How to Enjoy “Opening Day on the Bay”
“Opening Day on the Bay” is one of the most widely-anticipated and most fun days on the Bay, with over 100 historic boats participating in the Blessing of the Fleet and Boat Parade.
Inspire Sailing is offering a 15% discount on all charters during the weekend of April 23-24 to help you get out on the water and enjoy the festivities.
Here’s our guide to help you navigate the weekend!
Saturday, April 23 — “Kick-off Party”
We’re so excited here at Inspire Sailing that we’re starting the celebration early! We are co-hosting a “kick-off” party with the Berkeley Yacht Club on Saturday! Here are the details:
Saturday, April 23
4:00pm to 9:00pm
At the Berkeley Yacht Club
Food, drinks (cash bar), entertainment
Be sure to RSVP here.
Sunday, April 24 — “Opening Day on the Bay”
Are you lucky enough to be on a boat for “Opening Day”? Here are some tips to navigate the iconic day:
Blessing of the Fleet: Starting at 10:00am, vessels sail or motor through Raccoon Straits for a blessing, which marks the official opening of the sailing season in San Francisco Bay.
Boat Parade: Decorated boats of all shapes, sizes, and types parade along the city front from Golden Gate Bridge to Pier 39, starting at 12:00pm. (Registration is required to participate; viewing from safe distance is free.)
Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association: PICYA is the organizer of “Opening Day on the Bay” activities. Visit their website for details about the Blessing of the Fleet and the Boat Parade.
Many local yacht clubs and historic sailing vessels host “Opening Day on the Bay” events both on and off the water.
Here are a few ideas, but be sure to call the hosts for details on pricing and logistics.
Corinthian Yacht Club: The official Blessing of the Fleet happens in front of the Corinthian in Raccoon Straits starting at 10:00am. Call for details at (415) 435-4771.
Sausalito Yacht Club: The SYC race committee vessel “Mercury” will be meeting boats at 9:15am in front of Spinnaker Restaurant. From there, boats will follow “Mercury” to Raccoon Straights for the Blessing of the Fleet in front of the Corinthian Yacht Club. The SYC will also be hosting a BBQ on the club deck all day, with music by Greg Dayton from 1:00pm to 3:00pm, and The Cruise Tones dance band from 3:30pm-7:30pm. Volunteers needed! Call (415) 332-7400 for details.
St. Francis Yacht Club: StFYC is hosting a brunch at 11:00am and jam session at 3:00pm! Call (415) 563-6363 for details.
Local historic sailing ships like the schooner Freda B and the wooden brigantine Matthew Turner take passengers out for a day sail to watch the on-the-water events.
SF City front: Another option is to grab a coffee, pick your vantage point between Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, and enjoy the day from shore!
Don’t forget — Charters at Inspire Sailing are 15% off all weekend! Book a charter and get out there for a front row seat!
