bay discovery cruise

The Discovery offers breathtaking views of the sparkling bay and magnificent shoreline of one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

• panoramic views with versatile seating for up to 149 passengers
• 'comfort while you cruise' climate-controlled indoor main deck with restrooms
• an upper deck with patio-style seating and outdoor observation areas
• 2 bars with food and beverage options
• 3 options for signature daily tours, a calendar of specialty cruises, and the option to private charter for your own unique,  customized event

Our promise to you is beautiful memories with unparalleled hospitality, while also promoting stewardship of our lakes through support of local conservatory programs and our commitment to the environment in every decision we make.

We welcome you aboard and look forward to meeting you!

-The Discovery Team

Bay Discovery Tour Tickets

Bay Discovery Tour Ticket 

Bay Discovery Cruise: A National Park Tour Join A Sightseeing Adventure On San Francisco Bay!

Departure: AM: 11:10 PM: 1:10

• 90-minute sightseeing cruise (No drop-off at Alcatraz Island)
• It is recommended to arrive at least thirty  (30) minutes prior to your departure time
• Immerse  yourself in the history of the Bay Area’s National Parks and the expansive beauty of the Golden Gate National Recreational Area.
• Explore  the many layers of Alcatraz Island history, including the Native American occupation and the lives of colorful inmates.
• Imagine  yourself surrounded by the solitude and age-old redwoods of Muir Woods.
• Identify  the defensive positioning of Bay Area Forts during the Gold Rush and Civil War.
• Learn  how the bustling energy of World’s Fairs revitalized San Francisco after the destruction of the 1906 Earthquake and fires.
• Discover  how the Second World War brought lasting changes to the San Francisco waterfront.
• The Golden Gate Bridge*
• Alcatraz Island*
• Angel Island
• The Marin Headlands
• Fort Point / Presidio
• Ghirardelli Square
• San Francisco Skyline

What you will see

• Parking lots are located around Pier 33
• The Embarcado & Bay St. trolley stop is directly across from Pier 33
• It is advisable to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before departure
• Visitor restrooms are available at Pier 33

• Dress warmly on the boat: Even if the day is hot and sunny, temperatures on the ferry can be chilly, especially when the wind is blowing in the bay.
• Bring snacks and water: There is a gift shop on Alcatraz Island, but it can be pricey and can have lines.

Book your tickets today!

Don’t let your luck “escape”, book your Alcatraz tickets before it’s too late!

Similar tours

Choose the Tour you like the most! Tickets are going very fast!

Day Tour Tickets

Step back in time on the day trip to Alcatraz Island and discover the legendary prison that was home to the greatest criminals such as AL CAPONE!

Night Tour Tickets

Do you dare to walk the corridors of Alcatraz in the dark of the night? This experience will engrave in you unforgettable memories! Buy your Alcatraz Tickets now!

Group Reservations

Groups are invited to explore Alcatraz Island all year round. Elevate your group’s experience to an unforgettable level.

Alcatraz Day Tour

Alcatraz night tour.

• Bay Discovery Cruise
• Alcatraz Behind The Scenes Tour
• Book Your Tour Now!
• About Alcatraz
• Park Programs
• Alcatraz History
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• Before You Visit
• Accessibility & Parking

News + Information

• Alcatraz - Wednesday, September 25 Current Conditions: A Few Clouds and 57°F Same-Day Tickets Available. -->
• Experience Alcatraz: The Day Tour , the Night Tour , or if you have 4-5 hours: the Behind The Scenes Tour - See areas of Alcatraz previously unavailable to the public. Open a hidden doorway, go through a secret tunnel, visit an underground jail.
• Weekend Alcatraz Tours often sell out days in advance. A suitable alternative to an Alcatraz Tour is the Bay Discovery Cruise , a 90-minute San Francisco Bay Cruise with an app-based audio tour available in 20 languages. Learn more.
• Mobile E-Ticket Check-in: Book your tour now. Save time, skip the long ticket line. Popular Alcatraz tour dates can sell out days or weeks in advance.

Visit the legendary island that has been a civil war fort, a military prison and one of the most notorious federal penitentiaries.

An engaging evening Alcatraz experience with special programs. The Complete Tour.

