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Golden Gate Bay Cruise in San Francisco, CA

Red and White Fleet • Pier 43 1/2 Fisherman's Wharf • San Francisco, CA 94133

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Golden Gate Bay Cruise: Sail around Alcatraz.

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$38.00

Total Price: $38.76 (USD)

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Overview

This scenic boat tour departs from San Francisco’s historic Fisherman’s Wharf. Snap photos of the energetic waterfront, magnificent skyline and as you sail under the Golden Gate Bridge! The ship circles Alcatraz Island, cruises by the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands and other fascinating sights. The whole family will enjoy the award-winning narration.

up to 1 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

Kid-friendly.
Children 4 and younger are complimentary.
Audio tour available in 16 languages.
Cruises from 10 AM (9:15 AM in the summer) until an hour before sunset, with departures every 30–45 minutes.
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your desired cruise start time.

Description

The Golden Gate Bay Cruise, first launched in 1939 for the Golden Gate International Exposition, remains one of San Francisco’s signature sightseeing cruises. This one-hour journey begins at Pier 43½ in Fisherman’s Wharf and sails along the city’s dramatic waterfront before passing beneath the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and circling Alcatraz Island.

Passengers take in panoramic views of San Francisco’s skyline, historic North Beach, Aquatic Park’s swimming clubs, and the historic ships at Hyde Street Pier. Highlights along the route include Fort Mason, the Marina District, Crissy Field, and the forested slopes of the Presidio. Personal headphone audio is available in 16 languages to share stories about the city’s vibrant history and landmarks.

The route also offers chances to see local wildlife such as seagulls, pelicans, sea lions, and occasionally harbor porpoises or whales. The cruise continues past the Marin Headlands and the artistic town of Sausalito, with Angel Island State Park and the infamous Alcatraz Island coming into clear view.

The return leg brings additional city vistas, including Coit Tower and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Back at Fisherman’s Wharf, nearby Pier 39’s resident sea lions often greet passengers. Visitors can also explore nearby maritime attractions like the WWII submarine USS Pampanito and the SS Jeremiah O’Brien.

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Golden Gate Bay Cruise is located at Red and White Fleet • Pier 43 1/2 Fisherman's Wharf • San Francisco, CA 94133

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Frequently Asked Questions about Golden Gate Bay Cruise

What should I wear?

San Francisco has many microclimates with frequent weather changes. It can be windy and cold on San Francisco Bay one moment, and hot and sunny the next. So we recommend that you dress in layers and bring a jacket to make sure you are comfortable throughout your tour. In case it rains, don’t worry as the boats have heated interiors with big viewing windows.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise departs from Pier 43½, located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf at the end of Taylor Street. You can find the location on most GPS devices by entering “Red and White Fleet” as the destination.

Is the tour appropriate for children?

Yes, the cruise is fun for all ages. Children ages 4 and under receive complimentary admission but need to be ticketed for capacity control.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The enclosed main decks of all the vessels are wheelchair accessible. All of the vessels, aside from the Harbor Queen, have wheelchair accessible restroom facilities. Important: the ramps leading onto and off the vessels vary in steepness depending on tide levels. While the crew will make every attempt to assist guests, boarding can be difficult, particularly during low tide.

When should I be at the departure location?

Please arrive at least 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as they otherwise can’t guarantee available space and are unable to hold the vessel.

Do your rates include tips and gratuities?

Yes. Red and White Fleet’s® rates for San Francisco Bay cruises include all taxes, gratuities, fees, and personal audio tour. Of course, you are certainly welcome to tip staff members for excellent service.

How long is the tour?

1 hour.

Can I bring my own food/beverages?

Coolers permitted? Yes. Red and White Fleet’s® vessels are equipped with cafes, offering hot & cold non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, snacks, and merchandise for sale. Bar purchases can be made with credit or debit cards. They are unable to accept cash at this time. You may also bring your own boxed luncheons.

What is your policy on smoking?

California Law prohibits smoking in vehicles, public buildings, bars, and restaurants. Smoking is not permitted on Red and White Fleet’s® tours or while waiting in the boarding line. They kindly request that all passengers comply.

Do you go to Alcatraz?

Red and White Fleet® does not land at Alcatraz. They do, however, offer cruises that travel very closely around Alcatraz Island. Do you offer ferry service to Sausalito, Tiburon, or Angel Island? No.