The San Francisco Bay offers exceptional sailing opportunities, but a successful charter requires more than just a well-equipped vessel. Modern Sailing provides members with a comprehensive suite of resources and enhancements designed to optimize every charter. This article details the valuable tools available, ensuring a more informed and enjoyable experience on the Bay.
1. Check Real-Time Bay Conditions at your fingertips
Accurate weather and tidal information is crucial for safe and efficient charter planning. Modern Sailing now features live Ventusky and San Francisco Tides widgets directly on our homepage. Visit www.modernsailing.com and scroll down to the bottom of the page and you can view the real-time bay forecast for wind speed and the San Francisco Tides today (measured at the Golden Gate Bridge). Our MSC office teams will also have tide books available for you analogophiles to keep in your gear bag for the annual tide forecasts.
2. Modern Sailing's Member Resources Page offers a curated selection of tools and information for chartering.
Preparing for a charter should be a seamless and enjoyable experience. We've compiled an online library to ensure just that. Our local cruising guides empower you to navigate the San Francisco Bay with confidence. To streamline your pre-departure preparations, our comprehensive planning tools are readily available. Understanding the Bay's unique navigational challenges is essential, and our insights and sailing tips are designed to enhance your mastery of these waters. Furthermore, acquainting yourself with our fleet and equipment through our guides will contribute to a smooth and efficient charter.
To access our Member Resources, simply find the "Quick Links" - usually found to the right of any Modern Sailing webpage. You will be taken to the Member Resources search options. You can click on the "Search by Category" for a dropdown of our article and resource topics. If you want to search for a keyword, you can choose that next to this option. Or, you can simply find the keyword "Search text" prompt at the top right of any webpage. Less is more when filtering a topic name. For example, when look for "in-mast roller furling" tips, simply search "furl" and this will pull up a list of articles and Modern Sailing webpages with that topic. Take it for a spin, and let us know if you have any questions, comments, or feedback on what you'd like to see addressed in future Member Resource articles.
3. Charter Resources - from Dock to Destination, these Resources will Transform your Sailing Adventures
Enhance your charter with these convenient resources:
- Angel Island Docking Pass (Limited Availability): Experience the convenience of priority docking at Angel Island, a coveted destination for San Francisco Bay sailors. This limited-availability (one pass available in our MSC Sausalito office) ensures you can effortlessly access the island's hiking trails, historical landmarks, and scenic picnic spots, maximizing your time for exploration and relaxation. Request pass access when you book your charter reservation and get to the office when we open by 9:00am as this is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pro tip from our Angel Island Club Skippers - get to Ayala Cove early to avoid potential wait times (one boat docks at a time) to make the most of your Angel Island adventure. Read more...
- Corinthian Yacht Club Guest Pass (Charter Arrival Only): Arrive by water at the Corinthian Yacht Club, with stunning views of the picturesque entrance to Raccoon Strait. This guest pass grants you reciprocal access to the club's exclusive facilities, including its elegant clubhouse, guest docks, and moorings. Enjoy a spectacular dining experience, relax with stunning waterfront views, and immerse yourself in the club's rich sailing heritage. This pass is valid for charter arrivals donning the MSC burgee only, adding a touch of luxury to your Bay voyage. Read more....
- Mooring Kit (Extended Lines): Anchor with confidence and ease in San Francisco Bay's diverse conditions. Our mooring kit, equipped with extended lines, provides the flexibility and security needed for comfortable overnight stays or extended anchoring. Navigate varying depths and currents with peace of mind, knowing you have the right equipment for a secure and stable mooring. Ideal for exploring secluded coves or enjoying a tranquil night under the stars. Read Angel Island Dock & Moor.
- BBQ Add-On: Enhance your day sail with our optional BBQ grill rental. Our team will ensure the BBQ is securely attached to your boat's handrails before departure, allowing you to focus on enjoying the Bay's beauty. Simply bring your own propane canister (available for purchase in our office) and prepare for an unforgettable al fresco dining experience on the water. Read Choosing the Right Boat for Your Charter.
- Dockside Orientation: To ensure a comfortable and confident charter experience, Modern Sailing offers complimentary Dockside Briefings. These personalized walk-throughs, conducted by our knowledgeable team, familiarizes you with your chosen boat's unique features and operation, minimizing any potential learning curve. These may include boats with in-mast furling, boats rigged for racing like Wimm, Sausalito’s Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 or the Premium Sportboats (J/88, J/99) or the J/105s, or our blue water cruiser, Coho II, Spencer 1330. Read more…
Questions on how to reserve one of these Charter Resources? You can add a note requesting these items when you book your boat online. When you've booked your charter, you can call the office at 415-331-8250 and one of our MSC office crew will add the resource to your booking. Please note the BBQ add-on will be charged the day of your charter. The other resources are complimentary, but may incur a fee if the Angel Island docking or CYC guest passes are lost or not returned.