Thank you for visiting www.alcatrazislandtickets.com . Reservations and E-tickets are genuine for the tour which includes the ferry service. We also provide extended around-the-clock customer care seven days a week, including holidays. We're a private Customer Service and Booking company. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. Please share your experience with us at: Customer Care . This website isn't affiliated with any government entity and isn't the official box office. Total at checkout may exceed face value.  

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Online News & Entertainment

Join The Bay Discovery Cruise In Annapolis This Autumn To Search For Aquatic Wildlife

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. – The Bay Discovery Cruise is accepting attendees to spend an afternoon aboard a cruise on the Chesapeake Bay to search for wildlife. This is a unique chance to explore the Chesapeake Bay under the guidance of a CBF boat captain.

For members of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the registration fee is $40.00 , while the price is $60.00 for non-members. You can join the Chesapeake Bay Foundation by donating to the organization here . Registration for each cruise ends two days before the trip’s date.

There are three dates you can register for the Bay Discovery Cruise in Annapolis. The dates include September 19th , September 25th , and October 2nd . All of these cruises start at 4:30 pm and end at 6:30 pm . The start location for the Bay Discovery Cruise is the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, which is located at 6 Herndon Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403 .

During the Bay Discovery Cruise, participants will have the opportunity to ride upon the Jenny S and Marguerite, pull up nets to search for local aquatic wildlife, and learn about modern issues facing the Chesapeake Bay. 

If you aren’t familiar with the Chesapeake Bay, that’s alright because equipment, licenses, and knowledge of the wildlife will be provided to all participants. Adults and children aged 11 and older are allowed to register. Children and teenagers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.

The Bay Discovery Cruise will still occur if it rains, but the trip will be canceled in the event of thunderstorms or other severe weather conditions. Registration fees will be refunded to all participants if the trip is canceled due to the weather.

You can register today for any of the upcoming Annapolis Bay Discovery Cruises on this webpage . Spots for each cruise are limited.

About The Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is a large estuary primarily located in Maryland and Virginia. Over 150 streams and rivers flow into the Chesapeake Bay’s drainage basin, and the bay is home to many unique animals and aquatic wildlife.

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• Bay Cruises

San Francisco Bay Tours: My 10 Favorite Boat Cruises on the SF Bay

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: February 12, 2024

There are so many great San Francisco bay tours and boat cruises that it can be hard to find the perfect one.

I've been on almost all of them and have a few thoughts on all of them.

I hope it will help you decide which one is right for you.

Some of the most popular picks by visitors include the standard 60-minute bay cruise as well as some of our sunset cruises.

If you are looking for something a little fancier, you will find a wonderful Dinner Dance Cruise offered by Hornblower. 

You can also head out past the Golden Gate Bridge to get in some whale watching while you are here or take a special cruise to watch the fireworks on Fourth of July or New Year's Eve.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

3 Top Rated Bay Cruises

• Golden Gate Bay Cruise : Most popular, runs often, 60 minutes
• Premier Brunch Cruise : 2 hours, buffet brunch, unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine, great views!
• Twilight/Sunset Cruise : Head out on the water in the evening as the sun sets, 90 minutes

1. Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Tour Length: 60 minutes

Tickets : Book your tickets

As I mentioned in my intro, this is by far the most popular cruise and a go to for many first-time visitors.

It offers a great overview of the SF Bay both from a sightseeing and history perspective. 

These San Francisco boat cruises leave from Fisherman's Wharf several times a day.

It's another reason why they are so popular--because they run the most often.

These San Francisco bay tours are offered by both the Gold and Blue Fleet and the Red and White Fleet.

I've been on the water with both companies several times and they both offer great service.

The only difference is that the Gold and Blue Fleet provides their narration over loudspeakers on the boat while Red and White Fleet hands out individual headsets. 

One benefit to the headsets with Red and White is that they offer narration in several languages, so this is something to consider if English is your second language.

Both SF cruise companies follow almost the same route.

The boat cruise leaves from Fisherman's Wharf and starts out along the northern waterfront.

You head west past several SF sights including Fort Mason , the Marina District and the Palace of Fine Arts .

You will then ride by Fort Point National Historic Site as you head to the main attraction - the Golden Gate Bridge .

