Magpie
4.7(1,700 reviews)

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise (60 Minutes)

From$39
1 hour
Commentary: Audio · hi, de, ru, pt, ko, cmn, en, it, fr, he, es, ar, vi, th, ja
San Francisco, USA

About this activity

Experience a 1-hour scenic cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz Island, with multilingual audio commentary and onboard amenities.

Highlights

  • Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Pass by Alcatraz Island
  • Enjoy panoramic city skyline views
  • Spot local wildlife like sea lions
  • Learn about San Francisco's history

Full description

One hour scenic voyage - Ferry between Pier 43.5 and Fisherman’s Wharf while transiting along San Francisco’s breathtaking waterfront, passing under the Golden Gate and around Alcatraz! Learn the history of San Francisco Bay in an open-air museum setting and observe local marine life such as sea lions, pelicans, whales and more. Don't worry about the unpredictable San Francisco weather! This is an open ticket which is valid for use on any day up until the end of the year.

Included / Excluded

  • Multilingual personal audio-guide in 16 languages
  • One-hour cruise
  • "Straight to the gate" access
  • Restrooms: Access to clean and convenient restrooms during your cruise.
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks. There is a full service bar onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.

Itinerary

1

Pass by: Departing from Pier 43 1/2 in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, you'll sail past the San Francisco skyline and view the lively neighborhood of North Beach and San Francisco Maritime National Park.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

Pass by: As you head west toward the Golden Gate Bridge, cruise along Fort Mason

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Pass by: Cruise along the Marina District which was devastated in the 1989 earthquake.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Pass by: Don't miss incredible photo opportunities when sailing directly under the massive 4,200-foot (1,260-meter) span of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Pass by: Steaming back into the bay, you'll travel past the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands and the legendary town of Sausalito, home to the 1960s flower generation.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Pass by Angel Island State Park to your left.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Pass by: On your way back to Fisherman's Wharf, look out for the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and Coit Tower.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Pass by: After a full hour of exciting sights, the barking sea lions at Pier 39 will welcome you back to Pier 43.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Important information

Know before you book

  • Cruises operate daily with multiple departures; check the schedule for availability.
  • Tickets are valid only for the date and time specified at booking.
  • Gratuities for the crew are not included and are appreciated for excellent service.

Know before you go

  • Dress in layers to accommodate varying weather conditions on the water.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure timely boarding.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and landmarks.

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
  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Boat crew are trained to provide first aid and CPR support, and first aid kits are readily available on all vessels
  • The main deck of each vessel are fully wheelchair accessible
  • All cruise vessels offer indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and seasonal snack bar service.
  • Vessels operate on biodiesel - a renewable energy source.
  • The award-winning audio narration is available in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, Japanese, Italian, Russian, Hebrew, Arabic, Bahasa Indonesian and Vietnamese.
  • Please come to our location 15-20 minutes prior to the departure time.

Traveler reviews

4.7
1,700 reviews
5
1,347
4
261
3
56
2
11
1
25

Family review

Well organized and there is a narrator , recorded tour guide with a historically guided tour. Family friendly.

Genevieve_LMay 31, 2026VIATOR

An Unforgettable Way to Experience the Bay!

This cruise was good value. The views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz were stunning. The highlight of the trip was sailing all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge and passing directly beneath it. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, this is a must-do. Highly recommend to anyone looking to see the best of San Francisco from the water!

Jason_JMay 28, 2026VIATOR

Wonderful experience

It is best to pre-book and arrive 30 minutes early. The cruise gave wonderful history about San Francisco. I would do it again. I enjoyed it that much.

Falana_BMay 27, 2026VIATOR

Easy and Fun!

The boat tour was great. I went with my family, young of 11 months to old of 73 and everyone was able to enjoy the trip. The narration inside the boat was nice, but it gets hot, so we went outside and were unable to hear the narration. It was easy to board and deboard the boat.

michaeldT740CYMay 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great ride!

Wonderful ferry ride! Excellent views of the bay and bridge. The crew was great, recommending this ride!

Diana_GMay 26, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Boat crew are trained to provide first aid and CPR support, and first aid kits are readily available on all vessels The main deck of each vessel are fully wheelchair accessible All cruise vessels offer indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, and seasonal snack bar service. Vessels operate on biodiesel - a renewable energy source. The award-winning audio narration is available in English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai, Mandarin, Hindi, Korean, Japanese, Italian, Russian, Hebrew, Arabic, Bahasa Indonesian and Vietnamese. Please come to our location 15-20 minutes prior to the departure time.
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