Napa-Sonoma Marsh & San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Four Person/Poodle Shark Three-Hour Scenic Wetlands Tour
It was a sunny albeit windy day on Sunday but the intricate winding, protected network of passages in the tidal wetlands afforded ample opportunity for cruising in calm, sheltered waters.
My four guests and a Poodle Shark joined me on another fantastic excursion into this world-class wonderland.
Timing with the incoming high tide afforded us the opportunity to pull up on the bank, disembark and take in an unobstructed 360 degree view that includes, reclaimed salt ponds, tidal marshes, Sonoma Raceway, Sonoma Mountain, the Mayacamus Mountains, the Carneros Region, the Vaca Mountains and glimpses of the Sonoma Creek Bridge in the distance – all from the one location. And of course the Pelicans, Egrets, Blue Heron and multitude of other waterbirds we could see.
From there I took my party of five to one of my favorite, remote locations where we pulled up alongside a tule bank and proceeded to enjoy a wonderful smorgasbord of delicacies provided by one of the ‘guests’.
It’s hard to call them ‘customers’ when you engage in deep and meaningful conversations and they relate so well with what you are doing and honestly appreciate for themselves what you see and you feel in this amazing place.
One comment that was made reflects precisely what we typically experience on these wetlands tours: “wow! we haven’t seen another boat”. It’s only when we head back to the main sloughs and into the Napa River that we start to see other people and a small amount of boat traffic.
The vast majority of the nearly 8 million people in the San Francisco Bay Area are unaware that there are expansive tidal wetlands on their doorstep where for a few hours where they can escape the hectic pace of life, breathe in fresh air, relax and take in a magnificent panorama.
One of my passengers asked the following questions: What days/times do you usually offer these trips? How long are they? The answer is simple: I’ll take you out any day I’m available and weather permits and we can depart when you like and stay out for how long you like – within reason. I have a table of standard services on offer with corresponding trip times & rates however this can be customized and tailored to suit your schedule, desires and preferences. All trips are private and are made by booking in advance.
I’ll have a cooler onboard with cold water and soda, sometimes light snacks ie chips if you wish. You are welcome to bring whatever additional food and drinks you like – within reason.
All river cruises and wetlands tours depart from Cuttings Wharf Public Boat Launch just 10-15 minutes south of busy downtown Napa.
Capt Aussie Bob
Wombat Charters
Napa, California
My passengers brought an exquisite picnic lunch and I knew a perfect and secluded spot for them to enjoy it