After you float under the Golden Gate Bridge, you turn around for a second time under the bridge.

You will head to the northern side of the bay. You'll pass Sausalito , Angel Island and take some time cruising past Alcatraz Island . 

You can catch one of these San Francisco bay tours several times a day.

In the summer, each company offers about a dozen boat cruises. In the winter, it's about 7 to 9 (more on the weekends). 

Your ticket is good for any cruise for that day. When you arrive, you will line up for the cruise and those in front will board first.

However, don't stress too much (unless it's a really busy holiday weekend) as they don't often fill up all the way.

People also move around the boat quite a bit, so you don't really need to be first in line.

You can buy tickets for these cruises either online or in person.

>> Find tickets for this cruise on GetYourGuide

If you want a full write up of what to expect on this tour, you can also visit this page . It's my overview with more pictures and what to expect. In this case, I reviewed my time with the Red and White Fleet.

2. San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise

Tour Length : 90 minutes

Tickets: Book your tickets for this cruise today ! 

My second recommend for San Francisco bay tours is the Bridge to Bridge Cruise.

This one is run by the Red and White Fleet. It's a popular option, but only runs a few times a day. 

They are also usually flexible with timing too on which San Francisco boat tour you can board unless it's a really busy day.

You can stop by their dock at any time to confirm which tour you can go on for the day of your ticket.

It's slightly different from the SF Bay Cruise as this one offers 30 additional minutes on the water. It will follow the same route as above.

However, instead of heading back after circling Alcatraz, you will head on for a trip under the Bay Bridge.

You will also cruise past Treasure Island and the Ferry Building . So, it offers a little more fun on the water for just a few more bucks per ticket.

As with the Bay Cruise, the narration for the Bridge to Bridge Cruise is on personal headsets. You can choose from one of 16 languages on their headsets too.

>> Find tickets

3. San Francisco Champagne Brunch Cruise

Tour Length: 2 hours

The San Francisco Champagne Brunch Cruise is a great option from Hornblower.

What makes this one of my favorite San Francisco bay tours is the combination of the food/champagne and the cruise around the bay in the morning.

The buffet varies a bit throughout the year to allow for seasonal changes.

Some of the items you will find include fresh baked breads, a variety of salads, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, home fries, herb crusted beef, ham with country mustards, and SO much more.

And, of course, their house champagne (as well as coffee, tea, water and soda). 

You will cruise along a similar route to what was mentioned in the descriptions above including heading under the Golden Gate Bridge, near Alcatraz, near the Bay Bridge and past other top sights along the water. 

This is a really fun cruise and worth the extra money for a delightful experience.

This San Francisco boat cruise also picks up at Pier 3, which is NOT in Fisherman's Wharf, but instead close to the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero.

>>  Find tickets for all cruises on Viator

4. Twilight OR Sunset Cruise (Depending on the Season)

Tour Length : 2 hours

The Twilight or Sunset Cruise is offered by the Red and White Fleet. The difference between the two cruises is the time of year. 

The Twilight Cruise is offered during the winter months (roughly early November through mid-March). It's called a Twilight Cruise since the sun will already be down by the time the cruise is underway.

However, you do get amazing views of the lights on the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, San Francisco, and all around the SF Bay.

The Sunset Cruise is offered the rest of the year (roughly from mid-March through early November). They change the time this San Francisco boat cruise leaves in order to have you on the water during the sunset.

You will get some great views of the sunset as long as the fog has not decided to make its way into the bay before the sun goes down.

Both cruises follow the same route. They first head along the northern shoreline, then under the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz, past Treasure Island, under the Bay Bridge and then back to Fisherman's Wharf.

These cruises only leave once a day (and only Thursday through Sunday during the winter months), so your ticket will be for a specific time.

I love this evening cruise as they also serve a nice buffet of appetizers. You can also enjoy a drink or two on board (available for purchase at the bar). There is also a musician on board playing some light music in the background. 

It makes for a really nice evening on the water with family, friends or your romantic partner.

>> Find tickets for this fun cruise

5. Escape from the Rock

Tour Length: 90-minute tour

The Escape from the Rock cruise follows the same path as the SF Bay Cruises for the first 60 minutes. The difference with this one is that it offers an additional loop around Alcatraz as well as more stories about this famous island and its inmates.

