San Francisco’s bay waters offer excellent cruise options for every traveler. The best value comes from the 60-minute Golden Gate Bay Cruise, giving you postcard views and narrated history at a reasonable price. We love the Alcatraz Night Tour with Bay Cruise combo – it’s less crowded and more atmospheric than daytime visits. For romantics, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise delivers stunning views and memorable moments, especially when passing under the Golden Gate Bridge.
Special-occasion cruises like the Mother’s Day Brunch and the 5-Hour Sailing Tour are worth the splurge for their intimate atmosphere and excellent service. Evening tours showcasing the illuminated city skyline are particularly magical.
Let’s explore the finest boat tours San Francisco has to offer.
Key Points
- San Francisco offers a variety of high-rated cruises and boat tours, catering to diverse interests like sightseeing, brunch, sunset, and special occasions.
- The Golden Gate Bay Cruise, Alcatraz Night Tour with SF Bay Cruise, and San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise are popular options among travelers.
- Unique experiences like adventure and sailing tours, as well as special occasion cruises for events like Mother’s Day and Easter, are available.
- Cruises provide amenities such as onboard bars, multilingual audio commentary, comfortable seating, and accessibility features for enhanced traveler comfort and convenience.
- Cruises and boat tours in San Francisco have received consistently high ratings and positive reviews from travelers, indicating customer satisfaction.
Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
The Golden Gate Bay Cruise offers a one-hour narrated journey that showcases San Francisco’s iconic sights.
Departing from Fisherman’s Wharf, the cruise provides stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island State Park, Sausalito, and the Marin Headlands.
With indoor and outdoor seating, the cruise caters to all weather conditions. The multilingual audio guide ensures an informative experience for international travelers.
Customers praise the friendly crew and the scenic return past Alcatraz and Angel Island. While some note audio quality issues, the cruise maintains a high traveler recommendation rate of 94%.
Flexible open tickets and accessibility features make this an excellent option for travelers and locals alike.
Read our full review: Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Alcatraz Night Tour With SF Bay Cruise
For those seeking a unique night-time adventure, the Alcatraz Night Tour with SF Bay Cruise offers an immersive experience exploring the island’s eerie history.
Priced at $159 per person, this 4-hour tour includes a self-guided audio tour of the former prison, as well as a 1-hour sightseeing cruise of San Francisco Bay.
Travelers can expect to witness the haunting atmosphere of Alcatraz after dark, with notable sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.
While the tour is non-refundable, it’s highly rated by past visitors for its transportation and memorable experience, though the value for money could be improved.
Warm clothing is recommended, and advance arrival at the departure point is advised.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Alcatraz Night Tour With SF Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Travelers seeking a unique perspective of San Francisco’s iconic skyline can embark on a 1.5-hour sunset catamaran cruise across the bay.
The tour glides past Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge, allowing guests to admire the city’s skyline as it lights up. Guests can enjoy one complimentary drink and capture stunning sunset views from the catamaran.
With a capacity of 76 travelers and audio guides in multiple languages, the tour is accessible, stroller-friendly, and accommodates service animals.
Customer reviews praise the breathtaking scenery, friendly crew, and memorable experience, though they recommend dressing warmly due to the cool weather.
The tour concludes back at the marina, allowing for continued exploration of the city.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Bay Cruise
Celebrating a special occasion like Mother’s Day with a scenic bay cruise is a memorable experience in San Francisco.
The 2 to 2.5-hour cruise offers panoramic views of the city skyline and live entertainment onboard. Guests can enjoy a buffet brunch or plated dinner, with seasonal dishes like breakfast pastries, roasted red pepper bisque, and chocolate cake.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and the price of Kč 3,739 per person includes champagne, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and gratuity.
With a non-refundable cancellation policy, it’s important to plan ahead. Whether celebrating with family or friends, this Mother’s Day cruise is an excellent way to create lasting memories in the Bay Area.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Mothers Day Brunch or Dinner Bay Cruise Review
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5-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Tour
Visitors can embark on a captivating 1.5-hour sailing tour on San Francisco Bay, offering a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks.
