When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Aolani Catamaran Sailing

Why Aolani Catamaran Sailing is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Aolani Catamaran Sailing offers a premier private yacht charter experience in San Diego, renowned for its blend of luxury, adventure, and personalized service. With a sleek 58-foot catamaran designed by Kurt Hughes, the vessel comfortably accommodates up to 49 guests, making it ideal for intimate gatherings or larger events. Since launching in 2002, Aolani has become a landmark of San Diego’s maritime culture, providing tailored sailing experiences ranging from romantic sunset cruises to corporate events and weddings. The catamaran is Coast Guard certified for open ocean sailing and equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure both speed and stability. The crew is highly praised for their hospitality, ensuring guests feel pampered and safe throughout their journey. Customizable experiences include whale watching off Point Loma, dinner cruises with city skyline views, and special occasions enhanced with catering from top local restaurants and a premium spirits bar. Aolani's commitment to quality and outstanding customer care makes it an exceptional place to celebrate milestones or enjoy a memorable outing with friends and family in San Diego’s scenic waters.
Here's what people think of Aolani Catamaran Sailing
As of recent, Aolani Catamaran Sailing holds a 4.9-star rating based on 161 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Aolani Catamaran Sailing’s exceptional service and unforgettable experiences. Positive feedback emphasizes the knowledgeable and friendly crew, spacious and well-maintained vessel, and the beauty of seeing San Diego from the water. Many reviewers praise the flawless execution of corporate events, weddings, and private parties, often noting how the crew goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable time. Customers appreciate the customizable nature of the charters, including catering and drinks, which enhance the luxury feel. On the other hand, some negative comments, though few, mention occasional scheduling or communication delays and the premium pricing, which some guests found on the higher side. However, these issues were minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive experiences documented. Overall, reviews confirm that Aolani Catamaran Sailing offers first-class service, professionalism, and value, justifying its high ratings and reputation as a top choice for private yacht charters in San Diego.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Danielle Craig
My husband and I got married on the Aolani and it was the most incredible experience we could have ever asked for. From the boat itself, to the amazing crew and the coordinator, they created a seamless and stress free experience. Our guests had a blast and kept raving about what a unique experience it was!!! We highly recommend the Aolani for any special event you may be considering!
B
Our expectations were exceeded! From the booking process to the charter itself, everything was perfect. Cameron assisted my group in selecting the perfect day and time, and we are so thankful he was able to fit us in in the midst of busy season. Our group had a fantastic time on board - the captain and crew were very professional and kind, drinks were excellent, and the service was truly above and beyond. Huge thank you to the Aolani team for creating such a special event for us!
Caroline Hornblower
Absolutely wonderful experience with the Aolani Catamaran! It was the perfect afternoon celebrating our parents 50th wedding anniversary on the water. The crew was friendly, organized with the set up/clean up, and attentive to every detail. Cameron was also great in helping with the planning. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun way to enjoy beautiful San Diego!
Katherine Shelton
I recently arranged a corporate event for my company in Washington DC and booked the Aolani for a team-building outing while traveling in San Diego. From start to finish, the experience was seamless. The team was professional, organized, and incredibly accommodating. The food and drinks were top-notch, and the staff—thanks Holly and Athan! - went above and beyond to make the evening memorable. After a long day of conferences, our team was finally able to relax and enjoy the beauty of San Diego from the water. We received so much positive feedback from attendees—it was the perfect way to wrap up the trip. Highly recommend the Aolani for any corporate or group event!
Jessica Iannuzzi
We spontaneously decided to get married and wanted to do it on the water. I'm so glad we chose to go through Aolani! The planning process was made so simple and smooth by Cameron, even with the short time frame. He helped coordinate the timing, meeting spot, catering, and made sure we could do our ceremony at a spot in the bay that was extremely meaningful to us. The captain and crew were beyond accommodating and fun! So grateful for the team. They made the ceremony portion of our day so unique and special.