In addition to hearing about SF's history, you will also hear more about Al Capone, Robert Stroud "The Birdman of Alcatraz," and those who tried to escape.

This one is very popular, but it only runs a couple of times a day.

Some people get confused by the name and think that it will stop on Alcatraz for a visit.

It does not.

It simply cruises around the island a couple of times, so you get some great views and photos.

This one is a good one if you missed your chance to get tickets to Alcatraz or if you want to see it closer up from the water.

If the timing of this cruise works for you, I would select this one over the standard 60-minute bay cruise as it gives you some great insight into Alcatraz.

6. Wine Tasting on the Bay

Tour Length : 90 Minutes

This awesome cruise is aboard Wine Therapy. This floating wine bar is a blast and allows you to sip on your local wine as you soak in the views from around the SF Bay.

The boat is a 45-foot classic yacht with seating both indoors and out. 

Your cruise starts and ends at Pier 39. You'll then head toward the Golden Gate Bridge, circle close to Alcatraz, enjoy the downtown San Francisco skyline, and then head back to where it all began.

The cruise is 90 minutes. The wine is by the glass and is not included in the price of the cruise.

>> Find out more and check for availability

7. Dinner Dance Cruise

Length: 2.5 to 3 hours

The Dinner Dance Cruise is the first on my list from Hornblower. This company features San Francisco boat tours that I would consider are more for special occasions.

They have larger boats in order to accommodate tables for their dinner dance cruises and they also have a higher price tag because so much more is included with this ticket.

The Dinner Dance Cruise is one of their most popular cruises and it runs a few nights a week (usually around the weekends in the winter and most nights in the summer).

It features a four-course seated meal with a choice of options within some of the courses.

After dinner, you can head outside for views of the SF Bay, enjoy a little dancing on one of their upper decks, or just sit back to listen to the music.

As for drinks, tea, coffee, water, and soda are included with your ticket. Their bar is open the entire tour and you can buy beer, wine and cocktails here.

What I love about these San Francisco boat cruises is that you get some decent views of the bay from almost all of the seats in the dining room. 

The other thing to note about these bay cruises is they do require that you dress up a little bit. No jeans are allowed, and they require business casual dress. 

It's the perfect pick for a romantic date night or upscale dinner.

One of the things to keep in mind with the Hornblower cruises is that they pick up at Pier 3, which is closer to the Ferry Building and NOT near Fisherman's Wharf.

There usually aren't discounts for these San Francisco bay tours, but I do highly recommend booking your tickets early.

They do sell out during the busier travel seasons and holidays. 

>> Visit GetYourGuide for more details and to check for ticket availability

8. Whale Watching

Tour Length : Varies from about 2.5 hours to around 6 hours

The next on my list of the 10 top San Francisco bay tours is our fun whale watching tours .

I'm cheating a little by adding it to this list because most of the time you will be on the Pacific Ocean for this boat tour.

However, you will cruise through the bay to get to and from the ocean.

I also wanted to add this one because these are some of my favorite San Francisco boat tours.

The waters right outside the bay are very active all year long with migrating whales, dolphins, dozens of birds and other sea animals.

These boat cruises are so much fun that it would be a shame to miss your chance to head out for some whale watching.

The Golden Gate Whale Watching tour runs from late April to October. This is the standard summer whale watching tour and leaves from Pier 39 up to 4 times a day.

In 2.5 hours, you will keep an eye out for whale activity and sightings. 

In the winter months, gray whales are migrating through this area and there is a special Gray Whale Sightseeing Cruise. This one runs December - March.

It only heads out once a day and only a few days a week. Even though there are fewer people around at this time, I find this one of my favorite times to head out whale watching. 

The great thing is all of the boat companies work together (you will hear them on the radio) to ensure passengers on all of the boats get the chance to see whales during the cruise.

9. Sunset Catamaran

Tour Length: 90 minutes

This is the second sunset boat cruise on my list of the 10 best San Francisco Bay Tours.

I offer this one as an alternative to the Twilight/Sunset Cruise for a couple of reasons.

First, this bay cruise is smaller and offers a more intimate experience. This one is better if you are looking for a more romantic evening on the water.

