Your Ultimate Guide to Renting a Yacht in San Diego Bay: Tips, Tricks, and Must-Knows!

Posted on March 14, 2024 by admin

Picture yourself cruising along the pristine waters of San Diego Bay, soaking up the sun, surrounded by stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Renting a yacht from Mai Tai Yacht Charters in San Diego Bay promises an unforgettable experience. However, this can be a daunting task if you are not sure where to start. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht rental experience in San Diego Bay seamless and sensational.

Choosing the Perfect Yacht:
- Explore a range of yacht options available for rental in San Diego Bay, from sleek and modern vessels to classic luxury yachts.
- Consider your group size, budget, desired amenities, and special features to ensure you find the perfect yacht for your adventure.
Understanding Rental Options:
- Dive into the various rental options available, including hourly charters, half-day excursions, full-day rentals, and overnight stays.
- Learn about the different packages offered, such as catering services, onboard entertainment, and activities.
Navigating Booking and Reservation Process:
- Contact Us for a step-by-step guide to booking your yacht rental, from selecting your preferred date and time to finalizing payment and signing contracts.
- We will assist you with securing your reservation in advance, especially during peak seasons, and understanding cancellation policies.
Preparing for Your Yacht Adventure:
- We will provide an essential checklist for what to bring on board, including sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, comfortable attire, and any personal items you may need.
- Safety briefing: Understand the safety protocols and emergency procedures provided by the rental company to ensure a worry-free experience.
Exploring San Diego Bay Like a Pro:
- Insider tips on must-see attractions and hidden gems along the San Diego Bay coastline, including iconic landmarks, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.
- Recommended routes and itineraries for your yacht adventure, tailored to your preferences and interests.
Making the Most of Your Yacht Rental Experience:
- Suggestions for creating unforgettable memories aboard your rented yacht, whether it’s hosting a luxurious party, enjoying a romantic sunset cruise, or embarking on a thrilling water sports adventure.
- Ideas for capturing stunning photos and videos to document your experience and share with friends and family.

Conclusion: Renting a yacht in San Diego Bay opens up a world of possibilities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. With this ultimate guide at your fingertips, you’re ready to embark on a journey filled with luxury, excitement, and unforgettable moments. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream yacht rental experience in San Diego Bay today!

Navigating the Waves: Tips and Tricks for Those Prone to Seasickness

Posted on November 14, 2023 by admin

Ahoy there, fellow travelers! If the thought of setting sail on the open seas leaves you feeling queasy, fear not – you’re not alone. Seasickness, also known as motion sickness, can put a damper on the excitement of a sea voyage. But don’t let it keep you anchored to dry land! In this blog post, we’ll explore some tried-and-true tips and tricks to help you navigate the waves more comfortably.

Choose the Right Cabin: Selecting the right cabin can make a world of difference for those prone to seasickness. Midship cabins on lower decks tend to experience less motion, providing a more stable and smoother ride. Avoid cabins at the front or rear of the ship, where the movement is more pronounced.
Keep Your Eyes on the Horizon: One of the most effective ways to combat seasickness is to maintain a steady gaze on the horizon. This helps your brain reconcile the motion your body feels with the visual cues it receives, reducing the likelihood of nausea.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate seasickness symptoms, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Sip on water throughout the day, and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these can contribute to dehydration.
Choose the Right Cruise Itinerary: If you’re particularly sensitive to motion, opt for itineraries that navigate calmer waters. Coastal cruises and river cruises often offer a smoother sailing experience compared to open ocean voyages.
Acupressure Wristbands: Many travelers swear by acupressure wristbands, which apply gentle pressure to specific points on your wrists associated with nausea relief. These bands are drug-free and can be a valuable addition to your seasickness toolkit.
Medications and Patches: Several over-the-counter and prescription medications are designed to alleviate seasickness. Consult with your healthcare provider to find the right option for you. Additionally, motion sickness patches, worn behind the ear, can provide continuous relief for an extended period.
Ginger and Other Natural Remedies: Ginger has long been recognized for its anti-nausea properties. Consider bringing ginger candies, ginger tea, or ginger supplements on your journey. Other natural remedies include peppermint and aromatherapy with soothing scents like lavender.
Choose the Right Time to Sail: Weather conditions can significantly impact the motion of the ship. If possible, schedule your cruise during the calmer seasons, when seas are generally smoother. Avoid peak hurricane or storm seasons to minimize the risk of encountering rough seas.

