Capt. Rob took great care of us. The wind looked light when we headed out, but we got to the Golden Gate Bridge under engine power, then caught some wind on the return and was able to sail close to Alcatraz and then back across the bay to return to Tiburon. I will be recommending Sail San Fran to visiting friends and family who want to experience sailing on the bay. Also, the Hawk's Nest is beautiful and very comfortable. read more

We had such an amazing day with Captain Rob. Everything about our sailing was fantastic! If you're looking for a great day of sailing, you won't be disappointed going with Captain Rob! We will definitely book with him again! read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

Captain Rob offers the finest of San Francisco sailing charters. SF Bay can be an intimidating place to sail with sometimes challenging winds and waves. Rob's continuous emphasis on safety and comfort is admirable. He's a knowledgeable sailor, allowing the guests to sail at whatever level suits them, whether you are a complete novice or an experienced sailor. A very fine operation. And the snacks platter at the end of the sail is second to none! read more

Captain Rob and his team are amazing hosts and sail exceptionally well. They allowed all who were interested in steering the boat to do so. All requests to see certain SF Bay area landmarks were accommodated. This included sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge and around the back side of Alcatraz. He also provided complimentary (and excellent quality) wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and an incredible snack tray. I felt safe and well cared for on the journey. I absolutely recommend hiring the Hawks Nest for a charter experience on the SF Bay. Enjoy! read more

Captain Rob is an outstanding sailor. He is very kind and accommodating to his guests.I have sailed with him at least thirty times. It is always a totally delightful experience. read more

I've been out on Rob's beautiful boat twice, with two different groups. Rob has extraordinary skills as a host: easy going, generous, entertaining, and he makes sure that *everyone* has a good time. He's a great skipper, too. The Hawk's Nest is a real pleasure to sail. I can't recommend it highly enough. read more

Sail San Fran - A gorgeous time was had by all! - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

Enjoy a perfect day on the bay aboard the Hawks Nest with Captain Rob! Launch from Tiburon aboard this impeccable sail boat that is clean, roomy and comfortable. See all the sights from Sausalito, Golden Gate Bridge, SAn Francisco city skyline, Angel Island and raccoon straights. Expert sailor who is professional, knowledgeable and friendly! read more

See all

Captain Rob is the best! Not only does he take care of his boat like it's his baby (clean, well stocked, everything in perfect condition), but his attention to detail with regard to our comfort was admirable. He's knowledgeable about the area. We all got opportunities to help if we wanted. So fun!!! I can't wait to go again. read more

About a year ago 5 friends went out for a wonderful sail with Capt Bob and his wife. The Sloop was immaculate and their seamanship and good company were great. We are now looking to sign on for 2 more sails, one in August and one in September. We are seasoned sailors and have tried other companies, and this was the best by far. We were impressed by their calm, sensible reaction to the Blue Whale who brushed past and under us as we were departing our lunch spot near Angel Island. Pat T Palo Alto read more

We had the best day out ever, sailing around the Bays with Captain Rob! Fun, relaxing and a safe way to socialize with your friends and family!! Can't wait to book another voyage! read more

Captain Rob is the best! We had a blast aboard the Hawk's Nest. Great deal for 3 hours of sailing + drinks around the Bay. Will definitely be doing this again! read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

WOW sailing the Bay is such an adventure especially on the Hawks Nest with Captian Rob. Half our party wanted a leisurely kick back experience and the other half wanted the adventure of learning how to sail. Captian Rob really catered to both and exceeded our expectations. He included us in the planning of our trip and showed us a unique side of the bay one couldn't have experience unless on the water. My party is still talking about it and three of us are planning on taking sailing lessions. I highly recommend chartering with Captian Rob on the Hawks Nest for a teasured adventure. Wonderful boat, awesome captian, guide & collaborator with the best views of GG, SF, Alcatraz, Angel Island & Sausalito. read more

Superb experience, attentiveness from Captain Rob, and a fabulous yacht!

