September 19, 2023 – The term “classic Santa Cruz” brings many things to mind—spending time on the ocean, exploring the redwoods, marveling at the wildlife or savoring the region’s foods and drinks. Sailing on Chardonnay II provides a special way to tap into local sights, sounds and flavors that make up a classic Santa Cruz experience.
Chardonnay II is operated by Chardonnay Sailing Charters, which has offered public and private tours in Monterey Bay since 1984. For the first seven years, the company operated a smaller vessel, Chardonnay I, at 50 feet.
Today’s vessel is an iconic Santa Cruz ‘70 ultra-light displacement sailing yacht designed for ocean racing and custom built by the legendary Bill Lee at his Hilltop Yachts in Soquel in the 1980s. Although built for speed, it has been retrofitted to provide a stable and safe ride for passengers.
Chardonnay II goes out daily on different themed cruises along the coastline, featuring some of the region’s favorite libations and locations.
Departing from the harbor, the ship passes other vessels like kayakers, fishing boats and outrigger racing canoes on the two-hour journey along the coastline. Cruising around the bay offers a fresh, sometimes up-close perspective of definitive landmarks—the wharf and its enclaves of boisterous, barking sea lions, the boardwalk buzzing with activity and blinking lights and Steamer Lane with its legendary lighthouse and surfers waiting for waves.
“Seeing Santa Cruz and the Santa Cruz Mountains from the unique perspective of the Monterey Bay sanctuary is truly an unforgettable sight,” says Allison Pullen, Director of Operations. “We take pride in showing our guests the sunken cement ship surrounded by great white sharks, Natural Bridges and the famous surfers paradise: Steamer Lane in all its glory.”
Trips aboard the Chardonnay II are often as much about local food and drink as they are about the scenery. Morning sails call for pastries from The Buttery plus fresh fruit and coffee, orange juice, and champagne (mimosas, anyone?).
The Afternoon Pizza Cruise is the most popular, offering a variety of pizzas from Upper Crust (BBQ chicken is a must-try) plus Woodhouse beer on tap, wines from Shoppers Corner, and soft drinks.
When evening comes, Chardonnay II sets out to soak in the sunset, complete with cheese and charcuterie boards, veggie platters, and draft beers, wines and sodas.
Chardonnay Sailing Charters also provide a number of seasonal, special experiences. Sailing aficionados can get up-close to the regatta races on Wednesday nights, while wildlife enthusiasts are whisked away for a morning of watching whales, otters, and other critters.
Beer and wine lovers can meet local makers and taste their creations on local beer- and wine-themed cruises, and the Taste of Santa Cruz brings culinary delights of various local eateries onboard.
“We enjoy nothing more than highlighting and serving the best food and beverage that our community has to offer while enjoying the beautiful Santa Cruz coastline,” says operations manager Sophia Brock. “We are truly lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful wineries, microbreweries and amazing restaurants!”
Chardonnay II sails have become a tradition among residents and visitors alike, known for a lively ride, the tour of iconic spots and food/drink favorites. But the energy and passion of the crew are in part what makes the experience so memorable.
It is no easy feat to serve dozens of people food and drink while on a boat. But they do it with ease and grace—reveling in an ongoing balancing act while deftly hopping across the vessel, serving frosty beers and piping pies, while keeping the ship afloat, of course. And when crowd pleasers like Abba’s “Dancing Queen” come on the speakers, the crew joins passengers in singing and dancing along to the music.
Crew members are also happy to share their passion for and knowledge of the open seas. From educating curious passengers about key sailing terms and how to remember them, to recounting their own introductions to ships and the ocean, the joys of sailing quickly become contagious.
“I didn’t live on land until I was 15, and my dad still lives on a ship out here in the bay,” says crew member Cullem Phillips. “I always wondered if I’d get tired of answering sailing questions or talking about cruising and living aboard…but I never do! It’s always fun to see something about the mechanics of sailing click after something you say, or see someone realize sailing is much more approachable than they thought!”
For schedules visit chardonnay.com.
Know before you go:
- Get there early to leave time for parking and check-in (ship departs promptly)
- Dress warmly and/or bring a jacket
- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses (hats may blow off in the wind)
About the author
Ashley Drew Owen is a writer and Massachusetts transplant. Her passion for learning about local food is only overshadowed by her passion for writing about or eating it. Safe to say, she is a lover of food and words, and also driving very fast in the left lane.