Conclusion: Don’t let seasickness cast a shadow over your maritime adventures. With these tips and tricks, you can set sail with confidence and enjoy the beauty of the open seas. Bon voyage!

Navigating Paradise: A Guide to Boating in San Diego Bay

Posted on September 22, 2023 by admin

San Diego, often referred to as “America’s Finest City,” boasts a wealth of attractions, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife. However, one of the most underrated and spectacular experiences you can have in this coastal metropolis is boating in San Diego Bay. With its perfect weather, breathtaking views, and a range of activities to choose from, exploring the bay by boat offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the wonders of boating in San Diego Bay.

The Bay’s Natural Beauty

San Diego Bay is a picturesque natural harbor stretching over 12 miles along the city’s coastline. Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the city, the bay is a sanctuary for both wildlife and water enthusiasts. The bay is home to various marine life, including seals, sea lions, dolphins, and an array of seabirds. As you glide through the pristine waters, you’ll have the chance to witness these creatures in their natural habitat, making every boating trip a memorable wildlife encounter.

Spectacular Views

One of the most captivating aspects of boating in San Diego Bay is the breathtaking views it offers. Whether you’re cruising past the iconic Coronado Bridge, admiring the skyline, or enjoying a fiery sunset over Point Loma, you’ll find yourself surrounded by captivating beauty at every turn. The bay’s calm waters and consistent sunshine make it a perfect canvas for an unforgettable day on the water.

Boating Activities

San Diego Bay offers a variety of boating activities suitable for all ages and interests:

Sailing: San Diego is renowned for its sailing culture, and you can join in the fun by renting a sailboat or chartering a sailing excursion. Novices and seasoned sailors alike will appreciate the bay’s favorable winds and stunning scenery.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: For a more active experience, consider kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay. You can explore sheltered coves, hidden beaches, and even get up close with marine life.
Fishing: San Diego Bay is a popular spot for anglers, with a rich diversity of fish species. You can try your hand at catching bass, halibut, or even the elusive yellowtail.
Cruises and Tours: If you prefer a more relaxed experience, various companies offer harbor tours and dinner cruises. These outings provide informative narration about San Diego’s history and offer a delightful dining experience on the water.
Jet Skiing and Water Sports: Thrill-seekers can rent jet skis or participate in water sports like wakeboarding and water skiing. These activities add an adrenaline rush to your boating adventure.

Dining on the Water

San Diego Bay is home to several waterfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy delicious cuisine with unbeatable views. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Mexican delicacies, or international fare, you’ll find an array of options to satisfy your palate. Some restaurants even offer dockside dining, allowing you to savor your meal while watching boats glide by.

Safety and Regulations

Before embarking on your boating adventure in San Diego Bay, it’s essential to be aware of safety guidelines and regulations. Make sure your vessel is properly equipped, and you’re familiar with local rules, including speed limits, navigation aids, and anchoring restrictions. Always prioritize safety for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

Boating in San Diego Bay is an extraordinary way to explore this stunning city and its natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, the bay has something to offer everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in San Diego, don’t miss the chance to discover the magic of this coastal paradise from the vantage point of a boat. Your memories of boating in San Diego Bay will undoubtedly leave you with a lasting love for this remarkable destination.

Sailing and Boating on San Diego Bay

Posted on December 31, 2020 by admin

With a mild climate and consistent winds, San Diego is the ultimate playground for boating of all types. From outrigger canoes to super yachts, cruise ships to submarines, recreational to racing, San Diego is the place to get out on the water. Adding boating to your vacation itinerary is easy with a variety of charter services. Additionally, dinner cruises, sport fishing, scuba diving excursions, whale watching and other ocean-going outings. are available.

San Diego has three harbors – Oceanside, Mission Bay and The Big Bay (including Point Loma Peninsula, Coronado, the Downtown Waterfront and Chula Vista). All of these offer marina facilities, boat rentals, private charters, boat tours, scheduled excursions and boating classes. Small boats and paddle boards can also be rented along the coast and at some of San Diego’s inland lakes. Boat owners will find ample locations to launch, moor or repair their vessels, whether they are taking a spin around the bay, or making a stopover on an around-the-world cruise.

