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Smooth Sailing on
the Chardonnay II
The seventy-foot sailing yacht, Chardonnay II, provides a rare opportunity for locals and tourists alike to experience the natural wonder of the Monterey Bay and its marine mammals while enjoying local food, sipping ne wine, and beer.
It’s easy to nd the Chardonnay’s dock in the Santa Cruz Harbor, and I had no trouble with parking. The of ce, located under the Murray Street bridge, not only sold tickets, but also any hats, jackets, or sunblock necessary for the two hour jaunt. I arrived a half hour early, and enjoyed the view of the boats, seagulls, and paddle boarders as I waited in the warm spring sun. After boarding, the enthusiastic crew explained what was in store for the next two hours, and then we set sail—out of the harbor and into the bay.
Bobby, the skipper, impressed me with his con dence and expertise. A sailor for much of his life, he’s been captain of the Chardonnay II for eight years. He pointed out humpback whales, otters, and harbor seals, taking us close enough to the wharf to hear and see Santa Cruz’s resident pod of 800 pound sea lions. As a landlover, I felt con dent I was in good hands. The competent crew attended to my every need, bringing me an over owing plate of healthy, avorful food and checking my beverage levels.
The view of Santa Cruz from the ocean is always a lively surprise. How often do we see our town from this vantage point? The Boardwalk is a fairyland of swirling colors and movement. Loma Prieta—the highest peak in the distant Santa Cruz Mountains— presides over a rocky coast carpeted with magenta ice plant. The lighthouse
at Steamer Lane is reminiscent of an East Coast village, except for the perfect sur ng waves lined up and breaking at the tip of the bay. From the sea, Santa Cruz displays its impressive natural features: a coastline of coves and beaches, redwoodcrested mountains, and rolling foothills of expansive meadows around UC Santa Cruz and Pogonip park.
On this particular tour, I was treated to a meal from world-traveler and caterer Joshua Keen, owner of Conscious Creations. Each ingredient was organic and freerange, the avors and textures perfectly balanced. But, if that’s not your style, there are charters for a variety of cuisines: pizza, sushi, Hawaiian, a “Taste of Santa Cruz,” as well as wine or beer tasting. Nature lovers can enjoy whale watching and sunset charters, while sailing enthusiasts might like to watch the Wednesday night regatta. Chardonnay also hosts private excursions for corporate events, team building, weddings, and burials at sea.
This sleek yacht is a perfect t for a range of needs: it’s comfortable for up to fortynine passengers on a racing hull with plenty of seating, cup holders, and two bathrooms. Catering to seasoned sailors and amateurs, kids and adults, locals and tourists since 1991, the Chardonnay embodies the very best of Santa Cruz in one relaxing yet thrilling experience.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, the friendly folks at Chardonnay Sailing Charters are ready to help you enjoy! To book your reservation today, call 8314231213 or check out their website: www. chardonnay.com.
SUMMER | 2016 37
www.chardonnay.com
summersantacruz.com