Sail Channel Islands
Sail Channel Islands
5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Capt. Dan is a Coast Guard licensed master and American Sailing Association instrutor. Sail with him for a few hours or up to several days, exploring the Channel Islands ... or take private lessons. We have two yachts, one economy and one luxury boat built in France and we are the only company offering sailing eco-tours of California's Channel Islands.Our islands are often described as the Galapagos of North American and abound in sea life from whales, to dolphins to fish that ride here on either a southern current or the northern one. Ashore, you will find a landscape mostly clear of humans and protected by the National Park Service and the Nature Conservancy. Human civilization dates back some 10,000 years here, but only a handful of caretakers live here now. Come with us and step back in history 200 years, step away from civilization.
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Sail Channel Islands
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
147 reviews
Excellent
145
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Suzanne R
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
My family and I chose Captain Dan's boat charter for a burial at sea. Everything about the experience was wonderful. The boat was on time and clean. Captain Dan and Bosun Dennis are both expert sailors and very nice to hang out with. We had wonderful conversations throughout the day — but they were never obtrusive when we were doing "family stuff." They took us as close as possible to the spot where we indicated we wanted to drop the ashes and after our ceremony, they served a very nice lunch. Afterwards, with the help of some afternoon winds, were able to experience a beautiful sail back to the marina. I heartily recommend Sail Channel Islands. We had an exceptional day that we will never forget.
Written August 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
B T
1 contribution
Sep 2024 • Friends
We had a great time sailing with Captain Dan and Mark. The weather turned out to be perfect and we enjoyed learning about the area and the boat. Stuart enjoyed having the opportunity to swap stories and sail the boat for a bit.
Written September 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maria A
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Friends
I have been a friend of Capt Dan for several years, but started as a client with a young man on the Autism Spectrum to teach him the way of the water with Sailing lessons.... he was not only a magnificent teacher and mentor to this young man, but very patient and understanding throughout the span of time ( approximately 1.5 years) that we sailed together and his knowledge and understanding of the vessels that he sails on is second nature to him, like he is one with the boat. Each and every time I have had the pleasure of going out with him, I drive home as if I have experienced a massage and therapy session all in one. You would be unable to find an experienced sailor such as Capt Dan at "Sail Channel Islands " and his ever attentive crew.
Written August 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
g3
1 contribution
Sep 2022
Former (reformed) sailboat owner here; spouse and I grew up crewing the sailboats our fathers owned. We also have multiple bareboat charter experiences in the BVI, Santa Barbara Channel, & San Diego. Sailing a crewed charter with Captain Dan & Boson Dennis is hands down the most relaxing, enjoyable, value add time we’ve ever spent on the water.
Just came off our second 6-day charter with them on Sancerre, a stunningly fitted up Jeanneau 46.5 sloop, celebrating our 45th Anniversary. This itinerary became Santa Barbara Island, Catalina Harbor, and Santa Cruz’s Scorpion Harbor (because weather). We’ve circumnavigated the western five Channel Islands (also 6 days) and just Santa Cruz (3 days) with Sail Channel Islands in the past. Plus a number of day sail trips to Anacapa Island on Wiley, the Catalina 36 they use for day trips & sailing lessons.
Why a crewed charter when we have the skill and confidence to go it alone?
#3: Actually completely and safely outfitted vessels, no shortcuts, no surprises. They’re along for the trip so your and their safety is paramount.
#2: Sleep through the night, Dan has an Anchor Alarm (two actually, it's his boat after all), uses them, & he’s the one that gets up if a response is needed, no matter the weather. Your help is welcome if you desire but not expected (true of all the sailing tasks).
(drumroll)
#1: NO HOLE IN THE WATER to pour money into. Yes it’s a luxury level expense but still way less so than ownership, and better than fitting up a couple gear supplement duffels to take along for that bareboat (bare bones) charter experience.
Guaranteed we’ll be back (again)!
Just came off our second 6-day charter with them on Sancerre, a stunningly fitted up Jeanneau 46.5 sloop, celebrating our 45th Anniversary. This itinerary became Santa Barbara Island, Catalina Harbor, and Santa Cruz’s Scorpion Harbor (because weather). We’ve circumnavigated the western five Channel Islands (also 6 days) and just Santa Cruz (3 days) with Sail Channel Islands in the past. Plus a number of day sail trips to Anacapa Island on Wiley, the Catalina 36 they use for day trips & sailing lessons.
Why a crewed charter when we have the skill and confidence to go it alone?
#3: Actually completely and safely outfitted vessels, no shortcuts, no surprises. They’re along for the trip so your and their safety is paramount.
