Turning Basin is Turning Around

The Petaluma Turning Basin has long been a prized destination for Bay Area sailors, but a few years ago, crime against boats — from slashed cockpit cushions to boats being set adrift — became a problem. The unsecured docks allowed vandals access to visiting boats, and the Turning Basin earned an unsavory reputation.

Latitude reader Chris Eldon emailed recently to find out if the situation had improved and we’re happy to report that apparently it has. According to Lisle Lee of the Petaluma Vistor Center, security gates installed around the basin have essentially brought a halt to such incidents. "The docks are open during the day but require a code at night," Lee said.

Lee reports that while the docks, which hold upwards of 70 boats, are first-come-first-served, visitors are required to call the city’s Public Works Office — (707) 778-4372 — 24 hours in advance to request a raising of the drawbridge. As boaters pass through the bridge, the tender will provide the gate code. The fee to spend the night is a flat $22 and includes electricity and water, though there are no onshore facilities unless your yacht club has reciprocal privileges with Petaluma YC. Lee suggests that anyone thinking about visiting Petaluma by boat contact the Visitor Center at (707) 769-0429 for a boater’s information packet.

Have you visited the Turning Basin recently? Email Richard about your experience, good or bad.