Sailing in San Diego can be a fun experience for any boat lover and something to remember forever. With plenty of sunshine, Southern California is the ultimate destination for sailing. However, whether you are out to watch whales or catch some rays on a sandy white beach, you don’t want any mishaps to occur. Here are some safety tips for sailing in San Diego to help ensure you and your passengers have a great time.
Where To Go Sailing in San Diego
The two primary locations for sailing in San Diego are San Diego Bay and Mission Bay. If you are starting out and concerned about accidents requiring you to use your boat insurance in San Diego, Mission Bay’s calmer and less-trafficked waters make it the safer choice. Sail Bay, the northwestern inlet of Mission Bay, is especially suited for beginners.
Where To Beach Your Vessel
Part of the fun of sailing is to anchor your vessel and enjoy the water from the shore. You can beach your boat in Mission Bay, but you must be careful that your chosen area does not have a special designation. Watch for signs and avoid the following:
- The north end of Fiesta Island
- Swimming areas
- Waterski takeoff and landing zones
- Anywhere along the ocean except the La Jolla Shores boat ramp
How Fast To Sail
While it may be exhilarating to cruise along at 10 knots, maintaining your yacht insurance in San Diego requires following the speed limit. Five miles per hour is the top allowable speed in these areas:
- Within 100 feet of a person swimming or surfing
- Within 200 feet of a beach
- Within 1,000 feet of the oceanfront coastline
- Near bridges and other vessels
- Anywhere in Mission Bay from sunset to sunrise
Who Can Operate a Boat
Most people need a California boater card showing they have passed a required safety course to operate a boat in California. If you do not live in California, you must show proof of boating authorization from your home state. Children under 12 may not drive, and those aged 12 to 16 must have an adult at least 18 years old supervising them. And, of course, no one should ever drive after drinking alcoholic beverages.
What To Bring Sailing in San Diego
Be sure to bring appropriate footwear and a change of clothes in bad weather. Pack plenty of food and water, and replenish supplies in your first aid kit before departing. The law requires that you also have the following safety items on board:
- Life jackets for each passenger and at least one flotation device you can throw
- Fire extinguisher
- Lights
- Horn
- Distress signal
While telling your passengers the rules is not always a fun way to start a trip, with a bit of tact, you can make them understand that adhering to these sailing safety tips will help make your vacation the best it can be. By planning to stay safe, you can have a wonderful time sailing in San Diego without the unnecessary stress of an accident.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