From downtown, you can also hop aboard the Coronado Ferry at Broadway Pier for a scenic ride across the bay to Coronado Ferry Landing.

For more adventurous boaters, San Diego offers great fishing. Long-range sportfishermen often head 100 miles or more offshore. Catalina Island is also a favorite destination for coastal sailing enthusiasts.

Cruise ships offer routes from San Diego to Mexico and beyond. Summer and Fall are the most predictable seasons to go to sea in San Diego. If you are manning your own vessel, make sure to check government agencies such as The National Weather Service or the San Diego Lifeguard Service for current information and forecasts to ensure your safety.

San Diego’s affinity for boating has a long history. This can be dated back to early Pacific explorers like Juan Cabrillo who stepped into history as the first European to set foot in California in San Diego Bay in 1542. An excellent natural harbor and important stop on the California Mission circuit, San Diego’s marine traffic grew rapidly during the colonial period and into the early 20th Century. Even before the Naval buildup during and following the Second World War, San Diego had already established itself in the boatbuilding, tuna fishing and shipping industries. Yachting and sailboat racing were a popular pastime – a continuing tradition that has spawned America’s Cup races, boats and crews.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

Posted on November 21, 2017 by admin

Parade Schedule

The 46th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds during the evenings of December 10 and 17, 2017. Participants in this year’s highly anticipated holiday boat parade will decorate their boats to fit this year’s theme, “Arrrgh. A Pirate’s Christmas”

Presented by the Port of San Diego, the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights brings more than 100,000 San Diego residents and visitors to the shores of San Diego Bay each year. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region.

This year, for the second time, the parade will proceed to the pier at Cesar Chavez Park before making the turn to Coronado, giving spectators another area to view the parade. Beginning at 5 p.m. each night, the parade starts at Shelter Island and proceeds to Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, the Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, and ends at the Ferry Landing in Coronado. The parade takes about an hour to pass any given point and there are many comfortable waterfront viewpoints along the route. Due to increased traffic and parking demand, observers are encouraged to plan ahead or take the trolley.

For added insight into the participating boats, viewers can watch the parade from near the announcers’ areas. Announcers will be located at the Maritime Museum on the Embarcadero and at Coronado Landing. As each boat passes these viewing points, the announcers offer a brief history and description of the participating vessels.

Sunday, December 10, 2017

The procession will start at 5:00 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.

Sunday, December 17, 2017

The procession will start at 5:00 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.

Parade Route & Approximate Times at Locations around the Bay

The parade takes approximately one hour to one and a half hours to pass any given point along the parade route. The approximate arrival time of the parade at various locations are:

Shelter Island (start of parade) 5:00 p.m.
Harbor Island 5:30 p.m.
The Embarcadero 6:00 p.m.
Seaport Village 6:30 p.m.
The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park 6:45 p.m.
Ferry Landing on Coronado 7:00 p.m.

Begins at 5:00 p.m. from south end of Shelter Island
Proceeds from south end to north end of Shelter Island
Proceeds from north end of Shelter Island across America’s Cup Harbor entrance to west end of Harbor Island
Proceeds from west end of Harbor Island to east end of Harbor Island
Proceeds from east end of Harbor Island to just west of Maritime Museum’s ferry, Berkeley
Proceeds past Berkeley and Star of India
Parallels the Embarcadero to the “G” St. Mole
Proceeds past Seaport Village and the San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina
Proceeds past Marina Park and new in 2016, down to the new Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, and turns south to cross the Bay to the Marriott Coronado Hotel
Proceeds west to the Coronado Ferry Landing
Finishes at buoy 22a

Important Parking Information for the Parade

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is seen by approximately 100,000 people every year. As a result, parking will be limited in and around the Bay.

Attendees to the event are encouraged to utilize San Diego Public Transit, such as the San Diego Trolley. All three trolley lines and several Bus lines serve Stations with parking lots that provide convenient service to the North Embarcadero area include Fashion Valley, Old Town and America Plaza.

To get within a short walk of Harbor Drive, take the Green Line to the Santa Fe Depot, or the Orange or Blue Line to the American Plaza stop. On Sundays, two children ages 12 and under ride free on MTS Trolley and Bus with each paid adult, and an Adult Day Pass fare is only $5 on a Compass Card.

