O’Neill Yacht Charters
O’Neill Yacht Charters
5
Boat Tours • Private Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours
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12:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Monday
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
12:00 PM - 6:45 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Thursday
10:30 AM - 6:45 PM
Friday
10:30 AM - 6:45 PM
Saturday
10:30 AM - 6:45 PM
Sunday
10:30 AM - 6:45 PM
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About
Experience an exciting sailing adventure aboard the luxurious 65' Team O'Neill catamaran on the Monterey Bay! Sailing activities include afternoon cruises, sunset sails, local wine and beer tastings, seasonal firework cruises, live music sails and wildlife tours, each offering an exceptionally smooth and thrilling experience. Sailing enthusiasts and newbies alike will enjoy sailing along the Santa Cruz coastline, whether it's a family day out on a public sail or special occasion aboard a private charter.
Santa Cruz, California
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Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
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O’Neill Yacht Charters
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(26 reviews)
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
386 reviews
Excellent
360
Very good
18
Average
7
Poor
1
Terrible
2
Barbra B
Santa Cruz, CA76 contributions
Jul 2019
Have sailed with O'Neill catamaran many times over the years. A sunset sail is very special but be sure to book ahead in the summer months to avoid disappointment.
Took my mother ( 80's) out once and she loved it , but do not know if crew is able to assist c wheel chair ( she is ambulatory.) There are severa; good eating spots around the harbor so would recommend dinner post cruise, but wine tasting sails are great !
O'Neill foundation takes out many school age children/classes at no cost and gives a great deal back to the community and ocean conservation and the planet
Thanks Jack !!
Took my mother ( 80's) out once and she loved it , but do not know if crew is able to assist c wheel chair ( she is ambulatory.) There are severa; good eating spots around the harbor so would recommend dinner post cruise, but wine tasting sails are great !
O'Neill foundation takes out many school age children/classes at no cost and gives a great deal back to the community and ocean conservation and the planet
Thanks Jack !!
Written March 5, 2020
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.
Camille W
Santa Rosa, CA1 contribution
Aug 2021
Great experience. Brought our own food/beverages, and the crew was super helpful throughout the charter. I booked a private charter for my sister and 22 of her closest friends as a Bachelorette activity, and the number of people chipping in really made the cost minimal compared to the quality of experience. I’m already looking for a reason to book again!
Written August 23, 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.
jjb831
Soquel, CA19 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
The Crew and Captain Steve were excellent as always. The new catamaran boat is a beauty! We love it.
The sail was smooth as we navigated west from the harbor, up around the SC wharf, along west cliff and then went east towards the Pleasure Point area. We got lucky to see a small whale cruising through the area, and Captain Steve did a great job navigating the boat to follow the whale at a safe distance. We did a few circles and saw the whale surface about 3 or 4 times. The guests on the boat all seemed to be having a good time.
We highly recommend the sailing experience on the O'Neill Yacht, and feel confident you will have a good experience.
The sail was smooth as we navigated west from the harbor, up around the SC wharf, along west cliff and then went east towards the Pleasure Point area. We got lucky to see a small whale cruising through the area, and Captain Steve did a great job navigating the boat to follow the whale at a safe distance. We did a few circles and saw the whale surface about 3 or 4 times. The guests on the boat all seemed to be having a good time.
We highly recommend the sailing experience on the O'Neill Yacht, and feel confident you will have a good experience.
Written July 9, 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.
Sclocal84
Aptos, CA2 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
I’ve been fortunate to have sailed with the O’Neill Yacht Charter team about a dozen times over the last decade on public cruises, and most recently to scatter my Fathers remains in the Monterey Bay. Every experience included stunning views & smooth and relaxing sailing but my biggest compliment is to the outstanding staff. I’ve received exemplary customer service each step of the way from the making each reservations to boarding and sailing to leaving the dock and being thanked by staff as they hold open the gate.
When scattering my Father’s ashes, they were professional and courteous, treating all our guests like family. The captain turned the yacht so we could empty the urns into the wind rather than against, something I wouldn’t have thought of and am so glad they have expertise in this area.