The tour departs from Pier 39, with a maximum capacity of 28 passengers aboard a traditional double-masted sailboat. The sailing route provides stunning views of Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline.
Travelers can enjoy two complimentary beverages during the 90-minute sail. The crew provides a safety briefing and is available to answer questions.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Guests are advised to dress in layers and bring a valid ID for alcohol consumption.
San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Prison Tour With Bay Cruise
Tourists can experience a captivating 4-hour tour that combines a visit to the iconic Alcatraz Island with a sightseeing cruise around San Francisco Bay.
Priced from $132 per person, the tour includes round-trip ferry service to Alcatraz, an audio tour of the former prison, and a flexible bay cruise to see landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and has an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 85 reviews.
Guests are advised to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled Alcatraz departure, and the sightseeing cruise can be taken on any available day and time.
This comprehensive experience allows visitors to explore Alcatraz’s storied history and enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Prison Tour With Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise
The San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise offers a thrilling 1.5-hour tour by rigid inflatable boat, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks.
The small-group tour, limited to 12 people, departs from Pier 39 and passes attractions like Alcatraz, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
The professional guide offers live commentary, and weather gear is included to ensure a comfortable experience.
Passengers are advised to dress in layers and bring recommended items like warm socks, gloves, and a camera.
With a 5.0 rating from 335 reviews, this cruise is both fun and educational, suitable for locals and travelers alike.
Prices start from $109.00 per person, with free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee available.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Easter Buffet Brunch or Dinner Bay Cruise
For a unique Easter celebration, guests can indulge in a delightful 2-hour bay cruise with a bountiful buffet brunch or a premier 3-course dinner.
The cruise offers stunning views of the iconic San Francisco skyline, accompanied by live entertainment.
The buffet brunch features a selection of breakfast and lunch items, while the dinner menu includes starter, main, and dessert courses.
Both experiences include champagne for brunch.
The cruise departs from Pier 3 on the Embarcadero, with hotel pick-up and drop-off available.
Guests should bring a valid ID and dress in semi-formal attire.
Menus are subject to change, and dietary needs can be accommodated.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Easter Buffet Brunch or Dinner Bay Cruise Review
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2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay
Offering a romantic and relaxing way to experience the city, the 2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay invites travelers to embark on a scenic cruise aboard the Privateer sailboat.
With stunning views of Alcatraz, Sausalito, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, this tour showcases the Bay’s beauty at sunset. Travelers can enjoy two complimentary drinks while the crew navigates past Angel Island and the Bay Bridge.
Though weather conditions can impact the sailing experience, the tour consistently earns a 5-star rating from over 350 reviews, with praise for the friendly staff and memorable views.
Suitable for all ages, this sunset sail provides a unique perspective of San Francisco’s picturesque waterfront.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay Review
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San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat
Travelers can enjoy a one-hour Bay Cruise that allows them to skip the line and embark on a scenic journey around San Francisco’s iconic waterfront.
Priced at $38 per person, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include sailing beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, catching glimpses of Alcatraz Island, and marveling at the city skyline.
The cruise features indoor and outdoor seating, an audio guide in multiple languages, and a full-service snack bar.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on over 1,300 reviews, the experience is praised for its captivating views, especially of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat Review
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San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise
Aboard a 55- or 65-foot catamaran, travelers embark on a 1.5-hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty.
The cruise departs from Pier 39, offering 360-degree views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Sausalito coastline.
Onboard, an international team of audio guides provide commentary in multiple languages, while the crew is on hand to answer any questions.
Passengers can enjoy snacks and drinks from the onboard bar, though they’re advised to dress warmly and wear soft-soled shoes.
With a maximum capacity of 42 travelers, the cruise earns a 4.9-star rating and a Badge of Excellence from enthusiastic reviewers.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
Departing from Pier 43 1/2 at Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bay Cruise provides a comprehensive 1-hour tour of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty.
Priced from Kč 914 per person, this cruise offers 8-14 daily departures and features audio commentary in 16 languages.
