A hub of activity steps from Downtown

Whether you travel by sailboat, motorboat or kayak, Petaluma is ready to welcome you. With a natural harbor in the heart of historic Downtown, boaters can tie up at the Petaluma Turning Basin and find themselves within steps of dozens of excellent restaurants, unique shops, antique stores, movies and live entertainment.

No wonder that Petaluma was selected as one of the “Top Ten Bay Area Leisure Boating Destinations” by Latitude 38 Magazine.  

Because of Petaluma's mild climate, fun on the Petaluma River isn't limited to the summer months. Our Events Calendar  highlights some of the year-round activity that flows on the river including Rivertown Revival, a slightly offbeat festival featuring an art boat race, live entertainment and arts and crafts like you've never seen before. The holiday season sets sail on the River with the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. The effect is magical as lighted boats sail into the Turning Basin against the night sky.

For Boaters:

The information provided below is available for download here.

To Dock in the Petaluma Turning Basin in Downtown Petaluma

Drawbridge Opening: Call the Petaluma Department of Public Works at (707) 778-4303.

OR click here to be directed to the City of Petaluma's online form to request a bridge opening.

• For openings between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 24-hour notice is preferred; 4-hour minimum notice is required.

• For openings between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. and on Fridays, weekends and holidays, 24-hour minimum notice is required.

Security:  Gates at the Turning Basin are locked between dusk and dawn. You will be given the access code by the bridge tender as you enter the Turning Basin.

Mooring Fees:  $23 overnight charge per boat. Click here to download the Mooring Permit.

Dock space: It is not assigned in advance and is on a first-come first-served basis.

P.I.C.Y.A. Members: Contact the Petaluma Yacht Club at 707- 765-9725 for information about available services.

To Dock in the Petaluma Marina adjacent to Sheraton Sonoma County – Petaluma (Less than two miles from Downtown Petaluma)

Harbormaster hours: Tues-Thurs. 10am- 3:30; Fri-Sun. 8am-5 pm; closed Monday. There is no charge for docking for one day during office hours with security deposit. Overnight mooring fee is $22. For more information and long-term slip rate schedule, call (707) 778-4489.

Services available:

• Fuel dock - gas only
• Key controlled security gates
• 167 slips
• Private restrooms/showers for boaters
• Full service utilities, including water, waste pump,  30 AMP electrical service
• Kayak storage available

Taxi Services