sailing tours santa barbara

• (850) 443-3819‬

Santa Barbara Channel Charters

Sailing charters out of beautiful santa barbara harbor, sailing in santa barbara.

Come out for a sail along the coast of Santa Barbara in the comfort and safety of Star Jasmine, a 31ʼ sailboat. Enjoy scenic views of the coastline, mountain ranges and the beautiful Channel Islands. Be ready to encounter all sorts of marine wildlife from sea birds to seals and sometimes dolphins and whales.

We offer morning, afternoon and sunset cruises. Just give us a call or email to inquire for bookings.

Pricing, Location and Contact

For charter inquiries and pricing, call (850) 443-3819‬ or submit the form below

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Welcome to the Santa Barbara Sailing Center

Double dolphin.

February 14th through May 15th. Join us as California Gray Whales journey through the channel on their Northern migration from Baja California to Alaska.

Year round. Enjoy a sunset sail while cruising along the American Riviera.

Set sail for a short harbor cruise where you will get a tour of the Santa Barbara Harbor & beyond. Admire local boats, Stearn's Wharf & an array of sea life.

Mid May through mid February. Enjoy an afternoon sail while cruising along the American Riviera.

Friday evenings, Memorial Day Weekend-Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy some of Santa Barbara's greatest bands as they perform live while you cruise along Santa Barbara's beautiful coastline.

March - October. Sip local wine or beer from a featured winery or brewery each month. Includes wine or beer tasting with a reusable Govino cup that you can take home. 21+ cruise.

December. Celebrate the holidays with a one-of-a-kind on the water parade of lights. Enjoy the exciting fireworks display from the Double Dolphin as we celebrate the excitement of the season.

February 14th. Kick off your Valentine evening of romance with a sunset cruise aboard the Double Dolphin. Includes Bottomless Champagne!

July 4th. Enjoy the fireworks on the water from the decks of the Double Dolphin as we celebrate our independence. Light appetizers included.

See all of our cruises on the Double Dolphin Catamaran!

Reserve and prepay for a single kayak, double kayak, or SUP rental.

Join the Kayak/SUP Camp for a full week of on the water fun

Join the Sail Camp for a full week of on the water fun

Join the Friday Youth Sailing Program September to May

THE 10 BEST Santa Barbara Boat Tours

Boat tours in santa barbara.

• Gear Rentals
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Captain Jack's Santa Barbara Tours

2. Celebration Cruises - Santa Barbara

3. Land and Sea Tours/ Land Shark

4. Channel Islands Expeditions

5. Condor Express Whale Watching

6. Santa Barbara Channel Charters

7. Santa Barbara Sailing Center

8. Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises & Whale Watching

9. Santa Barbara Parasail

10. Green Flash Charters

11. Santa Barbara Boat Charters

12. Western Gate Maritime LLC

13. Western Gull Charters - Day Tours

14. Captain Spencer

15. Sandala Experiences

16. Santa Barbara GURU

17. adventure boat charters, 18. sunswept sailing, what travelers are saying.

• Captain Jack's Santa Barbara Tours
• Condor Express Whale Watching
• Channel Islands Expeditions
• Land and Sea Tours/ Land Shark
• Santa Barbara Boat Charters
• Santa Barbara Channel Charters
• Celebration Cruises - Santa Barbara
• Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises & Whale Watching

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The Ultimate Guide to Sailing in Santa Barbara: Where to Sail & What to Bring

To us, nothing feels quite as refreshing as spending time in the ocean—especially if a sailboat is involved. The saltwater spray against your skin. The cool breeze on a hot day. The deep connection you form with nature. It’s the ultimate form of aloha . If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara soon and want to experience sailing for yourself, we’re here to help. Here’s our local guide for Sailing in Santa Barbara.

Where to Sail in Santa Barbara

Santa barbara harbor.