Highlights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Sausalito, and North Beach, along with the potential to spot wildlife like dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
Onboard amenities include a bar with snacks and beverages, and the 5:30 departure features discounted drinks.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 2,862 reviews, the Golden Gate Bay Cruise is a popular and accessible way to experience San Francisco from the water.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco Premier Brunch Cruise
For a truly unforgettable experience, the San Francisco Premier Brunch Cruise offers a delightful combination of stunning bay views, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively entertainment.
This 2-hour cruise departs from Pier 3 and takes passengers on a journey to see the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
The brunch buffet features complimentary champagne and mimosas, as well as coffee and tea.
With a 97% traveler recommendation and 5.0 ratings based on 297 reviews, this cruise is a popular choice for special occasions and those seeking a memorable experience on the San Francisco Bay.
Read our full review: San Francisco Premier Brunch Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Skip-The-Line Escape From the Rock Bay Cruise
The Skip-the-Line Escape from The Rock Bay Cruise offers a thrilling 1.5-hour tour around Alcatraz Island, providing an up-close look at the infamous former prison. Priced from $47 per person, the cruise sails underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and circles the island, sharing informative commentary on escape attempts and notorious inmates like Al Capone.
With audio guides in 9 languages, the tour provides a comprehensive experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable commentary and enjoyable views, though note the cruise doesn’t stop on the island.
Guests should bring a face mask and charged smartphone to access the audio guide. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise is a convenient way to explore Alcatraz.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Skip-The-Line Escape From the Rock Bay Cruise Review
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Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise
Offering a straight-to-the-gate experience, the San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise takes passengers on a captivating one-hour journey showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks.
Departing from Fisherman’s Wharf, the cruise offers scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and other renowned sights.
Equipped with restrooms, indoor and outdoor seating, and a full bar, the cruise provides comfortable amenities for travelers.
Narrated audio commentary, available in 16 languages, enhances the experience with informative insights into the bridges’ construction, geology, and architecture.
With a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this cruise offers excellent value at $48 per person, making it a must-do activity for visitors to San Francisco.
Read our full review: Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Sunset Cruise
A captivating sunset cruise along the San Francisco Bay promises to enchant visitors with stunning views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the city’s picturesque skyline.
This 2-hour tour, certified by GetYourGuide, offers a unique perspective of the San Francisco waterfront, with ample opportunities to capture the breathtaking scenery.
With a 4.6 rating from over 1,400 reviews, this cruise is a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Priced at $58 per person, the California Sunset/SF City Lights Cruise provides a perfect way to end the day and witness the city’s transformation as the sun dips below the horizon.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Sunset Cruise Review
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Americas Cup Day Sailing Adventure on San Francisco Bay
While offering an exhilarating opportunity to experience sailing on San Francisco Bay, the Americas Cup Day Sailing Adventure provides participants with a unique chance to step aboard a racing yacht and actively contribute to the sailing experience.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, guests can expect hands-on participation, including steering and raising sails, under the guidance of a US Coast Guard licensed captain and professional crew.
Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour showcases breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the potential for wildlife sightings.
Praised for its well-maintained vessel, knowledgeable staff, and overall excitement, this adventure is recommended for moderately fit individuals seeking an unforgettable day on the water.
Read our full review: Americas Cup Day Sailing Adventure on San Francisco Bay Review
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San Francisco: Bridge to Bridge Cruise
The San Francisco: Bridge to Bridge Cruise provides a captivating 1.5-hour journey that allows visitors to enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $48 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options. Guests will cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, taking in views of Alcatraz, Sausalito, and the San Francisco skyline.
The experience includes an audio guide in 16 languages, and a live tour guide in English. With a 4.7/5 rating based on 892 reviews, the cruise is a popular and well-organized way to explore the city’s waterfront.
Accessibility features, such as wheelchair access, make the tour inclusive for all visitors.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Bridge to Bridge Cruise Review
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Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise
Offering a captivating 2-hour sunset experience on San Francisco Bay, the Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the city’s iconic landmarks in stunning evening light.
Operated by the renowned City Lights Cruise, the tour boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews.
Onboard the eco-friendly vessels, guests can enjoy a casual and relaxing atmosphere with no assigned seating or formal dress required.
