Step aboard Big Betty, a beautifully restored 1996 Bayliner 3988 Motor Yacht (refit in 2025) departing from Oakland, and enjoy an unforgettable day on the water.
"My wife celebrated her 40th out on the water with some friends and had a blast." — Christopher,
- +3trips fromUS $950
Mollys Boats
San Francisco+1Come enjoy the San Francisco Bay with me. I have been running this business for quite a few years and my favorite thing is taking people out showing them how beautiful the San Francisco Bay is.
trips fromUS $650Spinnaker Sailing SF
San FranciscoSpinnaker Sailing SF proudly operates a classic 1985 Santa Cruz 50, an iconic performance sailing yacht based in the heart of San Francisco.
trips fromUS $3,000Spinnaker Sailing SF – J/105 FAST & FUN!
San FranciscoSet sail on San Francisco Bay aboard our fully restored 2005 J/Boats J/105 (restored 2025), designed for thrilling, fast, and comfortable sailing for up to 6 guests.
trips fromUS $750Tahoe Lakeside Charters
Homewood+3Experience Lake Tahoe in comfort and style aboard Tahoe Lakeside Charters, a 2005 Formula 330SS Motor Yacht based in Homewood.
trips fromUS $800Big C Charters
San Francisco+3Big C Charters invites you aboard the Outer Limits, a spacious 55 ft catamaran departing from San Francisco, perfect for private groups of up to 45 guests.
trips fromUS $1,200Blue Runner Boat Cruises
San FranciscoStep aboard the Blue Runner Boat Cruise, a classic 1976 Delta Sportfishing vessel offering unforgettable experiences on the waters of San Francisco Bay.
trips fromUS $1,799Sierra Surf House
South Lake TahoeGet ready for an unforgettable day on the water aboard Sierra Surf House, a sleek and powerful 2021 Centurion FI 23, based out of stunning South Lake Tahoe! This premium 23-foot surf and wake boat is built for fun and comfort, accommodating up to 10 guest
trips fromUS $700Jacob Frye’s Guide Service
Shasta LakeExplore the stunning waters of Shasta Lake with Jacob Frye’s Guide Service aboard a powerful and well-maintained 2003 Alumaweld Supervee Jet boat, fully restored in 2013.
trips fromUS $450
Frequently Asked Questions about Boat Tours in Northern California
- 1-hour boating trips – US $650
- 2-hour boating trips – US $850
- 3-hour boating trips – US $1,548
- 4-hour boating trips – US $1,623
- 5-hour boating trips – US $2,250
- 6-hour boating trips – US $2,583
- 8-hour boating trips – US $2,200
- 1-hour boating trips – US $650
- 2-hour boating trips – US $850
- 3-hour boating trips – US $1,548
- 4-hour boating trips – US $1,623
- 5-hour boating trips – US $2,250
- 6-hour boating trips – US $2,583
- 8-hour boating trips – US $2,200
Boating in Northern California
Northern California is a boater’s playground, where rugged coastline, iconic bays, and glassy mountain lakes offer something for every kind of day on the water. Northern California boating charters put you in the heart of it all—from cruising past skylines and bridges on San Francisco Bay to slipping into sheltered coves along the Sonoma and Mendocino coasts. Expect crisp Pacific air, dramatic headlands, and frequent encounters with seabirds, sea lions, and seasonal whale sightings as you explore scenic shorelines and lighthouse-dotted points.
Inland, calm waters stretch for miles. The Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta invites relaxed cruising through winding channels, perfect for family outings, sandbar picnics, and watersports. Farther north, Shasta Lake’s sprawling arms and Lake Tahoe’s clear, alpine-blue expanse deliver classic freshwater escapes ideal for pontoon gatherings, wakeboarding sessions, or quiet mornings casting for trout. You’ll also find peaceful runs on reservoirs and rivers framed by pines and vineyards, where golden sunsets linger and the wind often drops to a gentle breeze.
Whether you’re after a half-day harbor tour, a full-day coastal hop, or a multiday adventure threading marinas and anchorages, Northern California boating charters match a wide range of groups and goals. Skippers can focus on navigation and local insights, while self-drive options let experienced boaters set their own pace. Plan a wildlife cruise, celebrate on a sun deck, or chase that mirror-calm dawn—Northern California rewards every itinerary with memorable views and year-round variety on the water.
What people said about boating in Northern California
- 5.0/5(Whale/Seal/Bird Watching on SF Bay)
Boating with Molly
Captain Molly was so great! We had a gorgeous day and were lucky enough to see to see many whales on our trip. Molly was great with my kids, she is very knowledgeable and personable and it the perfect outing!
How people rated boat trips in Northern California
5.0/5(3 Hour – Tour of San Francisco Bay)Wonderful yacht and Captain
Graditude and its’ Captain Tom provide a wonderful exoerience. The 52’ motoryacht is well maintained and ecceptionally comfortable. There are three different seating salons and the boat can handle heavier seas if necessary, and can handle inclement weather if necessary. Leah from Harbor Smith catered food for us. Book more yhan 3 hours, as there is so mych to in SF Bay, you will not want the cruise to end. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
5.0/5(Dueces Wild SF Tour)Proposal of a Lifetime!
Thank you Miss Molly for your hospitality and showing us the city from the water and for sharing our special day with us! This was one of the greatest experiences we have ever had. We couldn't have asked for a better day and better Captain to share our day with. Thank you so much for your help with our engagement! We will never forget such an incredible trip!


















