(Mercurynews) - California’s grape harvest is in full swing — and so are the wine-centric celebrations. It’s high time to head to points north, south and east to experience the full glory. From sails to rails, oysters and stomps, here are just a few ways to immerse yourself in Northern California’s wine scene this season.

1 Santa Cruz sail and sip

The Santa Cruz coastline is a lovely thing, but nothing beats the view from the water. A sailing excursion aboard the 70-foot Chardonnay II is a great idea at any time of year, but on Friday evenings from April through October, the yacht company’s special charters ($63) offer a chance to sip wine with the person who made it. You’ll hear the winemaker talking about the process from grape to glass on the open sea. The Sept. 28 charter, for example, features wines from Santa Cruz’s MJA Vineyards, while the Oct. 26 season closer showcases Felton’s Hallcrest Vineyards.