The cruise showcases the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the Bay Bridge, all while sipping drinks and snacks from the full bar.
With wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and flexible rescheduling, this cruise caters to a wide range of travelers.
Read our full review: Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise Review
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San Francisco: California Sunset Boat Cruise
Departing from Pier 43 1/2 along the Embarcadero, the California Sunset Boat Cruise offers passengers a captivating 2-hour journey around San Francisco Bay.
Priced from Kč 1,394 per person, the cruise provides stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Angel Island, and other iconic landmarks.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, travelers can enjoy the romantic ambiance of glowing sunsets in summer and the city’s twinkling lights in winter.
The cruise is well-organized, providing excellent value for money according to customer reviews.
Passengers should arrive 15-30 minutes early and come prepared with warm clothing and necessary identification.
Read our full review: San Francisco: California Sunset Boat Cruise Review
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Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise
This combined Alcatraz Island and Golden Gate Bridge bay cruise allows visitors to experience two of San Francisco’s most iconic attractions in one day.
With 187 reviews and a 4.0 overall rating, the tour includes self-guided audio tours of both Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Guests will receive the official Alcatraz ticket, valued at $45.25, along with ferry access.
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. While the scheduling and ticketing process have received some complaints, the overall experience of the scenic bay views and Alcatraz cell house tour are highlighted as tour highlights.
Guests are advised to check emails for important information regarding the tour, which operates daily from May 2018 to December 2024.
Read our full review: Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise
For those seeking to witness the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from a unique vantage point, the San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise provides an unforgettable 1.5-hour journey.
Priced from $65 per person, this cruise offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and sea lions. Guests can opt to stand on canvas trampoline nets or enjoy the sights from a protected area.
Onboard amenities include snacks, soda, beer, and wine for purchase. With a 4.9/5 rating based on 453 reviews, this cruise is a must-do activity for visitors to San Francisco.
Reservations can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise Review
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Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour Plus Bay Cruise
The Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour Plus Bay Cruise offers visitors a captivating exploration of some of the San Francisco Bay Area’s most iconic natural and cultural attractions.
This tour includes a 90-minute visit to Muir Woods National Monument, where travelers can marvel at the ancient coastal redwoods.
Next, they’ll have an hour of free time to explore the picturesque town of Sausalito, known for its waterfront, galleries, and boutiques.
The tour concludes with a one-hour narrated cruise that sails under the Golden Gate Bridge and past Alcatraz Island.
Comfortable transportation and admission to Muir Woods are included, making this a convenient and well-rounded sightseeing experience.
Read our full review: Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour Plus Bay Cruise Review
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San Francisco: City Lights Sail Under the Full Moon
Visitors can experience the enchanting San Francisco skyline in a whole new light on the San Francisco: City Lights Sail Under the Full Moon tour.
This 1-hour cruise takes guests along the waterfront, providing views of the Bay Bridge light show, Salesforce Tower, and the iconic Ferry Building.
Two complimentary drinks are included, and light snacks are available for purchase.
The tour stays along the San Francisco waterfront, without passing under the Golden Gate Bridge.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pets, with the exception of service animals, aren’t allowed on this experience.
Read our full review: San Francisco: City Lights Sail Under the Full Moon Review
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San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise
Travelers can enjoy a three-hour yacht cruise on the San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise, which departs from City Cruises San Francisco at Pier 3, Hornblower Landing.
The cruise offers a buffet-style dinner featuring international and American favorites, with soda, coffee, tea, and water included. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The cruise accommodates up to 140 guests and requires booking at least 48 hours in advance, with no refunds upon cancellation.
Guests can expect scenic views, a DJ playing top hits, and a mix of positive and critical reviews highlighting the ambiance, service, and food quality.
Read our full review: San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise Review
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Recap
San Francisco offers a variety of captivating cruises and boat tours that allow visitors to experience the city’s iconic landmarks and beautiful scenery from the water. Whether it’s a sunset sail, night tour of Alcatraz, or a scenic cruise through the bay, there’s a water-based adventure to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences in this vibrant coastal destination.