How to reach Aolani Catamaran Sailing
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Why Aolani Catamaran Sailing may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Aolani Catamaran Sailing with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Aolani Catamaran Sailing offers an exceptional way to celebrate together in a unique and breathtaking setting. This experience combines the thrill of sailing with the comfort and luxury of a spacious catamaran, creating an atmosphere perfect for socializing and making lasting memories. With a stellar rating of 4.9 from over 160 reviews, it’s clear that guests repeatedly praise the vessel’s smooth ride, professional crew, and attentive service. The Aolani is not just a boat; it’s a floating venue where laughter, relaxation, and adventure merge seamlessly under the sun or stars. Whether you’re planning a casual outing, a birthday celebration, or a corporate team-building event, Aolani offers a welcoming environment where groups can connect away from the daily routine. The crew’s dedication to safety and guest satisfaction ensures that your entire party is in capable hands, freeing you to focus on enjoying the spectacular San Diego Bay views and each other’s company. This combination of luxury, camaraderie, and stunning scenery makes Aolani an ideal rallying point for groups seeking both excitement and relaxation on the water.
What activities can you enjoy on Aolani Catamaran Sailing?
Aolani Catamaran Sailing offers an impressive range of activities designed to entertain and engage groups of all sizes. At its core, the main activity is cruising the beautiful San Diego Bay aboard a spacious, stable catamaran that can comfortably accommodate large groups, making it optimal for meetups. The smooth sailing experience is enhanced by knowledgeable and friendly crew members who ensure both safety and enjoyment. Besides the luxurious sailing itself, guests often experience wildlife spotting, with opportunities to see dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds, which adds an exciting natural element to your time on board. Many customers highlight the ability to bring along food and beverages to enjoy a picnic or celebration party, transforming the experience into a floating social event. For more active groups, the option to anchor and engage in swimming or snorkeling provides a refreshing way to dive into the Pacific. The flexibility to customize your charter means you can tailor the time on the water to your group's preference — from relaxed sunset cruises to lively parties with music. This variety ensures every outing is unique and suited to the group's interests, guaranteeing a memorable gathering.
Why is Aolani Catamaran Sailing perfect for group meetups?
Aolani Catamaran Sailing shines as a venue for group meetups because of its combination of ample space, professional service, and customizable experiences tailored for social gatherings. The catamaran’s dual-hull design offers a large deck area and incredible stability, which means guests can move freely and socialize comfortably without concern about seasickness or cramped quarters. Groups ranging from intimate circles to up to 20 or more people find the boat ideal for celebrations, reunions, or corporate events, as noted by numerous satisfied customers who praise its capacity and layout. The crew’s professionalism ensures that every aspect—from navigation to safety to guest care—is seamlessly handled, enabling hosts and guests to relax fully. Many reviewers have emphasized the crew’s effort to create a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of the Hawaiian spirit, fostering a sense of community on board. Additionally, the picturesque backdrop of San Diego Bay, especially during sunset, provides a perfect ambiance for photography, storytelling, and bonding. Whether you want an energetic party environment or a tranquil escape, Aolani can accommodate, making it an outstanding setting for any group occasion.
What should groups expect regarding service and hospitality on Aolani?
Groups chartering the Aolani Catamaran are consistently impressed by the level of service and hospitality provided by the captain and crew. Guests report that the staff is not only highly professional and experienced but also genuinely friendly and attentive to each guest’s needs. The crew takes care to explain safety protocols and ocean etiquette clearly, helping everyone feel comfortable and secure throughout the voyage. Many reviews mention that the team goes above and beyond, ensuring personalized touches and creating an enjoyable atmosphere that adds to the overall adventure. The hospitality extends beyond safety — the crew assists with boarding, helps manage onboard amenities, and readily accommodates special requests, such as catering preferences or music choices. Feedback frequently highlights how this attentive service elevates the sailing experience from simply being a boat ride to an engaging event filled with aloha spirit. For groups, this means hosts can rely on expert hands to run the logistics smoothly, allowing them more ease to mingle, relax, and celebrate with their guests.
How can Aolani Catamaran Sailing enhance special occasions and events?
