Berkeley to San Mateo by boat

Pilotage Plan: Berkeley, CA to San Mateo, CA

Overview

This journey from Berkeley to San Mateo takes you through the scenic San Francisco Bay, featuring both stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. This route is particularly suitable for experienced recreational boaters, where nature and urban adventure coexist. As you navigate these waters, prioritizing safety is key, given changing weather conditions and traffic in the bay.

Starting Point: Berkeley, CA

Coordinates: 37.8678° N, 122.3151° W Start your adventure at the picturesque Berkeley Marina, which offers facility access, fueling stations, and nearby amenities. Before setting off, ensure to check the weather and wave conditions as the bay can be busy, especially during weekends.

Key Points Along the Route

1. Berkeley to Richmond Inner Harbor

Approx. Distance: 8.5 nautical miles As you set off, head southwest towards the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, maintaining a safe distance from the bridge piers. Pay attention to the navigational aids—such as buoys marking the channel—along with potential vessel traffic, especially ferries operating regularly in this busy section.

2. Richmond Inner Harbor to Point San Pablo

Approx. Distance: 3 nautical miles Navigating past Point San Pablo, you may experience varied conditions influenced by tides and winds. This area can also be a good spot to take a short break if needed, as sheltered anchorages become available. Keep an eye out for local fishing vessels and be mindful of their activity.

3. Point San Pablo to San Francisco Bay

Approx. Distance: 10 nautical miles Upon entering San Francisco Bay, you will be greeted by amazing views of Marin County to the north and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the west. As you cross the bay, maintain a lookout for other recreational boats as well as larger commercial vessels transiting the main shipping channels.

4. Sausalito and Angel Island State Park

Approx. Distance: 5 nautical miles Consider stopping in Sausalito, a charming town with waterfront dining and boutique shopping. The nearby Angel Island offers hiking trails and picnic spots, making it an excellent day stop if time allows. Remember to monitor weather updates, particularly winds that can funnel through the Bay Area, creating choppy waters.

5. Enter the South Bay

The route will take you past Alcatraz Island to your right and into the southern parts of the San Francisco Bay. Keep a watch on navigation charts and adjust for tidal currents that are more pronounced in this area. Continuing onward toward Redwood City will soon bring you to the final leg of your journey.

Notable Navigation Considerations

• Tides and Currents: The Bay has strong tidal flows that can significantly affect your speed and handling. Always check tide tables and plan your departures accordingly.

• Traffic Separation Schemes: Be particularly vigilant while navigating through the busy channels. The San Francisco Bay has designated traffic lanes, so use those if possible, and always yield to larger vessels.

• Weather Conditions: Be prepared for sudden weather changes. The Bay can experience fog, wind, and swift currents. Have local weather apps handy for real-time updates. Recommended apps include Savvy Navvy, which provides comprehensive routes and real-time data.

• Restricted Areas: Pay attention to local environmental regulations, particularly regarding sensitive habitats in the bay, and the no-wake areas around marinas and certain wildlife zones.

Shelter Options

If conditions change or you feel the need for a safe harbor, the following bays are highly recommended:
• Angel Island: Provides multiple sheltered coves.
• Sausalito: Offers well-protected marinas with access to facilities.
• Redwood City: A good final stop with all amenities and calm waters.

Conclusion

This pilotage plan delivers an engaging and leisurely cruising route from Berkeley to San Mateo, integrating navigation safety with opportunities for exploration along the way. Always remain vigilant, respect local rules and natural conditions, and enjoy the exquisite beauty of the San Francisco Bay throughout your journey. Safe sailing!