How to Experience the Farallones Islands: Wildlife, Sailing Adventures & the San Francisco Bay | Modern Sailing

How to Experience the Farallones Islands: Wildlife, Sailing Adventures & the San Francisco Bay

An Unforgettable Journey: The Last Farallones Expedition of 2025 Season with Andrea Geisinger

Capt. Andrea Geisinger's final expedition to the Farallones Islands was nothing short of spectacular, an experience "as good as they get." Setting sail from Sausalito aboard our bluewater Spencer 1330 cruiser Coho II, the crew was treated to a day of stunning natural beauty and thrilling wildlife encounters.

The morning began with an overcast sky, but the sun broke through just in time to reveal the majestic Farallones in all their glory. With excellent visibility, the islands were already in sight as they passed the San Francisco approach buoy. As Coho II drew near, Andrea made the strategic decision to furl in the jib and motor the final stretch to ensure they had ample time to explore the islands. "We were too close not to go for it," she said, and the decision proved to be "absolutely worth it."

The return trip was equally memorable. The crew spotted several humpback whales, with some breaching and others performing deep dives, showing off their massive flukes. A few of the whales even came within a few boat lengths of the Coho II, much to the delight of everyone on board.

Despite a choppy sea with 6-7 foot waves and winds in the mid-teens, the crew had a fabulous time. Coho II handled the conditions with its usual grace. As the sun began to set, they approached Point Bonita, a moment Andrea described as "absolutely stunning." Although she was focused on navigating the challenging waves and swells, she heard a chorus of "ohhs and ahhs" from the crew, captivated by the breathtaking sunset. The journey concluded with a serene nighttime approach to Richardson Bay and the Sausalito channel, a unique experience for the crew.


Experience It Yourself

While our 2025 Season for offshore trips to the Farallones has concluded, we encourage you to keep watching for our upcoming Spring Expeditions. These opportunities to create your own unforgettable memories of the sea are not to be missed. Join our weekly newsletter to receive announcements to know when we open up our enrollments.

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  • John Boynton

    The class was terrific. I know you must get many compliments about your sailing instructors...But I must tell you that Robert is outstanding. Having taught SCUBA, I really appreciate the way he is so sensitive to all on board, dealing with each so well, knowing quickly their strengths and weaknesses making each feel special and cared for.

  • Jessica Zittere, Member

    The Full Moon Sail with Skipper Bob Gutsgell was Ah-Mayzing!! The group dynamic was lovely and the views spectacular. I can't say enough good things about the experience. Thanks so much for the wonderful Club Sails, they are really great.

  • Mike, Santa Rosa, California

    All of the courses and my instructors (JT and Stan) were extremely professional and full of knowledge and experience. I found I was able to learn from their experiences beyond the scope of the courses, and look forward to future opportunities to do so. I would highly recommend Modern Sailing to anyone.

  • Alisa Driscoll, Dual Site Member

    Here are some snaps of Our Saturday, August 20, 2022 Modern Sailing Expedition with Captain Robert Bivin, who was outstanding. Please convey photos and thanks to him. He is an outstanding individual, leader and sailing instructor. His knowledge and experience made us all feel safe and our Farallones Day Trip educational and just amazing. 

  • Trudy Flores

    Captain Jeff Cathers is really cool. I had such a great time on the Farallones Day Trip. It was actually my very best day of 2020. Thank you so much for coordinating the trip.

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Modern Sailing School & Club

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(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

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