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.

Share This Page

  • 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.

  • John Kratochvil, Oregon

    I would like to compliment Stan Lander for his coaching, counseling and teaching Heavy Weather Offshore Sailing. Stan was very accommodating to all of the student's interests and shared his many years of insight on handling the boat in heavy seas. I would certainly recommend Stan and this course to sheltered waters sailors. My confidence in handling a boat of this size was certainly enhanced by the experience.

  • Warren Leiden, Member

    I try to get out on the water every week: out the Gate, around Angel, up Raccoon - I love it all. After 18 years as a member of OCSC in Berkeley, I learned to sail the bigger boats at Modern by taking ASA 103 and 104. My ASA 104 instructor Dave Russell was terrific. Also, Captain Bill Moreland has been very generous in giving informal advice whenever I’ve asked him. Thanks to Bill, I no longer have any anxiety about docking!

  • 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.

  • Esther C

    I took ASA 101 with them recently. They have the best customer service I've ever seen! I mistyped my address when I signed up online so didn't receive the textbook. I called and the lady immediately sent me another copy! Everyone at the club is super friendly.

Follow us
on Social Media

 

Modern Sailing School & Club

Sausalito Location
2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

Berkeley Location
1 Spinnaker Way, Berkeley
(415) 331-8250
(800) 995-1668

Map / Directions