Romance and relaxation come to mind when thinking of sailing on a chartered catamaran — but what about letting the kids join you on your nautical adventures? It may sound iffy, but it is possible, and local, for that matter.
Hop a nearby highway to Lake Ray Hubbard’s Rockwall coastline and meet up with Scott Self, owner of Sail With Scott and captain of the Seawolf, a 40-foot wooden catamaran sailboat. On the gorgeous boat, your little sailors can help the crew steer, man the lines and get their picture taken at the boat’s helm. Free sailing lessons are also provided — simply ask! Self has years of advanced sailing experience from all across the globe (plus, he’s got great stories to go along with his sailing lessons!). Parents will enjoy sunning on the deck or joining in on the fun with family members of all ages.
Sailing cruises can last about two hours for $25 per person. The Seawolf makes about six daily trips from 9am-9pm. A sailing adventure is a great daylong escape, or it can be transformed into an overnight trip at the Hilton Bella Harbor in Rockwall. Daily rates start at $140 (or $200 to guarantee a lakeside view). The Seawolf is docked at the shoreline behind the hotel, making the walk to your awaiting boat a breeze.
Dinnertime is a cinch, too, with nearby Mistra and Blue Canyon restaurants, offering casual and family-friendly dining.
When planning a day trip, call ahead to Which Wich in Rockwall. The sandwich shop will deliver sandwich boxes directly to the boat for your hungry family. Of course, guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks for the ride. Additional dining coupons to the hotel restaurants are available on a seasonal basis from Sail With Scott.
Whether you aim to sail the day away or a whole week (with overnight stays at the Hilton), bring your family plenty of sunscreen and rubber-soled shoes. Get ready to bid farewell to summer in leisure, basking in the sun and drifting in the breeze on the lake.
