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Boat Tours & Charters in Santa Barbara, CA

8 of the 38 marinas and boating businesses we list in Santa Barbara are boat tours and private charters.

Excursions range from captained private sailboat rentals and sunset party boats to scheduled wildlife cruises and eco-tours. Choosing the right operator depends on whether you want a catered, hands-off experience or a BYOB group outing, as well as age restrictions for children. A map location shows where the vessel docks, but it will not tell you if fuel, captain fees, and safety gear are included in the listed rate.

  1. Santa Barbara Whale Watch

    SB Sailing Center, 302 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Call Website Directions

  2. SunSwept Sailing

    6 Harbor Way #161, Santa Barbara Harbor, Marina Two, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    Call Website Directions

  3. Condor Express Whale Watching

    301 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-3886

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  4. Celebration Cruises Of Santa Barbara

    237 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-3585

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  5. Sunset Kidd Sailing Cruises and Whale Watching

    125 Harbor Way #13, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

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  6. SunSwept Sailing

    Marina 2, Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

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  7. Coastal Explorers Santa Barbara

    301 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101-3886

    Website Directions

  8. Island Cats Charters

    117 Harbor Way # D, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

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Check the inclusions. Confirm whether the quoted price covers captain fees, fuel, port taxes, and gratuity, or if those are billed separately at dockside checkout.

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Good to know

What is the difference between a boat tour and a boat charter?

A boat tour sells individual tickets on a scheduled route with a set itinerary and shared passengers. A charter reserves the entire vessel for your private group, often allowing custom routes, flexible departure times, and personalized food or drink options.

Are food and drinks usually provided on board?

Larger sightseeing tours often feature a cash bar or light snacks, while private charters frequently operate on a BYOB basis with ice and coolers provided. Always check local regulations and company rules regarding glass containers and alcohol before boarding.

How much do boat tours and charters typically cost?

Shared passenger tours typically cost between $30 and $90 per person depending on the duration and destination. Private charters generally start around $300 to $600 for a few hours on a smaller craft, while larger yachts or specialized sail charters can run $1,000 or more.