What to Expect on a Private 3 Day Yacht Charter
A 3 day yacht charter is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Southern California from the water. With enough time to unplug, explore iconic coastlines, and settle into life aboard a luxury yacht, a 3 day private yacht charter offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
At Naos Yachts in Marina del Rey, our charters are designed for both beginner and experienced sailors looking for a memorable, immersive sailing experience. Below is a clear, realistic breakdown of what guests can expect on a typical three-day yacht charter in Southern California—along with insight into how longer experiences, like our recent Channel Islands flotilla, expand on the same unforgettable journey.
Why Choose a 3 Day Private Yacht Charter in Southern California?
Southern California’s coastline is uniquely suited for multi-day yacht charters. Consistent winds, mild weather, and diverse destinations make a 3 day private yacht charter ideal for:
- First-time overnight sailors
- Couples or small groups seeking a private escape
- Aspiring sailors wanting hands-on experience
- Experienced sailors looking for a curated coastal itinerary
With Marina del Rey as your starting point, you gain immediate access to open water, protected anchorages, and world-class sailing conditions.
Day 1: Departure, Coastal Sailing & First Night at Anchor
Your 3 day yacht charter typically begins at Marina del Rey, one of the largest man-made marinas in the world.
Morning: Boarding & Orientation
Guests arrive and either meet with their skipper or complete a bareboat orientation with our team. They receive a safety briefing and vessel orientation, during which expectations, preferences, and experience levels are discussed. Beginners are always welcome and encouraged to participate at their own comfort level.
Afternoon: Sailing the Southern California Coast
After departing the marina, you’ll spend the afternoon sailing along the coastline. Common routes include Santa Monica Bay, Malibu, or Catalina-bound passages depending on conditions and group goals. Expect:
- Hands-on sailing opportunities
- Relaxed cruising under sail
- Coastal views you simply can’t experience from land
Evening: Anchorage & Dinner Aboard
As the sun sets, the yacht anchors in a protected cove or marina. Dinner aboard, stargazing, and the gentle motion of the water set the tone for the nights ahead.
Day 2: Full Immersion into the Yacht Charter Lifestyle
The second day of a 3 day private yacht charter is where the experience truly settles in.
Morning: Wake Up on the Water
There’s nothing quite like waking up at anchor. Mornings are calm and unhurried, often starting with coffee on deck and a swim or paddle before getting underway.
Midday: Extended Sailing & Exploration
This day usually includes longer sail times, skill-building opportunities, and exploration of nearby destinations. Depending on weather and itinerary, guests may:
- Practice navigation and sail trim
- Learn anchoring techniques
- Visit remote coves or harbors
- Enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, or swimming
Evening: Another Night Under the Stars
Dinner, storytelling, and shared experiences onboard build a sense of camaraderie that’s unique to multi-day sailing adventures.
Day 3: Return Sail & Final Coastal Views
The final day of your 3 day yacht charter blends reflection with one last sail.
Morning: Leisure & Light Sailing
After breakfast, the yacht begins its return journey toward Marina del Rey. This sail is typically relaxed, allowing guests to soak in the final moments at sea.
Afternoon: Docking & Disembarkation
Upon returning to the marina, guests assist with docking if desired, followed by a wrap-up discussion and farewells—often leaving already planning the next charter.
From 3 Days to 5: Our Channel Islands Flotilla Experience
While a 3 day private yacht charter is ideal for many sailors, Naos Yachts also hosts longer adventures that build on the same core experience.
In June 2025, we led a 5-day flotilla charter to the Channel Islands, where multiple yachts sailed together to one of Southern California’s most pristine destinations. Though longer in duration, the fundamentals remained the same:
- Structured daily sailing itineraries
- Group learning and shared anchorages
- Wildlife encounters, island exploration, and offshore passages
- Strong community and mentorship among sailors
For many participants, that flotilla began with shorter charters—proving that a 3 day yacht charter is often the gateway to more advanced sailing experiences.
Who a 3 Day Yacht Charter Is Perfect For
A 3 day private yacht charter with Naos Yachts is ideal for:
- Beginners curious about overnight sailing
- Experienced sailors refining offshore skills
- Couples or friends seeking a unique coastal escape
- Future cruising sailors considering long-term adventures
No matter your experience level, our charters are designed to meet you where you are.
Join the Naos Yachts Sailing Community
A 3 day yacht charter isn’t just a vacation—it’s an introduction to a lifestyle. At Naos Yachts in Marina del Rey, we offer more than charters. We provide a pathway into confident, capable sailing through our sailing club, training programs, and group adventures.
Whether you’re brand new to sailing or ready to take your skills further, we invite you to join our sailing club, explore upcoming charters, or contact us to learn more about private and flotilla experiences in Southern California and beyond.
For those interested in expanding beyond a three-day experience, we also host curated multi-day flotilla charters that bring sailors together for longer adventures. Upcoming flotilla destinations include Catalina Island (April 2–5 and October 8–11), the Channel Islands (August 5–9), and an international sailing experience in Tahiti (June 20–27).
These trips build on the same foundations as our shorter charters, offering deeper exploration, offshore passages, and a strong sense of community. Sign up today.
FAQs
Do I need sailing experience to book a 3 day yacht charter?
No prior sailing experience is required for a 3 day yacht charter. Beginners are welcome and encouraged to participate at their comfort level, while experienced sailors can take a more hands-on role throughout the trip.
Where do 3 day yacht charters usually go in Southern California?
Most 3 day yacht charters departing from Marina del Rey explore destinations such as Santa Monica Bay, Malibu, or Catalina Island, depending on conditions. Routes are customized to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and scenic experience.
What should I pack for a 3 day yacht charter?
Guests should bring casual sailing clothes, non-marking shoes, sun protection, personal toiletries, and any prescribed medications. Soft bags are recommended for easy storage onboard during a 3 day private yacht charter.
How do I book a 3 day private yacht charter?
You can book a 3 day private yacht charter by contacting Naos Yachts directly to discuss availability, vessel options, and itinerary preferences. Our team will help match you with the right experience based on your goals and experience level.