There are also fewer people on this boat, so you can get to know people a little better.

Second, this one is more casual.

They do offer a drink which is included in your ticket price.

The catamaran is smaller, but still has plenty of space.

They also have both indoor and outdoor seating. Soft-soled shoes are also recommended so you can easily walk around the catamaran. 

If you love the water and want to spend a relaxing evening cruising around the bay, then this is the tour for you! 

It follows the typical path with two trips under the Golden Gate Bridge, a cruise around Alcatraz, and a chance to see all of the wonderful sights along the water. 

It only runs once a night and the time changes by season to give you the best chance to catch the sunset.

The tour does runs from early March to the end of November.

>> Find tickets to this fun catamaran tour

>> Find some additional night tours on both land and on the water

10. Special Event Cruises

Tour Length : Varies

My final entry for my list of the best San Francisco bay tours is all of the special event cruises. There are several throughout the year for holidays, but three dates offer an extra special experience.

The first two are cruises for our amazing fireworks shows.

On New Year's Eve and Fourth of July, dozens of San Francisco boat tours head out on the water to watch the fireworks shows.

Some of them offer dinner and dancing, while others head out just for the show.

If you are around on either of these dates, I highly recommend one of these cruises.

Find out more about the NYE Cruises  and more on Fourth of July in San Francisco  on this page.

Fleet Week is another time of the year when you will find some special San Francisco cruises. They head out on the water for the very popular airshow that features the Blue Angels.

They offer cruises usually on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the shows and some also offer cruises during the Blue Angels practice runs. 

Learn more about Fleet Week on this page . 

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The 7 Best San Francisco Boat Rides [2024 Reviews]

See those famous san francisco landmarks with a boat tour or bay sailing cruise..

There’s nothing like seeing the island of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and even the unique San Francisco skyline from the bay. A sailing cruise or boat tour can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.

San Francisco has a culture all its own and a visit there is well worth it. With trolley cars, the curviest road in the country, and even the unique Fisherman’s Wharf, there’s no lack of things to see and do.

Best San Francisco Bay Boat Tours

One of the most popular activities for those visiting San Francisco is a sailing cruise or boat tour. We’ve reviewed the top choices for you.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated San Francisco Dinner Boat Cruises

• San Francisco Bay Sail & Jail Boat Cruise & Alcatraz Ticket
• San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran
• California Sunset Cruise in San Francisco
• San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour w/ Drinks
• Luxury Brunch or Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay
• San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise
• Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise

Whether you would like to take a cruise of San Francisco Bay from the comfort of a catamaran or a large luxury boat, there’s guaranteed to be the perfect cruise or boat tour for you.

San Francisco Bay Boat Tour Reviews

1. san francisco bay: sail & jail boat cruise & alcatraz ticket.

• Departure Point : Pier 39, Gate J
• Departure Time : 11:00 AM
• Duration : 4 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Catamaran tour of San Francisco Bay, ferry ticket to Alcatraz Island, admission to Alcatraz Prison

During this combination catamaran cruise and visit to Alcatraz, you’ll be able to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and see Alcatraz from the bay waters. You may even catch a glimpse of the sea lions that call the bay their home.

A handy navigation guide will help you locate many of the landmarks you will see from the luxury catamaran. If you have any questions about them, be sure to ask the captain and crew. During the 1.5-hour sailing adventure, you may even be able to take control of the sails yourself, with guidance from the crew.

There are beverages available for purchase while on the catamaran, from water and sodas to wine and beer. You can take in the sights from a viewing area with comfortable seating or even experience the waves in a whole new way by relaxing on the trampoline nets.

After your catamaran sailing adventure in San Francisco Bay, you’ll receive the ferry ticket as well as your admission ticket to Alcatraz Island. Find Pier 33 and head out to the most infamous prison in American history, and even take the 45-minute audio tour with commentary from both prisoners and guards.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. san francisco bay sunset cruise by luxury catamaran.

• Departure Time : 7:00 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : Catamaran cruise, hors d’oeuvres, 2 complimentary beverages

The San Francisco sunsets are not to be missed. If you find yourself in the City by the Bay, you will definitely want to catch one while on a bay cruise.

