San Francisco Bay Anchorages
I frequently take Selene out for a few days on the hook in San Francisco Bay. Below are some of my favorite anchorages. Most are available for free; a few, including Ayala Cove and Aquatic Park, require payment.
Bay Area anchorages are generally thick mud, so I have had good results using the Bruce anchor. But keep in mind that the scourge of almost all San Francisco Bay anchorages are wakes from ferries starting around 6am; and in some places, from large container ships and tankers. So some anchorages can be rocky, especially in the early morning!
Things to look out for
- Currents: Frequently in the 3.3kn range, so mind your swing.
- Depth: Tidal range can vary from a couple of feet to 8+. Plan accordingly. I normally use a 5:1 scope, increasing to >7:1, as conditions dictate.
- Waves: Some anchorages are exposed to wave action; check the wind forecast and direction, a gorgeous anchorage can get miserable and very rocky if the wind shifts.
- Ferries: Almost impossible to get away from in the Bay; most anchorages start rocking and rolling around 6am.
Favorite Anchorages
Angel IslandAyala Cove
China Cove
Quarry Beach
Aquatic Park
Belvedere Cove
China Basin
China Camp
Clipper Cove (Treasure Island)
Horseshoe Cove
Paradise Cove
Richardson Bay
South Bay Wreck
Pier 50 (Peter's Spot)
Out the Gate
Drake's BayHalf Moon Bay
Please note that the information on the anchorages is to the best to my knowledge, and correct at the time it was written; but conditions can and do change, so please do not rely on this information, always check for yourself!
Clickable Map!