#2: Sleep through the night, Dan has an Anchor Alarm (two actually, it's his boat after all), uses them, & he’s the one that gets up if a response is needed, no matter the weather. Your help is welcome if you desire but not expected (true of all the sailing tasks).
(drumroll)
#1: NO HOLE IN THE WATER to pour money into. Yes it’s a luxury level expense but still way less so than ownership, and better than fitting up a couple gear supplement duffels to take along for that bareboat (bare bones) charter experience.
Guaranteed we’ll be back (again)!
Written September 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David Gallup
2 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
An honor and a privilege to sail with these guys. A first rate ship, a good natured crew, and a captain with a lifetime of experience and a passion for sailing. I’d give more stars if I could!!
We went out for Father’s Day. My kids will never forget sailing the ship under Captain Dan’s instruction in some pretty good winds (25 kts +), and we felt so safe the whole time, even when it got adventurous!
We saw a shark and some dolphins, and learned much more than we expected to under this fun and experienced teacher. WE WILL BE BACK!!
We went out for Father’s Day. My kids will never forget sailing the ship under Captain Dan’s instruction in some pretty good winds (25 kts +), and we felt so safe the whole time, even when it got adventurous!
We saw a shark and some dolphins, and learned much more than we expected to under this fun and experienced teacher. WE WILL BE BACK!!
Written June 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trq
1 contribution
Jan 2023 • Friends
Excellent experience taking lessons with Captain Dan.
He was thorough, patient, but no nonsense and fully practical. Online scheduling was quick and convenient and simple. His boats are well maintained and a pleasure to be on.
I absolutely recommend Sail Channel Islands as the best of the best for lessons or charter cruising. The islands are one of a kind place and this is the expert you will want to take you there.
He was thorough, patient, but no nonsense and fully practical. Online scheduling was quick and convenient and simple. His boats are well maintained and a pleasure to be on.
I absolutely recommend Sail Channel Islands as the best of the best for lessons or charter cruising. The islands are one of a kind place and this is the expert you will want to take you there.
Written February 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GulliverGo
San Diego4 contributions
Aug 2021
We were fortunate to sail with Capt Dan and his Bosun Dennis (first mate and chef) on their 42 foot "Sancerre" for 5 days in the Channel Islands. We witnessed the most fantastic whale sighting with two Humpback whales following us close enough we were almost able to touch them. Lots of sightings of dolphins, seals, sea lions, and especially the Elephant Seals. Capt Dan's knowledge of all the sea life is enormous. We got to all the islands and had some wonderful sailing. We certainly would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone, novice or not.
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chase B
4 contributions
Nov 2021 • Solo
This is hands down the best experience I had in California. I came out here on short notice, and Captain Dan went above and beyond to make sure I got out there on the water. The dolphins came right up and swam next to the boat! I can’t wait to come back again. Thanks Captain Dan!
Written November 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anne O
4 contributions
May 2022
We sailed with Captain Dan in May 2022 and cannot say enough great things about Captain Dan! We learned so much and are plotting our return to attain our ASA 104 certification. Although I was quite nervous, he was patient and kind while being straight forward and easy to understand. Plus he has a great sense of humor that matched well with my husband’s. Thank you Captain Dan for sharing your immense sailing knowledge and for a memorable, fun experience! Bob and I will be back!
Written August 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
shannon805
Newbury Park, CA9 contributions
Nov 2021
This was my second time sailing with Captain Dan, and it was just as wonderful as the first time. The organization and communication leading up to the trip was excellent, and the sail itself was magical. I knew I was in the hands of seasoned professionals, and my friend and I enjoyed every moment. Thank you, Captain Dan. I hope to be back!
Written November 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What hours do you sail? I know it's 150hr per person. We would like to sit back and enjoy. Do you offer a 2 day trip?
Written December 25, 2019
I sail from sunrise to sunset, but I recommend starting your sailing day about noon. Of course, if you want to take a run to the Channel Islands, we've got to start earlier --- normally about 10:00.
I offer overnight trips from one to four nights. The fee is $1595/day, so a one night trip is $3190.
I'm out on charter until 1/1/2020 but you can book online.
Or wait until I'm home and call 805-750-7828
//dan
Written December 27, 2019
How much for a weekend trip? What days are available for a two hour trip? We would like to sail before new year's. Susan Heath. 619-997-5521.
Written December 25, 2019
Hi, Susan --
I'd love to take you, but I'm out on charter until 1-1-20.
Please contact my colleague Capt. Rob at (805) 701-6811
Written December 27, 2019
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