This guide describes the choices of routes that a coastal cruiser may follow: Offshore, inshore or harbor-hopping route from Seattle, Washington to San Diego California. A safe approach to all major facilities is described and sketched in detail as well as the anchorages in the Channel Islands.

Many cruisers have found the detailed information invaluable when approaching both planned stop-overs or when making an unexpected approach to the coast as a result of engine or equipment failure or a health emergency. Detailed drawings of marina facilities takes the worry out of approaching an unfamiliar marina especially if the crew is fatigued following a tiring spell at sea.

A GPS Waypoint list is intended to assist a cruiser to locate offshore approach buoys and avoid reefs, points and capes by a safe margin. Waypoints are not given following the channel into marinas because facilities, river channels and other areas subject to shoaling are constantly changing.

Many marinas in San Francisco Bay usually have spaces allocated for transient cruisers and invite boaters to cruise the Bay to enjoy a wide variety of services, great restaurants and points of interest. The dock plans and details of the marinas that welcome cruisers are individually illustrated.

• Suggested Cruising Gear
• How To Anchor Securely
• Selecting a Whisker Pole
• Selecting an Anchor Rode
• Upgrading Your Anchor Rode