Escape from the Rock! Cruise around Alcatraz
About this activity
Highlights
- Circle Alcatraz Island twice for comprehensive views
- Sail under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge
- Learn about infamous escape attempts and inmates
- Enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco's skyline
- Experience a 90-minute narrated cruise
Full description
Included / Excluded
- "Straight to the gate" access
- Food and drinks (available to purchase)
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Alcatraz access / ticket
Itinerary
This 1.5-hour 'Escape from the Rock' cruise departs from Pier 39.
Pass by: It takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island to see every angle of the former federal penitentiary, now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Pass by: En route, enjoy sightings of the city skyline and Angel Island.
Important information
Know before you book
- Cruise does not include landing on Alcatraz Island
- Wheelchair accessible on the first deck
- Strollers and service animals are welcome
Know before you go
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary on the water
- Bring a Wi-Fi-enabled device to access the audio guide
- Arrive early to secure a good spot on the boat
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible, only on first deck
- Children from 0 to 4 years old sail for free
- Times are subject to change without notice
Traveler reviews
Escape from the Rock
Escape from the Rock was an incredible way to experience Alcatraz from the water. Cruising around the island gives you a whole new perspective—dramatic views of the prison, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline all at once. The narration was informative and captivating, sharing fascinating stories about Alcatraz’s history and legendary escape attempts. The atmosphere on the boat, especially with the wind and the sounds of the bay, made the experience feel immersive and exciting. A fun, memorable, and unique way to see Alcatraz—highly recommend.
Fabulous trip, well worth the money
This was a fantastic trip! Boat ride was comfortable and fun. Choices to sit inside or outside. We loved the narration throughout the trip. It was a great mix of stories about Alcatraz (from prisoners and guards-similar to one you get when you do the tour on Alcatraz) as well as information about the city and history of San Francisco and the bridge. I would highly recommend this trip.
Miss
Not to happy with the tour, maybe it was my mistake but we were looking for Alcatraz tour not around the island. I was ask to select the language and we choose Spanish and tour was in English.
Bay Cruise A Historical Hit
We really enjoyed the cruise around the San Francisco Bay. The narrative was great and it was fascinating to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. Also, the narration was very detailed on the historical points about San Francisco, Angeles Island, the events which shaped the history of the Bay, and Alcatraz. I received a wealth of information. Great Tour. I would definitely recommend it to other visitors.
Interesting
It cost $39 - San Francisco Bay Cruise. You can easily get the ticket a few minutes before departure. They offer to take a photo of you before you board. When you get off, you can buy it. Pleasant cruise. Audio recorded tour is useful but it's sometimes hard to hear and follow - it's on the loudspeaker. A transcript would be useful for people to follow. Good opportunity for photos. Can be windy and a hat and sunglassses are useful.