The public sails allow you to be in the middle of the Wednesday night regattas, watch the sunset from sea, celebrate all kinds of occasions or just get some wind in your hair and see a different view of the coast. The staff is professional, courteous but still has that laid back Santa Cruz vibe. And they upgraded to a bigger and more comfortable yacht!!!
When scattering my Father’s ashes, they were professional and courteous, treating all our guests like family. The captain turned the yacht so we could empty the urns into the wind rather than against, something I wouldn’t have thought of and am so glad they have expertise in this area.
The public sails allow you to be in the middle of the Wednesday night regattas, watch the sunset from sea, celebrate all kinds of occasions or just get some wind in your hair and see a different view of the coast. The staff is professional, courteous but still has that laid back Santa Cruz vibe. And they upgraded to a bigger and more comfortable yacht!!!
Written December 2, 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.
Trashsista H
2 contributions
Jul 2021
I’ve always kayaked past the O’Neill catamaran whenever I visit the SCruz harbor. This time was my chance to suck it up and take a fun adventure! A 90 year old was celebrating his birthday, kids were loving the lounge net, patrons had a drink while whale watching. I got a quick glimpse before I started feeding the fish! The crew hands were VERY accommodating with glasses of water, napkins amd suggestions of “ Look at the horizon, you’ll feel
Better.” All in all, I’d recommend this to all sea goers... even ones with no sea legs. Had a great time!
Valerie ( fish feeder) Hetherington
Better.” All in all, I’d recommend this to all sea goers... even ones with no sea legs. Had a great time!
Valerie ( fish feeder) Hetherington
Written July 2, 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.
NorCaltr33guy
1 contribution
Jul 2021 • Family
This is a beautiful boat, with a good crew. The thing rides over the waves with ease, taming the swells of the be Monterrey Bay. It is a must do experience. Watch the ocean go by underneath the webbing on the bow, or go into the cabin to get out of the wind and enjoy refreshments from the bar. Sailing nerds can hang by the cockpit and watch the crew tack and jibe across the bay.
Written July 12, 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.
MadhuriRamanathan
Sunnyvale, CA1 contribution
Jul 2022
We had an absolutely fabulous time on the boat. The captain and crew were awesome and really made the effort to get our party setup/torn down, video loaded, music connected and kept us on not-too-choppy water (as some folks were queasy) for the full 2 hours, despite a few in our party running late. Had gorgeous sunny, warm, blue skies afternoon. I am very glad we went with your charter service for our event! In fact, we misplaced a bag of jackets and frisbees and the crew found it outside the launch gates, 2 days after our event and even found a gift envelope stuck between a few seat cushions after the event. I rarely give 5 star rating as something can always be done better, but on this date, everything was perfect!
Written July 12, 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.
Stephen S
4 contributions
Jul 2022
This is the real deal.
We love sailing and with charters you never know what to expect. O’Neill cranks it up and you get a real catamaran experience. We averaged 10-12 knots and wind/waves was exhilarating.
Make sure you dress warm and a wind breaker is recommended. If I had children, I’d hang on to them.
This is great opportunity. We loved it.
We love sailing and with charters you never know what to expect. O’Neill cranks it up and you get a real catamaran experience. We averaged 10-12 knots and wind/waves was exhilarating.
Make sure you dress warm and a wind breaker is recommended. If I had children, I’d hang on to them.
This is great opportunity. We loved it.
Written July 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.
CarolY
Soquel, CA3 contributions
Apr 2023
If you haven't sailed on the O'Neill Yacht, book your sail now. There is nothing like being out on the bay! The yacht is a catamaran, so it is much more stable than a traditional sailboat. It's very safe. They have drinks to purchase on board. Captain Mike and the crew, Brie and Liz, are experienced, friendly and knowledgeable. I think this was my 10th sail on the O'Neill Yacht and I can't wait for my 11th!!
Written April 11, 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.
Hi Carol! Thank you very much for leaving such a fantastic review!
