America · BOAT TOURS IN SAN FRANCISCO
The shortlist to send a friend: 12 boat tours in San Francisco worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the thing to know before you pay.
1-hour cruise from Pier 43 1/2 for $38, sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge, near Alcatraz, with 16-language audio and wildlife spotting.
“It was magical on a sunny afternoon. I would recommend this experience to really feel the bay and its size and beauty. Very well run. Really enjoyed it!”
2-hour San Francisco sunset cruise past Alcatraz and Angel Island, under the Golden Gate, with skyline lights and onboard drinks.
“Great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and plenty of views. Was nice to sail along the coast of Sausalito, Angel Islsnd and Alcatraz.”
A 2-hour San Francisco Bay cruise from Fisherman's Wharf, built for skyline views, Golden Gate and Bay Bridge at night, plus Alcatraz.
“The tour had very little narration. The highlights of what we were seeing were prerecorded and played at inappropriate times. There could have been a lot more information on what we were seeing and a lot less music. People were allowed to stand on the sides of the rows obstructing the view of others”
Take a one-hour narrated Bay cruise from Pier 43 1/2, under the Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz and Angel Island, with flexible timing.
“Great views and the weather was great. Also they have refreshments on. If you want to take a great and close look at Golden Gate bridge and Alcatraz then this is option”
Ferry to Alcatraz for a 45-minute audio tour, then a 60-minute Bay Cruise past sea lions and under the Golden Gate Bridge.
“Both tours were well organised and easy to find. Good communication and got tickets in plenty of time”
A 1-hour skip-the-line Bay cruise from Pier 39 with sea lions, Golden Gate Bridge views, Alcatraz from the water, narration.
“We booked this trip to see the GG Bridge. It was worth every cent.”
Blue and Gold Fleet’s 90-minute Alcatraz Bay cruise, skip-the-line entry, Golden Gate Bridge views, and 9-language narrated history.
“Amazing cruise and very informative tour about the Bay Area and near by places. Would definitely recommend this tour. Remember to carry a hoodie as it gets cold on the upper deck.”
San Francisco Bay sunset cruise on a luxury catamaran: Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, and Pier 39 sea lions, plus 1 drink.
“We had a great time! The crew was great, the views were fantastic and it was a great memory. I love the fact they lend you jackets to wear during the sailing as it gets a bit cold and the water does splash on you!”
Visit Alcatraz Island with ferry transport and a top-notch cellhouse audio guide, then add a narrated San Francisco Bay cruise with big views.
“I loved it . even if I got turned around and took the tour backwards 🤣 that's what I get for seeing the sign to the audio tour abd the sign for lighthouse and going "oh look a light house! " and went that way lol”
90-minute Bridge to Bridge cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf, passing under Golden Gate and Bay Bridge with Alcatraz and Sausalito views plus 16-language audio.
“The staff were extremely friendly. The boat was very convenient and safe for family (we went with an infant and felt safe). Highly recommended. The location is not hard to find either. The parking near the Fisherman's Wharf is expensive and might have hard to find. So prepare to walk a few blocks depending on where you get the parking. Look for street side parking. They are cheaper than the parking garage.”
90-minute catamaran sail from Pier 39 past Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge, with sea lions, snacks, and a fun crew, $65.
“Our first attraction in SFO. Awesome, a fantastic adventure. Friendly, funny guide. Thanks a lot!”
Alcatraz Island audio tour plus a San Francisco bay cruise with Golden Gate Bridge views, smooth ferry logistics, and flexible sailing times.
“Great activity in SF, would 100% recommend. Alcatraz tour was fantastic, and the Bay cruise was cool too. The staff members were really helpful & overall we had a great time! :)”
Every kind of day out, and the best of each.