For more information go to www.sdmts.com.

Another Alternative is to park downtown and utilize San Diego Pedicab service for transportation to the Embarcadero. Fares run about $1 per minute.

The following outlines other free and paid lots:

Metered spaces along Harbor DriveMetered – 7 Days a week

Allright Parking (Broadway & Harbor Dr.)Paid

Seaport VillagePaid (Two hours free with purchase)

Parking Lot in front of Fish Market Restaurant north of Seaport VillageMetered

Harbor IslandFree but limited

Shelter IslandFree

BEST VIEWING

One of the best places to view the Parade is from the water! A good area for boaters wishing to view the Parade is where the Parade turns west for Coronado, near the 10th Street Terminal.

For landlubber viewers, the north and south ends of the Embarcadero are great areas for viewing, as well as the pathway along Coronado as these areas tend to be less crowded. Another excellent viewing point is the park behind Seaport Village and the new pier at Cesar Chavez Park.

If you plan on viewing the parade from Harbor Island, get there early and be aware that parking is at a premium.

San Diego Bay: A Jewel of the Pacific Coast

Posted on April 14, 2017 by admin

San Diego Bay, located on the southern coast of California, is a stunning natural harbor that has played a pivotal role in the history, culture, and economy of the San Diego region. This blog post will explore the beauty, significance, and attractions of San Diego Bay, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

A Natural Wonder

San Diego Bay is a picturesque inlet of the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views and an abundance of natural beauty. The bay is a product of its unique geography, nestled between the Point Loma Peninsula and the Silver Strand, and it covers approximately 22 square miles, making it one of the largest natural harbors on the U.S. West Coast. The calm waters, moderate climate, and scenic surroundings make it a paradise for both residents and visitors.

Historical Significance

San Diego Bay has a rich history that dates back centuries. It was first discovered by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, becoming a vital part of early California’s maritime trade routes. The bay has witnessed numerous historical events, including the establishment of the Presidio of San Diego, the arrival of the first European settlers in California, and the construction of naval bases during World War II.

Iconic Landmarks

The bay is home to several iconic landmarks that add to its charm:

USS Midway Museum: Housed in the aircraft carrier USS Midway, this museum offers a fascinating look at naval aviation history and the life of sailors on board.
Coronado Island: Connected to downtown San Diego by the Coronado Bridge, this picturesque island is known for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and the historic Hotel del Coronado.
Seaport Village: A vibrant waterfront district featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment, providing a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the bay’s views.

Water Activities

San Diego Bay is a water lover’s paradise. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities, such as:

Sailing: The bay is a prime spot for sailing and hosts numerous regattas and events throughout the year.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: The calm waters make it perfect for these activities, allowing you to explore the bay’s nooks and crannies. Check out West Coast Paddle Board Rentals for the best option for paddle board rentals in San Diego.
Whale watching: San Diego Bay is on the migration route for gray whales, making it a great place to spot these magnificent creatures.
Fishing: The bay is home to a variety of fish, providing ample opportunities for anglers.

Vibrant Culture

The communities surrounding San Diego Bay offer a rich cultural experience. The region is known for its diverse population, resulting in a fusion of various cultural influences. You can explore art galleries, theaters, and music venues, and enjoy local cuisine that reflects the area’s diverse flavors.

Environmental Conservation

San Diego Bay is not only a beautiful destination but also a focus for environmental conservation efforts. The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge protects vital habitats for native and migratory wildlife. The conservation efforts aim to preserve the bay’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Conclusion

San Diego Bay is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, culture, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in exploring maritime history, enjoying water sports, or simply taking in the stunning views, San Diego Bay has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this iconic destination and experience the best that Southern California has to offer.

State of the Port Event January 7, 2016

Posted on January 3, 2016 by admin

The Port of San Diego invites members of the public to learn about the “State of the Port” at an evening event combined with its annual Swearing-In Ceremony for officers of the Board of Port Commissioners on January 7, 2016, at the USS Midway Museum.

The event will begin at 7 p.m. in the museum, which is located in a historic aircraft carrier docked in San Diego Bay at 910 North Harbor Dr. in San Diego. A limited amount of free public parking will be available in the adjacent lot on Navy Pier. Attendees are encouraged to take public transportation or carpool to the event.