The most accessible to sail in Santa Barbara is just around the corner. With its calm waters and beautiful coastal scenery, it’s easy to see why Santa Barbara Harbor is such a popular sailing destination. The harbor is home to many marinas, where you can rent or charter a sailboat or catamaran, and there are also sailing schools that offer lessons for all skill levels. The harbor is also a great location for whale watching, and many tour companies offer sailing excursions specifically for this purpose. When you’re off the boat, grab a bite or cocktail at one of the area’s many seaside restaurants.

Goleta Beach

As a protected bay area with steady winds and a wide range of conditions, Goleta Beach has become a popular spot for sailing. You can find boat rentals, lessons, and storage at the beach’s sailing center, which is open year-round and offers a variety of classes for all skill levels. This beach is also home to the Goleta Beach Race, which is a collaboration between Santa Barbara Yacht Club and Santa Barbara Sailing. If you happen to be there when the race is happening, you can enjoy some BBQ on the beach while you watch the competition.

Channel Islands National Park

Sailing to the Channel Islands from Santa Barbara can be a beautiful and exciting experience—and it’s the most advanced route on this list. The Channel Islands are a group of eight islands located off the coast of California, and they are known for their rugged beauty and diverse wildlife.

The trip to the Channel Islands from Santa Barbara typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on the wind and sea conditions. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

It's important to note that the Channel Islands are a protected national park, which means you need to obtain a permit from the National Park Service before visiting. It's also important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding anchoring and mooring in the park.

Who to Sail With

Looking to rent a boat, hire a private charter, or take a lesson? Our friends recommend reaching out to the Sailing Barbara Sailing Center. Their team offers everything from group getaways to the Channel Islands to sailing school and sunset cruises. You can even sign up for a membership if you want to keep improving your skills and join the sailing community. A few other local options are SunSwept Sailing, Double Dolphin Cruises, and Santa Barbara Channel Charters. Take your pick and get out on the water.

The Best Time to Sail in Santa Barbara

The best time to sail in Santa Barbara, California depends on personal preferences and the type of sailing you plan to do. Generally, the best sailing conditions can be found from May through October. During this time, the weather is warmer, the winds are more consistent, and there is less chance of rain. The waters are also calmer, making it an ideal time for cruising and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

May through June is considered the shoulder season, the weather is generally mild, and the wind patterns are less consistent. July through September, the winds are generally light and variable, making it perfect for cruising, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. October through April is considered the off-season, winds are strong and more consistent, but the weather is colder, and there’s a higher chance of rain.

No matter when you decide to set sail, it's always a good idea to check the forecast and be prepared for any weather conditions that may arise.

What to Pack for a Sailing Trip

When packing for a sailing trip, it's important to consider the weather and the duration of the trip. Some essential items to pack include:

- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)

- Waterproof clothing (rain jacket, pants)

- Warm layers (fleece or sweater)

- Comfortable, non-slip shoes

- First aid kit and medications

- Snacks and water

- Personal flotation device

- Waterproof clothing and footwear

- Personal items and toiletries

- Camera or phone to capture memories

- Navigation tools such as a compass or GPS device

- A waterproof bag for storing electronics and other items

- A headlamp or flashlight for nighttime navigation

- Charts, guides, and other navigation materials

- A VHF radio or satellite phone for communication

- A multi-tool or knife

As far as comfortable, non-slip shoes go, we have you covered. For the guys, we’d recommend Maha , Maha ‘Olu , and Ulele styles. For the ladies, Puawe , Hila , and Ho‘ōpio are your best bet. All of these styles feature contoured footbeds for all-day comfort, Wet Grip Rubber for extra traction on deck, and water-resistant materials that are designed to float. You won’t find a better collection of sailing sandals.

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• Popular Cruise!

