Are you considering a sailing weekend or "staycation" on San Francisco Bay this winter? Winter days on the Bay can provide some very pleasant and mild conditions for sailing. Nights can get a bit chilly, but don't be deterred!
With this list of yachts equipped with cabin heaters, we're making it easy to spot the right yacht for you and your crew to enjoy a cozy winter night at a destination dock or on the hook. To see more details about each yacht including photos, rates, and specifications, simply click on its name.
| FLEET | VESSEL | HEATER TYPE | USAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Fleet | Wimm | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
| Platinum Fleet | Survivor | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
| Platinum Fleet | Firefly | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
| Platinum Fleet | Attitude Adjustment | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
| Platinum Fleet | Moon Dance | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
| Platinum Fleet | Liberty | Electric* | Shore Power Only |
| Catamaran Fleet | Folie à Deux | Diesel | Dock/Anchor/Mooring |
If you have any questions about using a cabin heater, before you leave the dock, please call the office on your cell phone or VHF radio channel 71 and ask to speak with a Fleet Technician.
Heating Away From the Dock (Anchoring or Mooring)
The vessels listed as Diesel are equipped with forced-air heaters that can be used anywhere, including "on the hook" or at an Angel Island mooring ball.
Benefits: Diesel heaters provide a "dry" heat that is much more effective at removing dampness and condensation from the cabin than electric heaters.
Power Management: While they burn diesel for fuel, they require 12V DC battery power to run the fans. Monitor your battery levels closely.
Safety: Always ensure fresh air is circulating in the cabin while the heater is in use.
Heating at the Dock (Shore Power Only)
All MSC cruising yachts carry a portable 110V electric space heater for use when plugged into shore power. However, Liberty has a specific built-in system:
Liberty (Beneteau Oceanis 38.1): Features a Dometic electric heat pump. This system only functions when connected to shore power.
Controls: There are two thermostat control panels: one below the main electrical panel (Nav Station) and a second in the port aft cabin.
Requirement: Ensure the dedicated "Climate Control" AC breaker is On at the main panel.
All MSC cruising yachts carry a portable 110V electric space heater. These must ONLY be used when connected to shore power.
Even if a boat has an inverter, using an electric heater away from the dock is strictly prohibited. It will drain house batteries rapidly and can cause permanent damage to the electrical system.
To learn more about power management while away from shore, be sure to read the article Marine Battery Care and Power Management Basics in the Member Resources section of our website.
Multi-day Charter Bonus
Did you know that when you book a boat for two or more consecutive days, you receive a special discount on your overall charter rate?
- 2 days = 10% off
- 3 or more days = 15% off
Additional Resources for Multi-day Charters
- San Francisco Bay Dock and Dine Locations
- Anchor and Windlass Tips for MSC Members
- Onboard Electricity Basics & FAQ
- Marine Battery and Power Management Basics
- Multi-day Charters: Fueling Up and Pumping Out
- Managing Water Use on a Multi-day Sailing Expedition
- Charter Boat Icebox and Refrigerator Basics and Best Practices
Ready to make your reservation? Call our friendly office at (415) 331-8250, email us, or book online. If this is your first time booking online, the Member Resources article How To Book a Boat Online helps make it easy.
