Love it. Gone 3 times now and all were great. Looks like they no longer have the brunch sail which is too bad because that was my favorite, but both of the afternoon sails I've gone on too have been great. Staff are super nice. It's just gorgeous out there. Bring warm clothes! It's windy and sometimes you get wet! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Such an amazing experience! Came with a group of 8 people on a Sunday for a 1 pm tour. We all enjoyed it a lot: the weather was beautiful and the vessel looked very well kept. The crew itself was very knowledgeable and nice and the customer service was top notch: check in was easy and fast, we were given a lot of explanations about what the capital was doing and what is safe, the wine and beer was generously poured, and we were even given blankets as it was windy. separate thanks to the capital for letting a few of us hold the wheel. also saw an otter on the water and a seal chilling on the docks. we made amazing memories and will reccomend this place to others. will try to be back! read more

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This crew is the best in the business! Fabulous day out on the Monterey Bay. This is probably been our sixth sail with them and love coming back for more.Captain Cate, Sam and Anissa did a great job! Thanks again and see you soon! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Out on the Bay - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Chartered the boat for a birthday celebration last year and then was invited for a friend's birthday this year. Both times were so fun. The crew is friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Most recently they served food and beverages while we were sailing. The host had pre-ordered a solid variety of appetizers and the crew did an impeccable job serving them- meat, skewers, pizza, charcuterie, etc. It was a wild day with the birds which provided us a unique and memorable experience. While the host pays the initial gratuity, it's always a little unclear for party guests if they two should chip in on gratuity. I know they don't want to ask for tips, but I am left wondering if they are left getting the short end of the stick. read more

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We took this cruise in memory of my aunt. From the very beginning the crew was kind and professional. My husband is prone to seasickness and sure enough he got sick. The crew was so quick and efficient. Not only did they catch on to his discomfort, but they were prepared to deal with it before it got terrible and in the most kind and professional way. All this was epic, but the crew also worked hard to make to sail the most beautiful ceremony for my aunt. The entire family was happy and grateful for the perfect memory. Thank you crew for everything. (And animal watching for the little ones, too!). read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Kids loved the wildlife! - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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I had the BEST time with Chardonnay Sailing Charters on their Sunset Sail! I've been on a few cruises in the Santa Cruz area, but this is by far my favorite. The music, wine, pizza, and amazing crew made the experience so fun and memorable. The wildlife viewing was also incredible! We got to see otters, a whale breach, and even seals swimming with whales! The staff is also exceptionally gracious. At one point, I lost my footing and catapulted right toward a crew member, and she was so sweet and completely understanding about it. I'll definitely be back, and will be recommending this cruise to everyone I know! read more

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We have taken a bday cruise on this charter every July, for as long as I remember and it's ALWAYS a great time. Terrific boat, wonderful crew, and never a disappointment read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Do not buy tickets for this cruse and don't buy gift certificates for others. These people will cancel your reservations every time. We have 6 gift certificates, gifted over a 10+ year period, now from well meaning relatives and friends but we've never been able to use any of them. We're getting old now and soon it will be too late. One recipient has died already, never being able to use his gift certificate. Here is the typical scenario. Friends or relatives come to visit and we make reservations for us all to go on a cruise. We tell everyone about it but 24 hours before the cruise , they cancel! Truly maddening. read more

It was a great day out to sea on a Fourth of July weekend. Really great to cruise around Santa Cruz for a few hours and get out to sea. Crew was amazing and the sailboat is amazing! Get a black and tan! read more