Santa Barbara Sunset Cruise

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 Hours
• Anchor Santa Barbara Sunset: See why Santa Barbara is called the American Riviera as you enjoy our spectacular sunsets from the water
• Wine Full Bar Onboard: Enjoy our full bar, featuring local Santa Barbara wines, craft beer selection, and a full cocktail menu as well as chips, snacks and candy. We accept credit & debit cards only, no cash.
• Cruise Ship Main Deck Tickets : Indoor booth style tables and outdoor padded bench seating available (does not include access to upper deck)
• Ticket First Class Upper Deck Tickets : Exclusive access to roof deck. Featuring seat-back seating and padded bench seating in front of the captain's wheelhouse. (First Class tickets permitted for 13 years & up only).
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Unfortunately, our boats do not accommodate wheelchairs or mobility assistance devices. Due to the various levels with ramps, steps, and thresholds, it may be unsuitable for some people with atypical mobility. With loading and unloading passengers from an open ocean pier (Stearns Wharf), we are unable to board passengers that have injuries, and require assistance from others or any special equipment. This is for their safety and the safety of others.
• Cancellation Policy : Refunds are available for cancellations that are made up to 48 hours before the scheduled departure time (subject to -10% cancellation fee, online booking fees are not returned). Refunds are not available for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the scheduled departure time. There are no refunds or rebooking for late arrival/no-show, including unused tickets.
• Map Marker Azure Seas Departure Location: 237 Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara. There is limited paid parking available on the wharf and additional lots available along Cabrillo Blvd. Plan ahead, check-in time is 15 minutes prior to departure. Boat departs on time and does not wait for those who have not checked in early. Don't miss the boat!

The Best View of Santa Barbara is From the Water

Experience the breathtaking Santa Barbara sunset like never before aboard the Azure Seas, our 70’ luxury yacht! Departing from the iconic Stearns Wharf, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing golden hour on the water—the perfect setting for Santa Barbara’s stunning sunsets.

Indulge in the beauty of this moment whether you’re seeking a romantic cruise or a memorable gathering with friends, colleagues, or family. Azure Seas offers various seating options, from cozy indoor salon booths to a rooftop deck for our First Class guests, and lower deck seating on the bow. No matter where you settle, the captivating Santa Barbara coastline, where the Santa Ynez mountains meet the sea, will steal your heart.

Feeling thirsty while taking in these mesmerizing sights? Our full bar has you covered with signature cocktails, local beers, renowned Santa Barbara wines, and more. Join us aboard Azure Seas for a magical journey and discover why Santa Barbara’s sunsets are truly unparalleled.

Our Santa Barbara Sunset Cruises vary in time based on the season, with departures between 3 PM and 7 PM. Check our cruise calendar for daily departure details.

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Santa Barbara Coastal Cruise

The “Santa Barbara Special” is the one-hour daytime cruise on Azure Seas.

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Where to Book Sailing & Boat Tours in Santa Barbara

Booking Boat and Sailing Tours in Santa Barbara

Ready to hoist the sails and set out for adventure? Santa Barbara, with its sun-soaked shores and calm sea breezes, is the perfect playground for travelers like you to explore the ocean. But with so many boat and sailing tour companies to choose from, how do you know which one will make your maritime dreams a reality? We’ve got you covered!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top tour companies in Santa Barbara for sailing.

Santa Barbara Sailing Center

First up: Santa Barbara Sailing Center . This is your one-stop shop for all things sailing and sea adventures. Offering everything from sunset sails to whale-watching expeditions, this full-service outfitter has something for everyone. They also run charter boats with private captains, plus packages that include prepared meals while you’re out at sea!

What’s even better is that this company offers lessons on how to sail. That means you can take classes to become certified to sail on your own . The price and length of each course varies and will depend on your skill. But this is a great way to take on a new skill and become an expert sailor! Check out their calendar for more information on dates and prices.

This is a cool opportunity for travelers staying in Santa Barbara for an extended time!

Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises

Looking to impress a date or win over your new crush? Look no further than Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises . With their intimate sunset sails and private charters, you and yours can watch the sun dip below the horizon in style. Rethink date night with a night on the high seas!

