10 Best Yacht Charters In California, USA - Updated 2025

Cristina
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

Renowned for its beaches, stunning shorelines, scenic drives, and gorgeous sunsets, California—"the Golden State"—is a top yachting spot and attraction not just in North America but also the world. There’s California Delta that boasts over a thousand miles of waterways for explorations and adventures. There’s also Shasta Lake that features a lot of views, water-based activities, and fishing opportunities. You can sail to Catalina Island, which offers a lot of family-friendly and group activities. Folsom Lake is an awesome recreation area that is perfect for camping and other summer outings. These are just some of the most renowned areas in California that you can tour. Naturally, there are dozens more—even hundreds more—opportunities, attractions, and destinations available, as well as a lot of yacht charters to choose from. But if you’re looking for the best ways to discover the state’s wonders, book a yacht charter and go sailing. Scroll down and check out some of the best yacht charters in California, USA.

Popular marinas in California

  • Marina Del Rey Marina: Situated in the city of Marina Del Rey, and bordered by Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean, this marina is the perfect spot to relax and recharge. Monthly and annual dockages are available at the slips, and they even offer dockside shuttles and laundry services for customers.

  • San Francisco Marina Yacht Harbor: It is the oldest recreational marina operating in the city. Guest berthing slips are available at the marina, however, according to CBS News the rates might be hiked in the near future, so plan accordingly!

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 25, 2025.

1. Elegant yacht for large groups in San Francisco (from USD 299)

For a party of six to twelve people looking for a few days of sailing, this private yacht charter in California is a great choice. It offers three bedrooms with five beds and a bathroom, a full kitchen, and free Wi-Fi access. You will have access to the entire boat and can plan multiple days of overnight stays while exploring Oakland or San Francisco.

The operators even offer partial day charters of around three hours each, however, you will have to book the rental outside of Airbnb.

Stayed at this property?
California, United States

134.67 km (83.7 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
20 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 5 Beds 12 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 12

Top guest reviews
Host:
edgar was a great host patient and happy to help
edgar was a very gracious host as well
edgar is a really friendly and helpful host
edgar was a cool host and communicating with him was easy
very friendly and accommodating host definitely will come back
Location:
so many great dining choices within walking distance
it's location is central to a lot of the popular sight seeing & restaurants
nice layout great location and view
Cleanliness:
well appointed clean perfect get a way
Amenities & Room:
edgar does have direct tv which is nice
we had some problems with the bathroom nice opportunity to learn about boatlife
the master bedroom has an extremely comfortable mattress
Read more reviews

2. Pretty yacht with a dedicated workspace in Avalon

Specifically designed for an overnight on Catalina Island or a three-day private charter, which includes activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing, this 45-foot (13.7-meter) yacht comes with its own certified captain. You will have access to the entire boat, which has two bedrooms: one with two queen-sized beds and one with two bunk beds. The rental also has a fully functional kitchen with appliances, a dedicated workspace, and a TV and sound system for small events.

Stayed at this property?
Avalon, California, United States

488.56 km (303.6 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
74 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 6 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Host:
ralph is an amazing host
ralph is a wonderful host
he is an amazing and gracious host
we found the crew friendly and welcoming our trip went as expected and i would use them again
very accommodating awesome boat with everything you need to have an awesome time
Cleanliness:
the beds were super clean and spacious
the boat was clean and we felt spread out
Amenities & Room:
i would also recommend a lantern for in the bathroom for extra light
Read more reviews

3. Sloop offering a haven of relaxation in Eureka (from USD 100)

Embark on an enchanting sea journey aboard this cheap boat rental in California, where elegance meets comfort. Moored in a tranquil marina, this sloop offers a haven of relaxation, with its luxurious queen bed and snug sofas. The interior, a symphony of mahogany and a fully-equipped galley, radiates warmth. Imagine sipping cocktails in the cockpit, caressed by the sea breeze, eyes feasting on the bay’s beauty.

Steps away, land-based amenities await. Nearby dining and bars enrich your maritime adventure, transcending mere accommodation to become an immersive nautical escapade.

Stayed at this property?
Eureka, California, United States

505.28 km (314.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
634 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
everybody we encountered at the marina were so friendly and helpful
the hosts we're incredibly nice accommodating and experienced
very comfortable and great hosts
very graciously knowledgeable and friendly
great space amazing hosts highly recommended
Location:
lovely stay great location super fun
what a fun unique place to stay
great unique place to stay and very comfortable
we had an amazing time it’s in a safe location and truly serene
the location was perfect and the boat size was just right for 2 people
Cleanliness:
clean safe parking & fun experience
very clean living space with a tea tree oil diffuser that made the ship smell wonderful
the cabin was cozy and clean
tight quarters but very clean and well equipped
the boat is clean and in a great location
Amenities & Room:
more amenities than you'd think and enough room for two people to exist comfortably
the cabin was very beautiful and the bed was extremely comfortable
Read more reviews

4. Lavish yacht in marina in Stockton (from USD 132)

Have a taste of the life of the rich and famous by staying in this luxurious yacht in San Joaquin Delta in Stockton. This yacht is not available for charter. It is a fun place to stay after exploring the beautiful city and trying out is local offerings. It features two cozy bedrooms, two private bathrooms, a functional kitchen, a laptop-friendly work space, a patio, and more. Imagine enjoying some cold beers while staring up at the starry skies. Not to mention, the marina is filled with excellent restaurants and local shops. Plus, fishing equipment and kayak boats are available for guest’s use.