You’ll be able to take in the sights of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, the friendly sea lions, and the unique city skyline. For a full 90 minutes, you will be able to experience San Francisco from a luxury catamaran.

While aboard the catamaran, you can take advantage of comfortable seating from the protected viewing area. If you’d like to experience the salty waves, you can always view the San Francisco sunset from the two trampoline nets.

A toast at sunset, to another fantastic day in this beautiful and unique city, can be shared by all on board. You will have your choice of two complimentary beverages as well as access to the light hors d’oeuvres that are served.

3. California Sunset Cruise in San Francisco

• Departure Point : Pier 43 1/2, right behind the crab sign at Fisherman’s Wharf
• Duration : 2 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Cruise, appetizer buffet, live music onboard, a complimentary drink and access to the full bar

Before sunset, your cruise will take you past many iconic San Franciscan landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower. Be sure to take plenty of pictures while enjoying free appetizers served buffet-style.

You’ll also cruise past Alcatraz and Angel Island before heading due west toward the Golden Gate Bridge to view the sun setting behind it and sinking into the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

While aboard, you will have live entertainment in the form of a guitar player or band. Toast to the beauty of another day in paradise with a complimentary drink. Additional beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are available at the bar.

If you’d like to purchase a souvenir while on your cruise to commemorate both the trip and the memorable sunset, merchandise is available for purchase as are snacks.

4. San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour w/ Drinks

• Departure Point : Pier 39, Dock F
• Departure Time : 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes to 2 hours (approx.)
• Includes : sailing experience on the Bay, full crew, 2 complimentary beverages

When you meet the First Mate of the Privateer at Pier 39, Dock F, he will walk you to the magnificent double-masted sailboat. Be sure to ask either before or after your cruise to have a crew member or other passenger take a picture of you and your party in front of her.

After motoring out into open water, the crew will raise the sails and you’ll be traveling San Francisco Bay by power of the wind. The first landmarks you will see are Alcatraz Prison and Angel Island along with the Bay Bridge. But that’s not all.

The beauty of the city of Sausalito can be seen back on shore as you head toward the Golden Gate Bridge. Your talented captain will navigate along the length of the bridge to give you plenty of time to take pictures of the bridge as well as of you and your party with the bridge in the background.

During the adventure, a member of the crew will be around to serve you two complimentary beverages of your choice. Soda and water are available, as are beer and wine. The crew can also answer any questions you have about the sailing vessel or the landmarks you see.

5. Luxury Brunch or Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay

• Departure Point : Pier 3 on the Embarcadero at Washington Street
• Departure Time : Variety available
• Duration : 2 – 2.5 hours
• Includes : Brunch or dinner (depending on option selected) , musical entertainment , unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine

This cruise offers the option of a brunch with unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine or a dinner cruise where you can watch the sunset and enjoy a nice meal while listening to the live musical entertainment.

Your captain and guides will be able to point out those famous San Francisco landmarks. Most can also answer any questions you have about these landmarks or the city itself.

You will meet at the famous  Pier 3 on the Embarcadero to board your cruise vessel. This 2 to 2.5 hour cruise of the Bay will take you past many famous landmarks, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and even around Alcatraz Island. When you return back to the Wharf, be sure to enjoy a drink and enjoy the street entertainment.

6. San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise

• Duration : 3 hours
• Departure : Pier 3, Hornblower Landing, San Francisco, CA 94111
• Includes : 3-hour yacht cruise, dinner, local DJs playing great music, soda, coffee, tea, water, scenic views of the bay, alcoholic beverages available for purchase

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and undoubtedly the best way to appreciate its beauty is by boat. When the sun starts to set over the bay, the golden sun seems to illuminate everything, making it that much more magical.

With the San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise Tour , you’ll get to see it all for yourself while enjoying a delicious meal with great company! This 3-hour event is the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and enjoy a special occasion, celebration, or simply enjoy life!

I actually discovered this tour because I was looking for a romantic restaurant, but I luckily found this tour and it really beat out any restaurant out there. It’s not too crowded, the service is top-notch, and the vibes were impeccable.