We're thrilled to hear that you've enjoyed sailing with us so frequently — it's always such a pleasure to have you aboard! It's also wonderful to hear that you appreciate the stability, safety, and comfortability of the Team O'Neill. Those aspects were definitely top-of-mind when we were custom building this catamaran!
We're so glad that Captain Mike, Bre, and Liz helped make your last experience both enjoyable and memorable, and we can't wait to welcome you back on board for your next sail!
Written April 17, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lostintheredwoods
Santa Cruz, CA1 contribution
May 2022
We went sailing on the Sunday of Memorial Weekend. We had a big group of 9 children and adults on a very windy day. Steve captain was very clear about the safety expectations and super friendly. The eintire crew did a fantastic job taking care of everyone on the boat. Our cups were full will beer and our tummys were full of pizza. And the balance that the crew members displayed during the windy sail was IMPRESSIVE to say the least. We loved out sail and would reccommend it to everyone. We can wait to come back. Thank you!
Written June 1, 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.
easypay5
Thousand Oaks, CA1 contribution
Are you doing sailings between 11/7 and 11/11 this year?
Thank you,
John
OYC_1952
Santa Cruz, CA
Hi John,
Thank you for your question and interest in sailing with us! Our public sails run annually April–October, though we do offer private charters year-round. Please feel free to email or call us directly for more details about our sails.
Thank you and hope to sail with you soon!
- Jenny @ O'Neill Yacht Charters
Can I see dolfin in the afternoon?
OYC_1952
Santa Cruz, CA
Hi Viviana,
Thank you for your question! We have seen dolphins many times during our afternoon sails, however we can't guarantee any specific wildlife spotting during the charter. Although we always do our best to sail in areas where you'd be more likely to spot them, along with other wildlife, so we hope to sail with you soon!
Thank you,
Jenny @ O'Neill Yacht Charters
We are interested in your service on Tuesday, July 10th. Can you let me know if you are open that day and what sailing experiences you offer? We don’t need a private sail. There are 4 of us, 2 adults and 2 children. Also, if you are open that day, please send me pricing.
My cell is (801)859-1220
Thank you!
Desiree
OYC_1952
Santa Cruz, CA
Hi Desiree!
Thank you for your question and interest in sailing with us aboard the Team O'Neill catamaran on Tuesday, July 10. We currently have availability for your group on our 1-Hour Daytime Sail departing at 5 PM. Tickets for this sail are $22/person and children ages 0-4 sail for free.
If you'd like to make a reservation, please feel free to call us at (831) 818-3645 or purchase tickets online on our website.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Thank you,
Jenny @ O'Neill Yacht Charters
Brenda H
Modesto, California, United States4 contributions
I am interested in an evening sail Sept 22,2016 a Thursday I have a group attending a class in Scotts Valley and thought it would be a nice way to end a long day in class, I want to offer it to the whole class and would like to know if you can take out 10 to 30 + and what the cost would be. Our class ends at 5 so it would take us about an hour to get to the dock and b ready. I can be reached at 209 324 0589
OYC_1952
Santa Cruz, CA
Hi Brenda,
Thank you for your question and we'd love to have your group aboard! For our public sails, the cost is $20-40 per person, depending on the type of sail that you book for. If you're looking to do a private event, our current rate is $900/hour plus tax with a 2-hour minimum, however we also offer a 1.5-Hour Mid-Week Special Rate. Please see our private charter details on our website.
I'll be getting in touch with you shortly via phone to discuss any questions you may have, as well as our availability.
Thank you!
- Your OYC Staff
7/15/16
6205
California74 contributions
There would be about 24 all together. What are the prices for this charter cruise? Is sunset the best time in July? Thanks.
Regards,
Judy Botti
OYC_1952
Santa Cruz, CA
Hi Judy,
Thank you for your question! Our public sail tickets range in price from $20 to $40 depending on the event. If inquiring about a private charter, please contact us directly via phone or email, or check out our website for more info.
Additionally, sunset is a great time to be out on the water, especially during the peak of summer in July!
Thank you!
Jenny @ OYC
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