Summary
On a nice day, a San Francisco Bay cruise is an excellent way to rest your tired feet and see the city from a different angle. You have many options to explore. You can participate in a traditional sail around Alcatraz and underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, or embark on fascinating sunset sails, dinner cruises, and ferry tours. A bay cruise is undoubtedly one of San Francisco’s top-rated activities.
We’ve organized this San Francisco Bay cruise tours guide by activity to simplify your decision-making process. If you’re considering taking one while visiting San Francisco, these tours are frequently included with multi-attraction cards like the Go Card or the San Francisco CityPASS. However, one of the cheapest options to procure these tickets is through Goldstar.
The “Standard” San Francisco Bay Cruise
These San Francisco Bay cruises will take you around Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and along the waterfront west of Fisherman’s Wharf. They typically last between one hour to 90 minutes.
- Red and White Fleet: Departs from Pier 43 1/2 near Boudin’s and Fisherman’s Wharf. This cruise includes audio headset narration in eight languages. They offer two options: a one-hour bay cruise covering Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, or a 90-minute Bridge 2 Bridge tour, which includes a loop around the Bay Bridge.
- Blue and Gold Fleet: Leaves from Pier 41.
- AdventureCat: Unique for its 55-foot sailing catamaran experience. It departs from J Dock next to Pier 39.
Trip to Sausalito
A ferry ride to charming Sausalito for shopping and lunch is an excellent way to spend a day. This journey will allow you to see many of the same sights as the “standard” San Francisco Bay cruise boat tour, but at a lower cost. Consider using these companies for your trip:
- Blue and Gold Fleet: Departs from Pier 41 to Sausalito and Tiburon.
- Golden Gate Ferry: From the Ferry Building (near the Bay Bridge) to Sausalito.
Cruise to Tour Alcatraz
If you’re interested in touring the former prison on Alcatraz Island, keep in mind that while many cruises provide views of the island, if you wish to step foot on it, your only option is Alcatraz Cruises. They depart from Pier 33 near Fisherman’s Wharf. You can combine this tour with a visit to Angel Island on the same day for an “Island Hop.” To ensure you get an Alcatraz tour at your intended time, it’s advisable to reserve at least one week in advance.
Cruise to Angel Island
Angel Island is often referred to as the Ellis Island of the West. However, it has much more to offer beyond the fascinating Immigration Station. There are several methods to reach this destination:
- Blue and Gold Fleet: Departs from Pier 41 at Fisherman’s Wharf. They also offer a visit to Alcatraz on the same day for an “Island Hop.”
- Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry: Leaves from the town of Tiburon.
Sunset Cruises
- Red and White Fleet: Leaves from Pier 43 1/2 near Boudin’s and Fisherman’s Wharf. The cruise includes drinks and Italian-style appetizers. These sightseeing tours are available from early April through early October.
- AdventureCat: This 55-foot sailing catamaran departs from J Dock next to Pier 39. Their two-hour sunset cruise includes light hors d’oeuvres and two complimentary drinks.
Brunch and Dinner Cruises
Hornblower Dining Cruises offers an experience featuring champagne brunch, dinner, and dancing cruises, perfect for a special outing.
Holidays and Special Cruises
Be aware that some cruises do not operate on December 25. Many of the companies mentioned also provide special Fourth of July fireworks cruises, along with unique outings during Fleet Week in October.
The San Francisco Yacht Club’s “opening day” falls on the last Sunday in April (unless Easter coincides with this date), providing an extra festive atmosphere for cruising.
Tips
- If you are particularly susceptible to motion sickness or if the waters are particularly rough, take your usual precautions. The AdventureCat catamaran is designed to be more stable, making it a good option.
- Bring a sweater or jacket. It’s common to leave the dock in warm sunshine and return 90 minutes later to colder fog.
- While reservations aren’t always mandatory, if you’re concerned about availability, it’s wise to inquire ahead of time, understanding the cancellation and no-show policies.
- Remember to take your camera. If you wish to capture passing sights while sailing, try to keep your subject centered in the viewfinder instead of using the usual technique of remaining still.