Right when we boarded our boat, we were escorted to our table where we were able to relax and enjoy the full 360 views of the gorgeous San Francisco Bay. The staff was more than willing to accommodate us and answer any questions we had, while bringing us plenty of drinks while we waited to set off.

Shortly after, dinner was served, which offered plenty of tasty American dishes as well as many international dishes that I really enjoyed. After having our fill, we got out on the dancefloor and danced to the live DJ who played plenty of songs we all knew.

It was a great time being able to dance with the one most special to me, as well as singing some party anthems with new friends we met onboard. Overall, if you’re looking to have a good time while enjoying SF’s beauty, it’s hard to beat this tour!

7. Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise

• Duration : 1.5 hours
• Departure : Pier 43 ½ San Francisco, CA 94133
• Departure Time : 5:30 PM
• Includes : Sunset cruise or twilight cruise (depending on time of year), “straight to the gate” access

The first time I saw San Francisco as an adult, I remember thinking to myself that I wanted to see it up-close. I didn’t know how I was going to do it, as I knew that many of the boats didn’t get that close and driving on it didn’t allow for me to fully appreciate its grandeur.

The Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise seemed to be the answer to my question, though! Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s one of the easiest tours of its kind to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

Simply select the time that works best for you, and head over to the pier down at Fisherman’s Wharf and get ready to board. The Wharf has tons of things to do, so make sure after the tour you enjoy some carnival games, a bowl of clam chowder soup, or just stroll around and enjoy the energy of this special place.

Once boarded, your captain will be there to answer any questions you may have and ensure everyone is safe and comfortable. I found there to be plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the impeccable views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

We passed by notable sites, but the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun set definitely had my attention. Going under the bridge and witnessing the phenomenal construction was truly mind-blowing, and hard to believe I was actually able to partake in this experience.

Our guide regaled us with countless stories of events, including the famous Alcatraz and the prison escapes that happened here. I also feel that this is one of the best San Francisco skyline views, so make sure to get those smartphones out to snap some photos!

FAQs About San Francisco Bay Boat Rides and Tours

What will i see on a san francisco boat ride.

The Golden Gate Bridge : This is the most well known landmark of San Francisco. This suspension bridge spans 1.7 miles across the strait.

Alcatraz Island : This infamous prison has housed some of the most notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. You will see it’s silhouette guard towers and the cell blocks from the water. For a tour, take a ferry to visit for a guided tour.

Angel Island : The largest island in San Francisco Bay. This state park has hiking, biking, camping and tours. You can take a ferry to visit the island for a guided tour.

The Bay Bridge: This bridge connects San Francisco and Oakland and consists of two sections along with a tunnel. You can also drive or bike across it for a close up view.

The Skyline : You will see the stunning San Francisco’s downtown area skyline, with it’s skyscrapers, landmark, and hills. From the water you will see its architecture and its scenic beauty.

What are the most popular San Francisco cruise combos?

There are a variety of combination boat rides:

Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour : With this combination tour you explore the redwood forest of Muir Woods National Monument and the charming town of Sausalito.

Alcatraz with Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour : This ultimate combination tour you see three of the Bay Area’s top attractions in one day. You get a tour of Alcatraz , walk through the giant redwood forest of Muir Woods and check out the Sausalito shops.

How long is a San Francisco boat ride?

Boat rides around San Francisco bay last between one hour for a short tour to three hourse for a dinner cruise.

Are there San Francisco boat rides with dinner?

Yes, there are a variety of boat rides that serve dinner from a casual buffet to a white linen, three course dinner.

What is the best time to go on a boat ride in San Francisco?

San Francisco is of course known for its foggy, cool weather, especially in the summer. The fog will obscure the views of the landmarks and the bay. In addition to the fog, the wind can make the boat ride uncomfortably cold. September and October are the sunniest and warmest months with mostly clear skies and mild temperatures.

Tour Guides

The San Francisco Bay Sail & Jail Boat Cruise & Alcatraz Ticket is our Editor's Choice for the best San Francisco Bay cruise.

Krysha Thayer

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Departure Schedule – Alcatraz Cruises

Departure schedule alcatraz city cruises, sunday, march 10, 2024 - saturday, november 2, 2024, sunday, november 3, 2024 - saturday, march 8, 2025, shopping cart, find your experience.

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