i am a seaaa kittyy i feel the breeze on ma faceeeee! i wish i wore some sun creammm! i wanna do this everyday. don't forget ur binoculars. but if u do, the crew miiight lend you theirs if u r cool (*u*) they give u wine or beer while you traverse around the monterey bay. and u feel like a million dollars. very special time for me. read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Sunset - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Vibes: 5/5 Food: 5/5 Value: 5/5 Bring kids? : Yes, with notes below I am definitely going to return to Chardonnay sailing charters with additional guests that come to visit from out of town! My family and I booked the 3:30 Pizza tour on Sunday. We had wonderful sunny weather and a lot of wind! You check in at a small dock office and they give you a card to hold onto until you board the ship. You should arrive early enough to check in, park, and, if needed, use the bathrooms (right around the corner from the office). Instructions are provided on land and on the boat. I would definitely pack a streamlined backpack because you don't want to be holding onto anything while you're on the boat. It's rocking back-and-forth. There's a lot of wind and you'll need both hands to hold the pizza and drinks! Highly recommend putting on sunblock before you get on and securing hats with strings. if you're nervous on boats try to board early so you get a seat towards the back. We had a little kids with us (2 & 8) and I was glad we had bench seating as opposed to being closer to the bow with less secure seating areas. They do provide kids lifejackets as well! The captain even let the kids take turns driving the boat, which was a highlight for my kids! If it was just me and my husband and we didn't have to keep two kiddos from falling over, I would have been on the bow with a rain jacket because you can expect to get wet if there is wind and waves! Just keep in mind for those with elderly, folks with mobility issues, or kids you'll want to board first to get access to the bench seats. The crew was extremely hospitable and polite. They come around at every opportunity to refill your cup with drink of choice (local wine, local beer, and bubble water and sodas) and give you delicious local pizza from Upper Crust. I very much appreciated the ability to order a personalized gluten-free pizza (included in the regular price). There are also options for vegan pizza. I was expecting the options to be just plain old cheese pizza, but to my surprise, one by one, the varieties of pizza kept coming out! Pepperoni, sausage, pesto, mushroom and on - so many different varieties of pizzas! You are given a paper plate and cup (to hold onto for dear life). If you lose the plate, it may end up in the ocean so hold on tight! You basically get fed, unlimited pizza and drink as you sail around the Santa Cruz area - truly a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Make sure you secure everything try to be as hands-free as possible, bring layers, including a wind , and bring cash to tip the amazing crew at the end of the journey! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Kids life jackets are provided and would definitely recommend this charter for families! - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Beautiful sail last night, good Sones wine/pizza . The crew is great and very attentive and made sure we had a wonderful time . Wind perfect for the sail. Spectacular views and sunset. We had so much fun . Saw thousands of shearwater birds and whales . Would highly recommend! read more

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I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with the crew of the Chardonnay. We went to spread a dear friends ashes this morning. John (the Captain) Bo and Colin were fabulous. They made a very hard morning wonderful. Had a stunning sail out and just before we were going to spread the ashes a pod of dolphin swam around the boat. read more

First time attending the pizza Cruise!! Definitely enjoyed every minute of it even though I'm in my third trimester of being pregnant it was still an awesome experience. My family got to enjoy complimentary pizza, wine, beer on tap, and sodas. The music they played made the vibe go up 1000% The staff were super nice, attentive, and reassuring. Definitely worth the money, Definitely telling everyone I know, & definitely coming back! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - pizza cruise - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

I was on the Friday night sunset sail -- my 3rd trip -- and each time it just gets better. It was beautiful out on the water -- the captain and crew were amazing -- one pointed out the 'mirage' -- the beverages were great -- it was just a perfect experience. My 20+ you son was with me -- and this was also his 3rd sail (you should create an awards program;)). This is a wonderful Santa Cruz experience -- shouldn't be missed by those of us who live here -- and visitors because each time out, it's a unique experience. There is NOTHING better than going out on the water -- feeling the wind in your face -- it truly a feeling of freedom! Even if you're not a 'sailor' -- this is one experience you should do at least once a year! read more

So much fun! The weather was perfect. The 2 hour sail was the perfect length. The crew were expert sailors. And the sailboat and the sailing experience was phenomenal. If you want to have a great time, sail the Chardonnay! read more

What an amazing crew, cruise and experience! Went with friends to celebrate a retirement. Met others. The winemaker was fabulous. The crew happy, friendly and having a great time. Will do this again. read more

Fun experience, and great service from the staff. Treated to a private package with sandwiches, wine and beer. We started at Santa Cruz harbor, then towards the wharf and beyond. This experience had great views and was a lot of fun. Highly recommend this to anyone in a group. read more

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I went on the sunset pizza, beer and wine sail today and it was fabulous. The vibe was really chill. The wine was really tasty. They offered about 4 pours and went around 3 times with different type of delicious pizza. The sail was relaxing with a beautiful sunset. Highly recommend if you are in the Santa Cruz area. I was able to easily book online the day before. Check them out for a chill evening on the water! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Views just before docking - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Check in process was quick but I'm really surprised that it didn't require us to sign any waivers. We went for a company event and there were 25 of us and we were mixed in with a group of maybe 15 or so. There weren't any space on the boat so we scattered and some had to sit in the front area right below the sail. Let me tell you, it was a wild ride. During the turning points, depending on which side you sat on.. the boat would tip so much that we all felt that we were going to fall in and held on to dear life. We were served wine, beer and pizza. Which made it hard as we had to hold onto a paper plate and cup so we didn't know where to place it as we tried to not fall in. Anyway, the highlight of it was when a man next to us actually flew from one side of the boat to the other side during all of this commotion, and ended up smashing in to a lady and made her hit the railing. We thought she fell over but luckily she didn't. It was a wild ride. read more