We had the best time on Captain Rob's boat the Hawks Nest. The boat was gorgeous, clean, and had plenty of room for the 4 of us. Captain Rob had the fridge stocked with great beer, wine and soft drinks and we brought our own snacks. We felt extremely safe the entire trip, and we all got to take turns steering! We had gorgeous views of Strawberry, SF, the bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island and Belvedere. We will definitely be booking this boat again - cannot recommend it enough! read more

What a gorgeous evening! We did an evening sail on the Hawk's Nest with Capt Rob (super laid back guy). We set out at 5pm and took a sail around the Bay from Tiburon to the Golden Gate, went past the Palace of Fine Arts, then took a cruise around Alcatraz. Two of our guests had sailing experience, so Rob let them take the helm for a bit of the trip and they were ECSTATIC, about the experience and the locations we went to! The next day they said all they wanted to do was get back on the water! The cruise was perfect and very smooth (take it from someone who gets motion sickness and did just fine), and we had a fantastic time. Can't wait to get back out there! read more

See all

This was a FANTASTIC excursion for our family. A great blend of relaxation and adventure. Capt Rob tailored the experience to our wishes. We learned a lot about the Bay Area, and also about sailing. We could not be happier. Highly recommended. read more

See all

Sailing with Rob was great! We totally recommend the experience and get away and relax! We loved it

Stay in bay area is incredible, sailing in the bay area is one amazing experience that you have to do. Mike and Allie are excellent host and they know a lot of secrets and nice tips for all places that you see from the water. Good food, beberages and gorgeous sailboat. Thank you and see you soon. read more

Capt. Mike and Allie got us incredible front row seats to the San Francisco fireworks display on the Fourth of July. We set sail from Tiburon, sailed close to Angel Island and Sausalito and then got up close to he SF barges that ran the fireworks display. It was incredible. Our boys had a great time. Capt MIke and Allie were gracious hosts, helping us stay warm, take cool photographs and make great memories. Oh, and they mix a mean margarita. Highly recommend them. read more

BEST SAILING TRIP EVER! We celebrated my husbands 57th Birthday. He couldn't be happier. Beautiful sailboat, perfect day, Mike and Allie were amazing...THANK YOU for making my husbands birthday one of his best days ever. Don't hesitate to book with them. You will not be disappointed!! read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

See all

We topped off our recent team building session with a PHENOMENAL sailing trip. Mike and Allie were super hospitable, knowledgeable and FUN!!! They provided a great overview of the sights as well as some great sailing tips and tricks. I will be booking them again for team builders and for personal trips around the Bay! read more

We had a great time on Rob's boat. It was a beautiful day and the sailing was amazing. Rob's a class act...professional but fun! We got to see the bay..views of Sausalito, the Golden Gate, Alcatraz and Angle Island. Such a fun day. Would do it again. read more

"Perfect" is the only word to describe our family's afternoon of sailing with Captain Mike on the Bay! Impressive boat -- comfortable, swift, agile, and big enough for our seven adults (plus Mike and co-captain Arnie). We were served a tasty appetizer plate and a variety of beverages (beer, wine, soft drinks). We even took turns at the helm! I can say enough about our experience. I recommend Mike without reservation! read more

Captain Mike and his beautiful First-mate Allie, took us on a wonderful sailing adventure to Angel Island where we docked the boat and toured the historic island. Both, Mike and Allie, taught us so much about the area and the history of the island. The food and beverage was terrific, boat is Awesome and the crew is FUN! read more

Fantastic private charter! If you are looking for a relaxing, laid back experience, then I highly recommend them. If you are new to sailing then Capt'n Mike is happy to show you the ropes, literally! Good times. read more

Where do I start??? Great Escape Sailing Charters is a must if you're in the San Francisco area. I surprised my mom w a birthday sailing adventure and it was spectacular! It is very aparent Mike and Allie are comfortable on the water, such naturals. We felt extremely safe & right at home. Mike and Allie thought of everything, they even made a watermelon and fruit salad birthday cake for my mom (since I mentioned she doesn't enjoy desserts). I highly recommend booking w Great Escape Sailing Charters. It was a day I will treasure forever. read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

Mike and Allie offer an amazing trip on the Bay. Not only was the trip beautiful and relaxing, but they were excellent hosts as well. They prepared a delicious food tray and were very prepared to entertain with drinks and music. This was an awesome addition to our trip and I would highly recommend going out on a sail with them. Thanks Captain and First Mate! read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

