Berkeley to Half Moon Bay by boat

Pilotage Plan: Berkeley, CA to Half Moon Bay, CA

Route OverviewEmbarking from the vibrant shores of Berkeley, California, this exciting journey to the picturesque coastline of Half Moon Bay offers a mix of scenic views, potential harbors for refuge, and notable points of interest. This route is particularly suitable for experienced skippers and recreational boaters looking for a blend of adventure and safety on the beautiful waters of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Sections of the Route

1. Departure from Berkeley

Starting your journey at Berkeley Marina, it's essential to navigate carefully while departing from the harbor. The marina is bustling with sailing and boating activities, so watch for other boats. Keeping a safe distance from navigation markers, ensuring you have your navigation charts, and following charts showing depths and obstruction areas in the estuary will help you leave the marina safely.

Local Point of Interest: As you depart, you might want to take a moment to enjoy the distant views of the San Francisco skyline and Mount Tamalpais.

2. Traversing San Francisco Bay

Your first leg will take you across the San Francisco Bay. Opt for the main shipping channels, marked by buoys and ranges. Here, the water can be choppy, especially during windy days, so consider your timing to avoid strong currents.

Navigational Aids:

• Raccoon Strait is a notable passage; stay alert for maritime traffic and respect any restricting buoys indicating the shipping lanes.
• Angel Island is a great stopping point to stretch your legs and take in stunning views while allowing for exploration of the park.

3. Point San Pedro

Continue south past Point San Pedro. Keep a watchful eye on the water depth as it can change rapidly. Keep to the deeper waters unless familiar with local shallows.

Hazards: Be aware of commercial traffic as you approach the southwestern part of San Francisco Bay. The currents can be swift, particularly near the San Mateo Bridge, so adjust your speed accordingly.

Shelter Opportunities: In the event of rough weather, the northern section of Coyote Point provides a safe harbor and is well-marked with a marina. It’s also a good spot to stop for a meal and refuel.

4. Coastline and Entering Pacific Ocean

As you navigate out of the Bay into the Pacific Ocean, check weather reports, as conditions can change rapidly. Make sure to adhere to any resurfacing regulations and pay attention to local marine bulletins.

Points of Interest:

• Moss Beach is a lovely area where you can anchor down for lunch or a beach day provided the weather is calm. The tide pools are fascinating at low tide.
• Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay offers additional marina facilities if you prefer not to dock at your final destination immediately.

5. Arrival at Half Moon Bay

As you approach Half Moon Bay, you'll be met with lovely landscapes and coastal views. The harbor is well-marked but keep an eye out for surf conditions as you approach the mouth.

Navigational Aids: Pillar Point Lighthouse provides a great visual reference to assist you in lining up for entry into Half Moon Bay Harbor. Following the main navigation channels will ensure you avoid shallow areas.

Restrictions & Regulations:

• Adhere to any no-wake zones while inside the harbor and around the marinas.
• Check local codes for any specific prohibited activities or guidelines for anchoring overnight.

Essential Tools and Resources

To ensure a smooth and safe journey, aiming for an experience filled with enjoyment while prioritizing safety, consider downloading these boating apps:
• Savvy Navvy: Offers comprehensive navigation tools, including tides, currents, and points of interest, perfect for planning your route.
• Navionics: Provides detailed marine charts and a community-powered resource for navigating through the intricacies of the bay.
• Windy: An excellent app for real-time weather tracking, making sure you stay informed about changing conditions.

Overall, this route from Berkeley to Half Moon Bay is perfect for seasoned sailors and recreational boaters who appreciate beautiful coastal landscapes while ensuring safety. Keep an eye on the weather, respect navigation rules, and above all, enjoy the exhilarating experience on the water!