Aolani Catamaran Sailing is an exceptional choice for marking special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, and corporate milestones due to its unique blend of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty. The experience of celebrating on a beautiful catamaran, floating silently across shimmering waters with panoramic views of San Diego’s skyline and coastline, creates an unforgettable ambiance. The vessel’s spaciousness allows for decorations, personalized music playlists, and catering setups, so each event can be customized precisely according to the host’s vision. The crew's willingness to work closely with organizers ensures that every detail — from timing to menu options — enhances the celebration without stress. Guests often recall the magic of an intimate party out on the water, where laughter echoes against the waves and sunsets paint the horizon in vibrant colors. For corporate groups, Aolani’s reputation of serving Fortune 500 companies underscores its suitability for professional yet relaxed networking, team-building, or client entertainment. Through this combination of comfort, aesthetic appeal, and attentive service, Aolani transforms ordinary events into cherished memories.
What makes Aolani Catamaran Sailing stand out compared to other sailing experiences?
What sets Aolani apart from other sailing charters is the harmonious balance it strikes between high-end comfort, expert professionalism, and the joyful spirit of aloha. The catamaran itself is noted for its size and stability, ensuring a smooth ride even for guests who might be nervous about sailing. The extensive experience of its crew in hosting diverse groups with varying needs means that every outing is executed seamlessly, from safety to service. Additionally, the Aolani story includes sailing with prestigious corporate clients and private groups alike, reflecting a level of trust and excellence that is hard to match. The location — cruising the picturesque San Diego Bay — offers stunning photo-worthy vistas that add to the luxury experience without needing to travel far. Guests also appreciate the flexibility in tailoring the trip to their preferences, whether for a quiet cruise or lively party. This consistent delivery of high ratings and heartfelt recommendations confirms that Aolani Catamaran Sailing is not just a boat trip but a distinguished, memorable experience ideal for social gatherings.
How accessible is Aolani Catamaran Sailing for various groups?
Aolani Catamaran Sailing caters to a range of group sizes and types, making it accessible for families, friend groups, corporate teams, and special interest gatherings. The vessel’s design accommodates up to around 20 passengers comfortably, providing enough room for socializing without overcrowding. The crew’s experience means they can adapt the sailing to varying levels of guest mobility or activity preference, allowing for an inclusive experience for everyone on board. Because it’s based in the convenient San Diego Bay area, it’s easy for local groups as well as visitors to coordinate transportation and timing efficiently. The charter can be arranged for various durations, from shorter excursions to half-day events, enabling groups with different schedules to participate. This versatility ensures it fits multiple social occasions, budgets, and mobility needs. Guests also appreciate the ease of booking and clear communication, ensuring group organizers can plan confidently and have all their questions answered.
What should groups bring and prepare for when sailing on the Aolani?
To make the most of a group meetup aboard the Aolani Catamaran Sailing, it’s advisable to come prepared with a few essentials. Since the experience takes place on the water, sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses is highly recommended. Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a boat deck, along with light jackets for cooler breezes, will ensure everyone’s comfort. Many groups choose to bring food and beverages for onboard enjoyment, turning the sail into a festive affair; it’s wise to coordinate in advance with the crew regarding any catering or restrictions. Cameras or smartphones are essential for capturing the stunning scenery and joyful moments together. Lastly, a positive and flexible group spirit helps ensure everyone enjoys their time, embracing the natural rhythms of sailing and the spontaneous fun that often arises on a shared adventure.
Why do guests keep recommending Aolani Catamaran Sailing?
The sheer number of rave reviews and high star ratings reflect why guests enthusiastically recommend Aolani Catamaran Sailing. The combination of a pristine, well-maintained catamaran, an expert and warm crew, and the stunning backdrop of San Diego Bay creates a package that consistently exceeds expectations. Reviewers often highlight the smoothness of the sail, the crew’s personable nature, and the overall ease and joy of the experience as key reasons to return or suggest it to others. Whether it’s a first-time sailor or a seasoned ocean enthusiast, the level of care and attention to detail makes everyone feel welcome and valued. The ability to customize charters for birthdays, corporate events, or casual get-togethers also adds to its appeal. The ongoing positive word of mouth coupled with professional endorsements from major clients further strengthen Aolani’s reputation as a top-tier choice for group outings on the water.
In summary, Aolani Catamaran Sailing offers a luxurious, spacious, and professionally managed setting that is ideal for friends and families looking to rally for memorable gatherings. Its broad appeal, attentive service, beautiful surroundings, and extensive customization options make it a standout option for hosting any type of social event on the water.