What a magical time! We went sailing with Captain Mike and Allie Hawkins last weekend and it was such a wonderful experience. The views were spectacular, Mike and Allie are such gracious hosts, the boat is beautiful, from the champagne to the sea life (pelicans, dolphins, seals)- there was nowhere else I'd have rather been! Highly recommend and hope to set sail with them again soon! read more

Sail San Fran - Captain Mike and Allie Hawkins - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

See all

Captain Mike hit a grand slam for us. We went out for an evening sail on the San Francisco Bay. What an evening it was. We went with our family, 7 people, and the Hawks Nest handled all of us quite well. Captain Mike and Arnie took wonderful care of us the whole time. The temperature in the bay area that day was scorching hot and our sail was not hampered by fog or chilly conditions. Mike is quite the conversationalist as we found out. You got a question, he can answer it. He has a lot of experience sailing, since his childhood, his dad got him interested and he hasn't looked back. Hawks Nest is well kept and you just feel totally safe getting onto her. Mike keeps the boat in great shape and it shows. He provided drink and eats for all of us. I can personally attest to the "quality" of the Rum and Coke drinks that Arnie poured! We did not sail under the Golden Gate Bridge but we did go over to McCovey's cove at AT&T ballpark and went under the Bay Bridge. Mike knows the history of the bay and was engaged with us the whole time. A couple of us got to actually steer the boat and as soon as he could he cut the motor and got us under sail. The pictures in this review are a small sample of how incredible this night sail was. Could not have been better. It was an absolutely wonderful time and the price for performance was exceptional. We will do it again, for sure. read more

Sail San Fran - Evening on the Bay from Hawks Nest! - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

See all

Hawk's Nest IS "as good as it gets!" My husband and I had been to San Francisco once before and were looking for something more memorable to do, than the same tourist attractions, when we took our son there for spring break. A day sailing with Mike and Allie was just what we were looking for! They are SUPER family friendly and accommodating. Our son got a lesson in sailing while my husband and I relaxed and took in the sites of San Francisco from an exciting and fresh perspective! Their boat is beautiful and we would make the trip to San Fran again just to do another sailing trip! Thanks a TON, Mike and Allie! read more

Sail San Fran - Fabulous day on San Francisco Bay! - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

Truly a breathtaking, mesmerizing, and life-changing experience. On top of being uber friendly, funny, and personable, Mike and Allie are wonderful guides with a wealth of knowledge about the city and its history. There is nothing they don't know, and boy do they have some stories for you! By the end of your trip, you will have an unforgettable experience in your memory banks, and you will have made a couple of great friends in Mike and Allie. Your trip to San Francisco won't be nearly as memorable without A Great Escape. It would be a travesty for anyone who visits not to allow themselves this awe-inspiring experience. Mike and Allie, I can't thank you enough for this unforgettable experience. I truly will cherish it forever. You are both of the utmost awesomeness. PEOPLE: A Great Escape Sailing Charters.. do it. NOW read more

Capt. Mike took us out on the Hawk's Nest this past weekend and we couldn't have been more happy with our sail. Capt. Mike was fantastic with my family. My mom & Dad have always wanted a sailboat and they were able to ask Mike hundreds of questions about his boat and he seemed more than happy to answer them all. He took us out under the GG bridge and down to Pier 39 then around Alcatraz and Angel Island. He made a great snack trey and had plenty of cold cold drinks that we enjoyed while we sailed. This is your guy if you want to sail the SF Bay! read more

Sail San Fran - Boat Charters Near Me - Tiburon, California

My boyfriend and I recently moved to the San Francisco area and we Highly recommend this sailing tour with Captain Mike. We had an amazing day sailing and he was very knowledgable on the history of the surrounding area. Him and his wife did everything to make us feel safe and comfortable. The lunch provided was absolutely delicious and they had a wide variety of beverages and refreshments. We will definitely book another tour in the future for our family and friends. read more

We took a sailing trip with Mike and Allie for our daughters 15th birthday and they were great. Their boat, the hawks nest, is beautiful and well kept. They were informative, knowledgeable, friendly, and fun! They showed our kids the ropes and let our daughter take the wheel while sailing. We couldn't have asked for more. Also, they put a great lunch time spread together for us. I highly recommend them if you are looking for a beautiful sailing trip out on the bay. read more