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We looked ahead at the weather and knew it would be a great day for a sail. We invited another couple and all had a terrific time. On the 5:30 sunset sail the pizza, wine and beer just kept on flowing. We enjoyed white and red wine and five different kinds of pizza. (Someone even requested gluten free and they had some of that!) The crew brought everything to us and I really loved the Salmon Creek Chardonnay they were pouring. So glad the wind came up adding excitement about halfway through the sail. Time went fast and everyone on the boat looked to be enjoying themselves. Right after leaving we thought we left a bag on board. Bo and the others helped us look for it. We were thinking maybe it flew away, then I got a call from our friend and said she accidentally picked it up and was still in the parking lot. Thanks Bo for helping us search anyway. We will return. read more

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One of my girls just had part of her bachelorette party on the Chardonnay. It was 100% a 5 star experience because of the excellent service provided by Milton and Ali. Those two worked their booties off keeping everyone stocked with pizza, wine and beer. Despite the often hilarious angles that the boat was on due to the sail, they just couldn't be stopped. I loved every minute of the ride. It was beautiful, exquisite weather and overall great vibes! Pro tip, you can bring food and alcohol! And you need to wear flat shoes (for safety)! read more

After years of seeing the Chardonnay out sailing and saying "those people are so lucky, I wish I was on there" I finally got to be one of those lucky people. I was extra lucky too, because I won two tickets via an Instagram giveaway! With so many different sails to choose from it was hard to pick just one, but we finally decided on the Sunday brunch. We had a fairly empty boat when we went, just enough to ensure the sail didn't get cancelled. Having it so light on guests made the experience extra relaxing. We were able to space out on the boat and not worry about being in someones way. It was an absolutely spectacular day on the water. The sun was shining and it wasn't too cold. I didn't have to put on any of the extra layers I brought with me. We set out 10am which was high Tide this particular day. The water was fairly calm a few waves here and there, but for the most part very relaxing. We didn't see much wildlife, a lot of pelicans and some sea lions, was hoping for a whale but we weren't that lucky unfortunately. Captain John as well as Kaya and Kate were great hosts. They were attentive with the mimosa refills and captain John had great sense of humor. This was truly such a great experience. When the sail was winding down we were already planning for the next one we wanted to go on. Thank you to Chardonnay for the incredible morning on the water and for hosting the giveaway that I was lucky enough to win. read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Boarding pass - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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I recommend Chardonnay II Sailing Charters. The best sailing charter in the West !!! Well done Captain Todd & crew: Bobo & Pinky !!! The money was well spent for a wonderful day at sea. Our party of 8 from around the world were delighted. We saw much sea life and had a great dinner & drinks overflowing. Thank you !!! read more

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Friendly and attentive crew and team. Well maintained vessel. Went out on a 2 hr sailing charter as a social/gathering event for our hospital department. Felt safe and well taken care of during the entire charter. Noticed that we ended up coming back *early* and docked before our initially reported stop time - for the cost of the charter, would have expected to be out in the water the entire time, or even a little over (just for good measure). I think they had another charter after ours, but still felt a little bit shorted. read more

10/10 would definitely recommend!! We did the Champagne Brunch and it was so much fun! The crew was super attentive and friendly, and Captain Craig was great to chat with. The pastries from The Buttery were delicious! I can't say enough good things. We'll definitely be back! read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Champagne Brunch - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

The experience has gone down hill. Pizza and beer (4 pours) used to be included. Now they have started removing that, charging $15 for "protein boxes" that taste like crap. Will not be returning until new management gets their act together. Stop nickeling and diming your long time customers. Chardonnay is the new spirit/frontier airlines read more

I just got back from a lovely afternoon with the Chardonnay Sailing Charters. This is what I loved about the charter: Easy instructions via email on how to get to the marina and where to park Friendly employees at the check-in trailer Option to purchase a box of tasty snacks for your trip Two friendly crew members that were sailing with us that were helpful, smiley, in a good mood, and making sure we were all having a good time. The two crew members helped anyone needing a hand to move about on the boat while it was moving. Brought out warm blankets if you wanted them. Paid attention to the 2 small children on board. Actually they paid attention to all of us!! The Captain was very personable and gave us really clear instructions on what to expect on the charter. Made sure we knew the layout of the boat and where the life jackets were located in case of an emergency. I witnessed the captain allow some of the passengers the opportunity to steer the helm. He even allowed a few teenagers to steer the boat....with his watchful eyes. The Captain sailed all around the Santa Cruz bay for two hours! The music was great, wine was tasty, crew and captain made such an effort to give us all a good time. I would highly recommend you book a cruise with Chardonnay Sailing Charters. I had a blast! read more

OMG!! What an amazing day. Weather was perfect. The crew was amazing and served pizza and wine all we wanted.

