Programs

Experienced sailors and rowers can get out on the Bay right at Dunphy Park, using boats from the Sausalito Community Boating Center fleet!
Before reserving a boat independently, the person who will operate the boat must complete an SCBC Checkout. During the Checkout, SCBC staff will review the participant’s boating experience and knowledge and have them demonstrate the skills necessary to safely operate the type of boat they would like to use.

Once approved, participants may reserve an available boat during subsequent Open Sail & Row sessions. Qualified operators may bring up to 3 passengers, including youth accompanied by their parent or guardian.
This is a lightly supervised boating program rather than a traditional boat rental. SCBC staff will be present at the dock and an SCBC safety boat will patrol the designated boating area during program hours.

No beginner instruction is provided during Open Sail & Row sessions. Participants who are not yet qualified to operate a boat independently should register for adult or youth classes listed on Parks & Rec. Want to schedule something not yet posted? Please fill out this form

ELIGIBILITY & QUALIFICATIONS
The person operating the boat must:
-Be age 18 or older.
-Have prior sailing or rowing experience appropriate for the vessel they wish to operate.
-Complete an SCBC Checkout for each type of boat they wish to operate.
-Demonstrate the ability to safely rig, launch, operate, return and secure the vessel.
? Demonstrate sufficient understanding of basic boating safety, right-of-way/navigation rules, and communication on a VHF radio.
? Be comfortable operating a small boat in the conditions typical of Richardson Bay/San Francisco Bay.
-Follow all instructions from SCBC dock and safety-boat staff.
-Wear a PFD at all times while aboard the vessel.
-Remain within the designated boating area established by SCBC staff for that session.
-Return immediately if instructed to do so by SCBC staff.

Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are provided by SCBC and must be worn at all times by everyone aboard an SCBC vessel.

A successful Checkout will remain on file indefinitely, with the need to re-check only after a lapse in activity of more than 2 years.
SCBC reserves the right to require a new Checkout if staff believe a participant needs to demonstrate current skills before operating a boat again.

PASSENGERS
A checked-out operator may bring up to 4 additional passengers, subject to the capacity of the specific boat.
Youth may participate as passengers when accompanied by their parent/legal guardian.
Every adult participant must complete a waiver. A parent or legal guardian must complete the waiver for each participant under 18.

This is a pilot program - SCBC welcomes your feedback as we prepare for the 2027 Season!