Stayed at this property?
Stockton, California, United States

160.82 km (100.0 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
139 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Boat 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
wendy is a great host
wendy is a wonderful host
wendy was a great host and the yacht is beautiful
the host was friendly available for any questions and just a a1 host
the owner wendy was very friendly and helpful
Location:
the location is ideal both quiet and lively
cool nights close access to bar and restaurant
easy walk to dinner at garlic brothers and breakfast at bob's
the location was beautiful and it was very quiet
i cant wait to stay at this location again thank you wendy
Cleanliness:
well maintained and very clean
everything was clean and beautiful and wendy was great with communication prior and during trip
wendy's accommodations were clean accurately described and quiet
great luxury yacht super clean and modern
the yacht was clean n just amazing
Amenities & Room:
excellent shower/bath air conditioning comfortable beds
wifi was pretty slow and cell service (verizon) was kinda limited (remote workers beware)
the beautiful and luxurious 46 foot yacht was comfortable and well equipped
it was comfortable and had everything we needed
the bed was super comfortable
Read more reviews

California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

5. Lovely yacht for team building activities in San Francisco (from USD 1995)

Typically docked at Brisbane Marina or optionally at Pier 40 in San Francisco, this 2,400-square foot (223-square meter) yacht rental in California, called “The Morning Mist”, is excellent for team building activities of a company. Many guests opt to use it as a dockside bed and breakfast or take it for a day cruise. The boat provides five bedrooms that can easily host nine people, as well as five bathrooms, four of which are full baths.

The owner offers a three-day cruise that can take you all the way to the Sacramento River.

Stayed at this property?
Brisbane, California, United States

124.6 km (77.5 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
house boat 9 Guests 5 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms

6. Spectacular yacht with a kitchen in Pebble Beach (from USD 6071)

When it comes to luxury, you can’t go wrong with this spectacular 3,000-square foot (279-square meter), three-level floating villa. The luxury yacht charter in California comes with seven bedrooms, seven full baths and a half bath, a kitchen, a living room, and deck or patio spaces, so that’s four guest suites each with its own bath, a king-sized bed, two queen-sized beds, and two twin beds. It can comfortably host 12 guests.

The boat is so huge, in fact, that it is fully staffed with a captain, a first mate, and a chef, which also means all food is included, not to mention unlimited use of jet skis, a hot tub, and a 14-foot (4.3-meter) tender.

Stayed at this property?
Pebble Beach, California, United States

6.96 km (4.4 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
house boat 12 Guests 7 Bedrooms 8 Bathrooms

7. Quaint sailboat in Marina del Rey

Embark on an enchanting voyage, nestling in a quaint sailboat cradled by Venice Beach’s gentle waves and Santa Monica’s serene shores. Ideal for lone explorers or duos, this haven twinkles under starry skies, offering a peaceful respite. Within, discover a compact yet cleverly designed interior, featuring dual queen beds and additional sofa sleepers for a blissful slumber. Despite its modest size, the boat brims with thoughtful amenities: a workspace, air purifier, and warm lighting.

Step out to soak in pristine coastal vistas or relax with cable TV. While onboard cooking remains elusive, nearby gastronomic delights await exploration. A short stroll away, find off-board facilities with steamy showers, amplifying your nautical adventure’s comfort.

Stayed at this property?
Marina del Rey, California, United States

428.99 km (266.6 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
141 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 4 Beds 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host is very friendly and accommodating
Location:
super close to everything
the location was super convenient
wonderful unique place in a beautiful location at a great price very central and close to restaurants and bars
an absolute perfect location to unwind and relax
close to variety of restaurants and bars you can easily walk to as well
Cleanliness:
the bathroom and showers on the dock were sparkling clean and easily accessible
the marina facilities are beautiful and super clean
the facilities were clean and close to the slip
the place is clean offer nice views and convenient location
Amenities & Room:
it was great to have all the extra amenities like a/c and tvs with internet and wifi
plenty of room to enjoy a movie on the tv without being all over each other
Read more reviews

8. Comfortable motor yacht with kayaks in Oakland

Docked under 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) from Downtown Oakland, “Silver” is a 36-foot (11-meter) motor yacht that is fully equipped for a memorable cruise in and around the area, be it Quinn’s Lighthouse, the gardens of Embarcadero Cove Marina, or even the streets of Alameda themselves.

