San Francisco Bay Cruise

From$39
1 hour
Commentary: Audio · de, ko, cmn, ja, en, it, fr, es
San Francisco, USA

About this activity

Experience a 1-hour narrated cruise offering stunning views of San Francisco's iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

Highlights

  • Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Pass by Alcatraz Island
  • Panoramic city skyline views
  • Close-up views of Angel Island
  • Spot sea lions and local wildlife

Full description

You haven’t fully experienced San Francisco until you’ve taken a Bay Cruise. This popular 1-hour excursion heads underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz Island, past Angel Island State Park, and alongside the city's waterfront. Take advantage of fantastic photo ops and panoramic views. An audio tour is available on your smartphone, tablet or other WiFi-enabled device and includes a slideshow of historical photos. This ticket allows you to skip the box office line and go straight to the gate.

Included / Excluded

  • "Straight to the gate" access
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Take advantage of prime photo opportunities with unobstructed views in every direction during this 1-hour bay cruise, departing from Pier 39. Snap photos of barking sea lions that bask on the docks, and take a seat indoors or on the outdoor deck.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: Listen to complete narration describing major landmarks as you glide past. Or listen on your own personal device on our App for the audio tour in 10 different languages.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: You'll get the opportunity to sail right underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, hearing tales of the history of this famous gate that opens up to the Pacific Ocean.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: Your journey includes an up close look at the famous island as we sail around the best side for some great views of this infamous penitentiary.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Beautiful views from the water

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Beautiful views from the water

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: Beautiful views from the water

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: Beautiful views from the water

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

Pass by: San Francisco Landmark with a unique view from the water

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Cruises operate year-round; check the schedule for availability.
  • Tickets can be purchased online or at the dock; booking in advance is recommended.
  • Food and beverages are not included; consider bringing your own snacks.

Know before you go

  • Dress in layers; it can be chilly and windy on the water.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to secure your spot.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Children from 0 to 4 years old sail for free
  • Cruises may not operate during inclement weather. Check with ticket booth on day of sailing for schedule.
  • Multi-language audio tour available in nine languages (English, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, French, Japanese, Korean, German and Taiwanese). Please bring your Wi-Fi enabled device to access the tour.
  • Times are subject to change without notice.

Traveler reviews

4.4
382 reviews
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13

Great tour of the bay....

Great tour of the bay. Would recommend this tour to anyone who is looking to see San Francisco from the bay.

Molly_GJul 12, 2026VIATOR

We had a wonderful time....

We had a wonderful time. It was one of our best experiences yet! We almost want to go again! We highly recommend this tour!

Jamie_WJul 11, 2026VIATOR

It’s very beautiful and...

It’s very beautiful and very nicely documented- you get to hear a lot about San Francisco and its history. Highly recommended.

sandy_mJul 11, 2026VIATOR

Great quick tour of the...

Great quick tour of the bay. Takes you just under the Golden Gate Bridge and back. Lots of seating options and can move about the boat for pictures. Bring a sweatshirt or jacket regardless of weather-the bay can be chilly & windy. Definitely recommend this tour.

Shauna_HJul 10, 2026VIATOR

Fantastic cruise!

Be ready for fog and wind, but also be ready for fantastic cruise around san francisco bay.. you'll see all manner of birds and wildlife, as well as the big rock, meaning alcatraz, a view of the golden gate bridge from underneath, a narration, about all the other sites you'll see around the bay.

Debra_SJul 9, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Children from 0 to 4 years old sail for free Cruises may not operate during inclement weather. Check with ticket booth on day of sailing for schedule. Multi-language audio tour available in nine languages (English, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, French, Japanese, Korean, German and Taiwanese). Please bring your Wi-Fi enabled device to access the tour. Times are subject to change without notice.