This public event reflects the Port of San Diego’s commitment to serving our community with transparency, accountability and inclusivity. Each January, the Board of Port Commissioners hosts a Swearing-in Ceremony in which the Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary positions rotate for the calendar year. Both the outgoing and incoming Chairmen deliver speeches reflecting the “State of the Port.”

At this event, the public will learn about future, ongoing and completed projects and initiatives taking place within the Port of San Diego. Outgoing 2015 Chairman Dan Malcolm will be recognized and will provide a summary of the year in review and the current status of various initiatives. Following his speech, the incoming Board officers will be sworn in, followed by a speech from Chairman Merrifield looking ahead to 2016. The other incoming 2016 Board officers are Vice Chairman Robert “Dukie” Valderrama and Secretary Rafael Castellanos.

The USS Midway Museum is a Port attraction since 2004 and is visited by more than 1 million people each year. The museum offers visitors an unforgettable experience aboard one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers. Visitors to the USS Midway Museum enter a floating city at sea and walk in the footsteps of 225,000 Midway sailors who served our country and upheld the American ideals of strength, freedom and peace.

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

Posted on December 18, 2015 by admin

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is an annual time-honored holiday tradition brought to San Diego by the boating community.The parade takes place on San Diego Bay with more than 80 boats lavishly decorated to a new theme each year. Held on two consecutive Sundays in December, the parade proceeds from Shelter Island past Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, and the Ferry Landing in Coronado. Whether you’re a participant or spectator, the Parade of Lights is a festive and delightful experience for all!

2015 Theme – Christmas Around the World!

Parade Dates and Times

The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is held two consecutive Sundays:

Sunday, December 13, 2015
Sunday, December 20, 2015

Approximate Times at Locations Around the Bay

The parade takes approximately one hour to one and a half hours to pass any given point along the parade route. The approximate arrival time of the parade at various locations are:

Shelter Island (start of parade): 5:30 PM
Harbor Island: 6:00 PM
The Embarcadero: 6:30 PM
Seaport Village: 7:00 PM
Ferry Landing on Coronado: 7:30 PM

Best Viewing Locations

For those viewing the parade from the water, the best vantage point for viewing is where the parade turns west to Coronado, near the 10th Street Terminal. For those on land, try the north and south ends of the Embarcadero, as well as the pathway along Coronado, as these areas tend to be less crowded. Other excellent viewing points are the park behind Seaport Village, Harbor Island and Shelter Island. If you plan on viewing the parade from Harbor Island, get there early as available parking spaces fill up quickly.

For the very view and to participate in the celebration give us a call and reserve your Mai Tai Yacht Charters Yacht (858) 583-3447

Seaport Village in for Future Shock?

Posted on December 9, 2015 by admin

A 14 acre waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex recreating a harbor side setting of a century ago. Includes 54 one of a kind shops, 13 casual dining eateries, 4 fine dining waterfront restaurants, and located in close proximity to local hotels. Opened in 1980.

A 35-year landmark on San Diego Bay could be in store for some 21st-century changes. Seaport Village has been a prime sightseeing, shopping and dining destination for locals as well as tourists. On Tuesday, Port commissioners voted to seek development proposals, with the idea that renovations might generate more visitors and revenue.

That idea is unsettling to Seaport Village tenants and their customers who spoke with NBC 7. “It’s a very unique place that’s been as it is for a really long time, and I think that’s the biggest draw for people coming back — locals and people visiting,” said Michelle Beauchamp. She runs Swings and Things, a store specializing in craftwork hammocks and notions in the interior of Seaport Village. Beauchamp is one of dozens of shopkeepers and restaurateurs who employ hundreds of workers in the 13-acre complex.

Areas surrounding Seaport such as Tuna Harbor also are in line for potential upgrades. Port officials didn’t think a renovation proposal by the village’s current operator would be prosperous enough. What we heard there Tuesday was a lot of support for the status quo — or an updated vision that brings minimal change at the most.

“I realize a lot of it is tourism here, but it’s nice for the people who live here too to have a familiar place to go to,” said Julian resident Lennie Dubler. “You don’t come to a place like this all the time.”