The sailboat offers two bedrooms with two beds—a king-sized bed in the first bedroom and a queen-sized bed in the second one—and a bathroom, which make it perfect for long stays for a couple of guests or day trips with a few friends. Moreover, kayaks come free of charge.

Stayed at this property?
Oakland, California, United States

132.94 km (82.7 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
623 reviews  
Boat 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Host:
great host would recommend him to anybody
shaun was a great host
shaun was a great host
shaun was a great host
host was great in letting us in even though we were a bit late
Location:
the location is super close to sf just about a 20 min drive
it’s location was perfect
nice little boat located at a quiet marina close to downtown oakland
it was so very cute and very nice location
great location with access to the heart of oakland
Cleanliness:
clean up was still going on when we left
everything in the cabin worked well and it was well cleaned before my arrival
it wasn’t sparkling clean but we did have a peaceful night on the water
it was clean great view awesome hospitality/communication
felt totally comfort staying and i am big on cleanliness
Amenities & Room:
the beds are comfortable and the sunset/sunrise view is spectacular
wifi worked great and going to sleep and waking up on the water was truly peaceful
shaun was great and even helped out with sharing his own private wifi network
Read more reviews

9. Gorgeous sailboat for six in Oxnard

If you’re looking for day trips to Channel Islands for up to six people, then this yacht charter is the perfect candidate. The 50-foot (15.2-meter) motor yacht features one bedroom and a bathroom, a kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. The operator offers overnight stays, which will be spent docked or anchored in your destination.

The boat has been on Coastal Living magazine’s best AirBnB locations on the water, so you’re sure that the experience will be worth it.

Stayed at this property?
Oxnard, California, United States

365.42 km (227.1 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
37 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
karen was a great host
wonderful experience with karen my host
karen was really great host she make sure we feel comfortable
karen's also a great host
karen is an exceptional host and took care of every detail
Location:
the location is great bc we had easy access to carmel monterey airport and salinas
Cleanliness:
the beds are clean & comfortable
it's comfortable clean and just truly amazing
the property was very clean well decorated and maintained and very much appeared as advertised
the meridian is luxury nice and clean
the boat looks modern and is very clean inside
Amenities & Room:
it's very cozy and very relaxing with all the comforts of home
the place was great for us 2 plenty of room in the cabin and outside
loved the peacefulness of our surroundings and the beds were amazingly soft
then sunday morning we indulged in her special yogurt breakfast bar with all the various fun toppings
Read more reviews

10. Seafarer Yacht in San Francisco Bay

Experience a unique vacation on the 31-ft (9.45-m) Seafarer Yacht that can be moored or anchored wherever you want. This yacht charter in San Francisco Bay promises an unforgettable experience. It offers a basic kitchen complete with a microwave and refrigerator, allowing for convenient snack preparation. Cook delicious meals and savor them on the deck with gorgeous water views.

Stay connected with accessible internet, ensuring you remain in touch with loved ones and play your favorite music. A gas heater keeps the chill at bay, ensuring comfort. Small pets are welcome aboard, making it a delightful experience. Just remember to bring your own sheets or sleeping bags.

Stayed at this property?
Sausalito, California, United States

147.4 km (91.6 mi) from Monterey Bay Aquarium
69 reviews   Wifi Available
Boat 4 Beds 1 Guest 1 Bedroom 0 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 1

Top guest reviews
Host:
jon was a great host and considerate host
the host is extremely nice
jon was a great and flexible host
jon was a great host
otherwise a great host and a great experience
Location:
berkeley marina was nice quiet and secure but would like to try the sausalito marina sometime
they even have homemade tortillas station it was delicious i would recommend staying here
Cleanliness:
jon's boat was clean and the bed more than accommodated me (i'm 6'5")
Amenities & Room:
stunning sunsets and sunrises and very comfortable sleep
amenities are simple but there's everything needed to be comfortable
comfortable nights sleep dry boat (it was pouring outside) and nice guy :)
what a unique and wonderful experience jon's boat was super cozy charming and had wonderful amenities
Read more reviews

"The Golden State" awaits

There are definitely a lot of well-known yachting spots in and around California, so finding the perfect sailboat to charter can be a chore. This list of the best yacht charters will be a good starter, and it offers everything from romantic retreats for couples to luxury yachts for large groups of people.

Frequently asked questions about the best yacht charters in California, USA

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History

Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Cristina, a writer, English trainer, and lifelong learner, began her journey into web content writing in 2009. She has also delved into the creation of e-learning materials and currently engaged in...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Register Here
0 Comments
Good things are meant to be shared!