INCREDIBLE 50TH BIRTHDAY FOR SANDY G! CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH ON A BEAUTIFUL CHARDONNAY SAILBOAT! Review of Chardonnay Sailing Charters Reviewed February 12, 2018 The Captain and staff on board and for check are exceptional. It was an absolutely perfect day for a sail in February to celebrate our friend's 50th birthday. The pastries were delicious with coffee & baileys (we brought our own drinks). I'm not a champagne drinker, but others enjoyed mimosas. The Chardonnay is incredible! The time passed much too quickly, but we enjoyed every second on the beautiful Chardonnay! We look forward to returning soon! Thank you Chardonnay Sailing Charters!!! Date of experience: February 2018 read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Sailed away with great friends! - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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I've done two different Chardonnay cruises and they were fantastic. The crew is awesome, the views are beautiful. It's an awesome adventure for any occasion read more

Highly recommend everyone taking the sunset cruise! My wife and I have been on it 5 to 6 times and love it every time. Took my dad on October 21, 2023 for a 74th birthday, he loved it. Had great beer, pizza, and wine. The captain and his crew are unbelievable. Let's not forget the music, that's always been great. What are you waiting for book this cruise as fast as you can. It's the BEST read more

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Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship. The mate was a mighty sailin' man, the Skipper brave and sure. Five passengers set sail that day for a three hour tour. A three hour tour. So it was saturday at 10am, partial cloudy, more like 40+ people and it was only 2 hours around the bay. We got served mimosas and bakery goods while sitting on the top of the ship looking out to everything around us. All in all, it was a tour and if you've been on boats, it's nothing special. However it's a thing to do and a great way to get out. Recommended. read more

Very much liked our sunset cruise. Water was calm, it was a beautiful day, and the staff was very attentive. Pizza and drinks are served, and they bring plenty around. Hope to try the one in Monterey someday. read more

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Had an amazing time on the sushi cruise. We were celebrating a couple birthdays and we had a blast. Loved the sushi. My daughter even saw porpoises and sea lions and got to take pictures with the captain. I highly recommend and would love to go again. read more

Staff was very very fun and accommodating. The two hours flew by we were enjoying ourselves so much. It was our very first time on a sailboat and we took our 9 year old with us. The staff included him in conversation, let him steer the boat for a minute and treated him to a few starbursts after we all had pizza and drinks. The views are spectacular and the sunset was like no other from out on the water. We will definitely do this again. They have many different types of pizza, wine and beer, and sodas, juice and waters. We were not sure what the pizza deal was but they walk around with pizzas galore and refilled our cups with wine/beer a few times. read more

Chardonnay Sailing Charters - Sunset sail - Boating Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Great experience and the captain and the crew was amazing service 100% recommend easy to find easy go, boat super clean and food wine and beer was amazing if you're looking for something different do it is a beautiful experience 100% recommend love it read more

This may come as a shocker but I had never been sailing before. I know, born and raised in California's central coast. It took some adventurous colleagues to plan a trip out. This sailing company has several options including a sunset cruise but we went with the 'Taste of Santa Cruz' from 4-6 on a Sunday. We also got lucky in that only half the boat was full. I took some non-drowsy dramamine and was fine. The boat is large enough and goes slow. It was also perfect weather (sunny, high 70's). What to wear you ask? Dress in layers and when you park at the marina ($13) you can see what the weather permits. I went with boat shoes, denim & a chambray shirt with a large floppy hat (didn't want to get tanned). Be sure you take sunscreen and have a jacket handy as it can get windy. As for the service: excellent! The beer and wine are local and it is free flowing. The food was just appetizers and although it was tasty (from Johnnys Harborside), it was minimal which meant the alcohol really kicked in. Perfect for locals, tourists, dates, & celebrations! read more

Perfect for families and small groups of friends! If you're unsure about being on a sailboat, do not worry. It is quite large and crewed by experienced sailors and enthusiasts. The boat will keel over when tacking but never too much to be concerned. Dress warm! Even when it's summer. If you're new to being out on the water, the brisk wind is a constant so wearing a windbreaker is a must. read more

What a memorable day! It was my Mom and my Aunt's 65th birthday and I wanted to do something special for their big day. Happy Birthday Twins! So what's better than food, wine and an afternoon out on the water. I signed us up and we had an absolute blast. It was Chardonnay's first charter with it being Hawaiian food themed and to honest, the food wasn't that great. But we really aren't Pono style food. Too greasy. It was a very windy day and guess what? We actually held on tight and truly sailed through the bay of Santa Cruz. The crew was attentive, professional and hard workers! How they managed to pour wine and beer while we were rocking through the waves is beyond me. Thanks team for making their birthday sail trip absolutely unforgettable. read more