Our Programs

Bay Explorations

Our three hour program, Bay Explorations, gives students a rich, hands-on experience aboard a traditional sailing vessel, as they learn about bay and California coastal history; practice navigation and seamanship; and explore the unique environment of the San Francisco Bay. The curriculum aligns with fourth and fifth grade California State Standards in social studies and science, yet can be adapted to any grade level. With a large sailing vessel as a teaching platform, students receive an invigorating outdoor program that inspires inquiry and understanding.

The program combines a structured curriculum of rotating classes with the active and cooperative learning experience of getting the vessel underway, raising the sails, setting the course, and sailing and steering the ship. The curriculum is part of a collaboration with the Bay Model in Sausalito and Bay Model educational staff provide instruction in Bay and Estuary marine ecology and biology including marine organisms and water quality. Students also learn the history of the early California coastal explorers while also gaining hands on experience in traditional navigation methods such as utilization of charts, the compass and the taffrail log.


Voyage Seaward


During this 8-day/7-night sea-going adventure, under the guidance of a professional captain and crew, students are challenged to become a team through learning to sail a classic sailing vessel and take her on a voyage beyond the Golden Gate. Given increased responsibility as the days pass, their skills grow; they develop confidence, teamwork and leadership abilities. Dependent on weather, wind and tide instead of social pressures and electronic entertainment, they gain an appreciation and respect for the ocean environment. By fully participating in all aspects of shipboard life: steering, navigating, standing watch, and helping in the galley students become one with the rhythm of a ship at sea, often returning to shore forever changed.

Bay & Beyond...

To augment our core educational programs, Call of the Sea offers special events, community sails, adult sail training and private charters. Enjoy a peaceful sunset sail, an adventurous voyage to the Farallon Islands, or book the Schooner Seaward for your special occasion. We welcome the opportunity to go beyond the call and work with your group to customize an unforgettable sailing experience!