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)

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
427 reviews
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Great Views!

Great view of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge as well as the downtown landmarks. Neat to see the back side of Alcatraz.

Kelli_DOct 14, 2026VIATOR

Boat tour SF

Great boat tour! Had the good fortune to book during SF air show. Highly recommend!

paulstupayOct 13, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Worth every penny!

Beautiful way to enjoy the bay! The staff were so flexible when we were going to be late. We left a message and they called us back within 20 minutes..They let us get in on the next group. Get there early if you want the best seats.

Debbie_MOct 12, 2026VIATOR

Amazing staff

Our boat cruise experience was amazing! The staff were so helpful, kind and accommodating, especially since we had our elderly mother with us on a wheelchair. They went above and beyond to help wheel her on and off the boat. Making sure she was comfortable and safe throughout the experience. We are truly grateful to the staff for their kindness and excellent service. Highly recommended!

Le_COct 10, 2026VIATOR

Would be nice to have snacks

It would be nice to have free snacks on the trip during the tour.

120sindirOct 9, 2026TRIPADVISOR

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.