San Francisco
I'll acknowledge a little prejudice. I agree with the other posters regarding their analysis of the conditions and issues. You might get wet in April to May in Puget Sound. Might in San Francisco too, but not likely. Also, the wind in San Francisco that early in the season would not normally be like it is in the months when the central valley gets hotter (thats what pulls the wind in). It is normal to have small craft warnings inside the bay during the summer months. I think it depends on how skilled you want to get. I've heard it said that if you learn to sail in San Francisco, you can sail anywhere. While I suspect that may be somewhat less than absolute, learning here does carry some weight. I chartered from Moorings in BVI with just a Basic Cruising certificate and an anchor clinic under my belt some years ago (they knew I learned in San Francisco). Now I know they will just about rent to anyone, but the requirements generally include a bareboat certificate. If you learn in San Francisco you will not be outside the Golden Gate for keelboat classes. In fact, I don't think any schools take you outside until you reach Coastal Pasage making around here. I suspect that might be different in San Diego. You might want to check the chances for sufficient wind in San Diego for that time of year. Dan Jonas (S/V Feije II)