Traveling solo? We recommend gathering fellow travelers and taking a small crew out on one of these private charters for a day you’ll always remember. This company also runs charters out to the Channel Islands , which is just another way to experience one of the gems of Southern California!

Celebration Cruises Santa Barbara

Looking for a more budget-friendly option? This is the company for you! Celebration Cruises Santa Barbara offers a nice variety of cruise options, many of which are reasonably priced. Whether it’s a sunset cruise or a quick hour-long jaunt on the ocean, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day ideas for you and your date, they’ve got you covered there, too! Check out their website for more information on prices and available time slots for February 14th.

Condor Express Whale Watching

Whale-watching is one of those activities that people travel across the globe to experience. The beautiful thing is that Santa Barbara has plenty of it right in its backyard!

At Condor Express Whale Watching , you can get out and see some of nature’s greatest wonders. With a staff full of expert naturalists who will guide you on an unforgettable journey through the Santa Barbara Channel, Condor Express Whale Watching is one of the area’s best.

Boat tours typically run for 4 & 1/2 hours, and start around $125. Keep up on their calendar for up-to-date information on times and prices. It’s a wildlife adventure you won’t soon forget!

Santa Barbara Adventure Company

This is the mecca for outdoor adventurers. From paddle-boarding and kayak rentals to private and group sailing tours, Santa Barbara Adventure Company has it all. Try your hand at snorkeling or surfing, while you’re at it! This company also offers excursions out to the Channel Islands , which is a must-do for anyone visiting Santa Barbara.

Prices range for different activities, so make sure to scope around their website for extra information. And with their knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll be in for an epic day of exploration and discovery.

Want to see what it’s like to sail to the Channel Islands? Watch this video!

Gear Up and Get Ready to Set Sail!

Now that you know where to find the best boat and sailing tours in Santa Barbara, all that’s left to do is gear up and get ready for your next aquatic adventure. Enjoying Santa Barbara means taking to the sea and exploring all of its wonderful natural beauties.

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The condor express in santa barbara has been creating amazing whale watching experiences for  over 35 years. come aboard for the experience of a lifetime, condor musical cruises.

Whale Watching at the Whale Heritage Site

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Meet the array of wildlife you could see while out on the open ocean.

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PRIVATE CHARTERS

Looking for your own personal adventure? Book your own private whale watch, celebration of life, or party cruise!

CHECKOUT OUR GALLEY

We're one of the only whales watching boats along California's coast that has a full galley with breakfast, lunch , and beverage options. If you forget to grab a bite to eat before your trip, no worries, we've got you covered! Check it out below.

OUR DEDICATED CREW

HIROKO OWNER

DAVE  CAPTAIN

DEVIN  CAPTAIN

KELLY CREW 

Samantha crew, bob photographer.

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THE CONDOR EXPRESS

71-foot-long, 26.5-foot-wide, quad-jet-powered catamaran capable of cruising at 28+ knots

Powered by four BRAND NEW, low emission, 700 hp Scania Diesel engines. 

Twin wave piercing hulls, feature a modified hydrofoil wing that produces an extremely smooth and stable ride. 

U.S. Coast Guard certified and insured to carry up to 127 passengers

Features a large and luxurious teak-paneled cabin. Expansive windows allow viewing from inside the cabin, seating for ~60 persons, and 2  Large  plasma screen TV's allow passengers to see boats  location  throughout the channel.

Full galley with breakfast and lunch menu. 

Complete bar with adult drinks such as cocktails, beer, and wine. 

Upper sundeck seating offers unobstructed animal viewing and sight seeing

Huge raised bow allows passengers a up-close look at the wildlife=, specifically the dolphins! Be sure to look down when hanging out on the bow, common dolphins love to bow ride!

Three full-size rest rooms aboard

High-tech Bose audio system projects captain's voice throughout the  entirety of the boat. 

A large aftdeck provides lots of room for dancing to a DJ or a live band. There is plenty of space for passengers, or educators and researchers to work