My fiancé and I joined a group of friends aboard Hawks Nest for an amazing trip through the bay chartered by Capt. Mike and Allie... Who I must add are the most incredible hosts! The boat was stocked with wine & beer and the h'orderves and food was great and they were willing to cater to our taste of music, but the Bob Marley, Jack Johnson and cool island tunes they had playing were perfect for our amazing charter! Definitely recommend Hawks Nest!! read more

We had SUCH fun sailing with Mike and Allie and our friends yesterday. It was a perfect 3-hour tour of the area, complete with a great spread of appetizers and beer and wine. They are experts on their Hunter 41, which is in great shape. Their sparkling personality helped make it a lovely birthday celebration. If you are looking for a great experience in sailing San Francisco Bay, Mike and Allie Hawkins and A Great Escape Sailing Charters will provide it!! read more

Captain Mike took a group of four of us on an afternoon sail around the bay. Couldn't have been any better. His boat is beautiful, and matches his knowledge and hospitality. He accommodated all of our requests for food and refreshments, and even picked up some champagne and a birthday cake for us! I'm from Tiburon and plan to sail with him again for myself and visiting guests. read more

My fiancé and I had the pleasure of sailing on the Bay with Allie and Mike on their beautiful boat. They lead a most delightful charter. Both are incredibly gracious, fun, knowledgeable, and just downright awesome. A charter with them takes you past Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, past Sausalito, etc. Our sail with them was one of the most fun days we've spent in the Bay Area. Plus, they provide ample appetizers, beer, and great music. They even let us "steer" the boat for a few nautical miles. read more

What a great experience with Mike and Allie! If you're going to be on the water in the Bay, it'll be one of the best decisions you'll make to choose them as your way. If you're just visiting or living in the Bay Area, it seems like a dream sometimes to think of being on the legendary San Francisco Bay. It's home of the America's Cup sailboat race, some of the best waters to be on in the entire world, and just the thought of floating under the Golden Gate towers, by Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, and being in another world like Sausalito and Tiburon's waterfront. I'll give you a little taste of what you should expect with A Great Escape.... You hop on their gorgeous Hunter sailboat with tunes playing in the speakers and your world finally just slows down. You start to relax and realize that you're on the water and are immediately taken to paradise. The boat's immaculately maintained inside and out, and it's one of those times where you say to yourself...."I need this boat. Hell, we could live on this boat! :) Right Hunny?!" You're introduced to everyone on the boat. Those who will automatically become your friends afterwards because of the fun, the excitement, and the beautiful views you've experienced together in the hours together. You can take your beverage of choice, sit back, and enjoy the ride, or if you're into sailing like I am, you can really get into it. Mike let me take the helm for quite awhile, even during tacking! So if you want to experience taking the helm of a large sailboat and snap a pic to brag to your friends and family, then your opportunity awaits ;) Mike is from Texas and Allie is a SoCal girl and the combination is great for boat atmosphere. Laid back, easy to get along with, and accommodating as can be! You can tell that they've spent a lot of time on the water and that is very important when sailing on the Bay. The waters can be tricky sometimes. They are fully aware of what's going on at all times, yet you wouldn't never think about it, because they are such naturals. I'm an avid sailor, both racing and cruising, and my wife likes to cruise, to just BE on the water and relax. If her glass of SB is spilling, it's too rough of a ride for her. On Mike and Allie's boat, it can be the best of both worlds for anyone, because of its perfect size and their ability to manage the boat like it's no effort at all. You get a taste of some speed from sails up, wind, and sun in your face going under the Golden Gate as well as your calm, glass waters on the back side of Angel Island. With an adventure like that, we will definitely go back out with them as our choice of charters on the Bay. We live in Tiburon and the ability to have such great people, sailors, and amazing guides on the water at our fingertips makes us want to sail every weekend or even for an evening cruise. We will for sure come back with our friends and family and encourage you to take advantage of the experience A Great Escape provides! read more

What a great time had on the Hawks Nest for Mother's Day. Mike and Allie were wonderful hosts and treated us great. This was our daughters first time on a boat and could not have felt safer. Beautiful views, fabulous time, great people. If you like to sail, check them out, you won't be disappointed. read more