“I think that it’s beautiful the way that it is,” said Jayme Newell, a South Riding, VA, resident who told NBC 7 she’s now been to Seaport Village twice while visiting San Diego. “To be more commercialized, I think, that would ruin the effect of it, from what I see; that would be a mistake,” Newell added. “It’s very quiet and quaint.”

Said La Mesa resident Reg Sidaway: “You cannot touch Seaport Village. No way. It’s as good as you’ll get anywhere in the world … what would you change? It’s got the atmosphere. It’s even got the music sometimes.” Coronado resident Tamara Brown shared these thoughts: “We just ate at a sandwich place that was nice and homey and small-time. I like the feel of the little town that they have going on here.”

This, from Anaheim resident Kent Hemseri, a frequent visitor to San Diego and Seaport Village: “If it’s working, then leave it alone. I know the city of Anaheim a long time ago tore down a lot of old historic buildings, and they probably wish nowadays that they hadn’t done it. It’s hard to go back.”

Port officials say they’ll be working through a bid selection process that could lead to decision-making within a few months. Shopkeepers who didn’t want to be quoted think there’s a likelihood of higher rents and some lease expirations when all is said and done.

Cruising San Diego Bay on Mai Tai Yacht Charter

Posted on October 29, 2015 by admin

Yacht Charters are great orientations to cities and can be considered a touristy thing to do. Mai Tai Yacht Charters are a combination of sightseeing, wildlife sighting and a wonderful perspective of America’s Finest City. Come along with us and see some of San Diego’s most famous attractions from the water.

Take advantage of the always beautiful San Diego weather and spend some time cruising the bay. The Big Bay is always full of activity and there is never a shortage of scenery.

A San Diego Bay tour starts in the northern part of the bay first passing by Harbor Island. Next, we head east to one of the unique attractions in the city, the Maritime Museum. It has a collection of historic sailing vessels including historical ships, steam ferries and a B-30 Soviet attack submarine.

Star of India at the San Diego Maritime Museum

The Star of India is a standout as the “world’s oldest seaworthy tall sailing ship”. This ship was built in 1863 and circumnavigated the globe 21 times with some lasting a year. They have a program where elementary school kids pretend to be sailors with actual duties and wake up calls and spend the night here. My daughter did this a few years ago and had such a memorable experience. Her original name was Euterpe who was the Greek muse of poetry and music.

Charters includes seeing the USS Midway Museum up close. This was the longest serving aircraft carrier in US Naval history from 1945 – 1991. It is now a museum including 24 restored aircrafts.

The next part of our charter heads toward the southern part of the bay. Coronado Island is a great day trip option. It’s got the relaxed, beach town atmosphere but also seems detached from the city despite its location across the bay. The waterfront includes multi-million dollar homes with enviable views. The only way to access the island is through ferries or by using the over 2-mile Coronado Bridge.

You may have driven on this $50 million bridge countless times but there is nothing like seeing it from the water. What an amazing structure! The bridge has a vertical clearance of about 200 feet (61 m) allowing enough room for the tall ships to pass underneath it.

San Diego is a huge military town. South of the bridge is sort of like an outdoor museum of the US Navy’s ships, submarines and dry-dock facilities. Some of these ships were massive and some of them have recently returned from months of deployment.

One of the most interesting things on the dock was the USNS Mercy. She was one of the Navy’ s hospital ships and has a total capacity of about 1000 patient beds and can be activated within 5 days.

After cruising under the Coronado Bridge, we anchor for a bit to relax and have a cold beverage. The inflatable party island is an option for this portion of the charter.

The anchoring spot to kick back and relax

On the way back to the harbor, we go past the airport and on to Shelter Island which is a man-made island that houses many marinas and Polynesian themed restaurants and outdoor summer concerts. This was created over 50 years ago using dredged up sand from the bay to make room for the big military ships. You will love seeing the harbor seals sun bathing along with some of the local birds.

We will turn-around back to the downtown area and passed more of the city’s landmarks. It’s always a joy to see all the activity around Seaport Village. This area with 57 unique shops is a wonderful place for a stroll and the grassy area is always a hit with kids.

Cruising the Big Bay offers something for everyone including kids. It helps you appreciate the beauty of the waterfront and all the landmarks along it. If you’re here visiting, I hope this is one of the first things you do.