline views and narration. You can choose between one or two-hour tours for added flexibility. Just keep in mind that this is a large ship where you can expect a crowd.
Harbor Cruise on a Large Catamaran
If you prefer sailing, you can also take an affordable harbor cruise on San Diego’s largest catamaran. You’ll be able to check off some of the city’s coolest landmarks from the water while you enjoy the full bar onboard. Drinks are available for purchase throughout the journey.
San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise
Take to the seas at night, then head to the deck where you’ll be seated for dinner service. Your meal comes with one free cocktail and live entertainment as you cruise along 25 miles of Californian coast. Once again, expect sweeping skyline views that glitter under the starry sky. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can request a special treat from the staff.
Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
Looking for a classic boozy brunch experience? San Diego offers that in cruise form. This experience comes with a sit-down brunch meal that includes bottomless champagne—or sparkling cider, if that’s your preference. After brunch, you can wander to the deck to take in the sights and the sea breeze. If the City Cruises option (linked above) doesn’t suit your needs, you can also check out this alternative champagne buffet brunch cruise from Flagship Cruises.
Glow Electric Boat Date Night Experience
This unique date night experience includes a one-hour cruise around San Diego Bay at night. The vessel is small and brightly lit, giving you a unique setting to enjoy the views—and the music, as this boat comes with a stereo system. While it’s great for date night, you can also bring up to four adults and a small child, so long as the total weight is under 650 pounds.
San Salvador Spanish Galleon Adventure
Is there a cooler way to experience San Diego than by cruising the harbor in an actual 1542 Spanish Galleon replica? This four-hour sailing trip gives you a dash of history, along with sweeping views of San Diego. While you sail, you’ll get to learn about the history of the ship and how it impacted the founding of San Diego.
Gondola Cruise through Coronado Cays
If you can’t swing a trip to Venice, you can always enjoy a gondola ride in San Diego. This tour is run by the Gondola Company, which offers a slow journey through the Coronado Cay canals. You get to see the Coronado, San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, and more as you weave miles through the canals.
Whale-watching on a Luxury Vessel
With air-conditioning, indoor seating, and a comfortable bathroom, this whale-watching and dolphin-watching tour is about as luxurious as it gets. There are even stabilizers that help maintain a smooth ride, even in choppy waters. All you need to do is kick back while the captain and crew head for San Diego’s prime whale-watching waters.
San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride
If you prefer speed to slow journeys, don’t miss the San Diego jet boat ride. It’s fast, includes power slides, 360-degree spins, and ‘other high-octane maneuvers’. For the young at heart—and anyone who is resistant to seasickness.
San Diego Seal Tour
The San Diego Seal Tour is offered on an ‘amphibious’ vessel, meaning you’ll start the tour driving on four wheels before transitioning into the water for a cruise around San Diego Bay. It’s fun for people of all ages, and also comes with a short narration that teaches you about the city.
Sunset Sail
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic sunset sail adventure. This tour takes you out onto the water as the sun begins to set, offering some of the best views of the city at golden hour—and a gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean as the sun sinks into the horizon. This is a sailing yacht tour that maxes out at six people, guaranteeing an intimate experience.
Small Group Afternoon Sailing Excursion
Step aboard a Catalina-style boat in a small group that maxes out at six. From there, you’ll sail around San Diego Harbor as you spot the sights, from the USS Midway to Coronado Bridge. The tour comes with a complimentary beer or hard seltzer, along with snacks.
Small Group Catamaran Cruise with Drinks
This 2.5-hour tour takes you around San Diego Bay with a small group and comes with a free drink—your choice of wine, beer, or a soft drink. You can enjoy sweeping views of the skyline, along with potential dolphin and seal sightings.