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Celebrate on San Francisco Bay

Private Yacht Charters  on San Francisco Bay!  Corporate events, birthdays, proms, grad nights & more!!!

Celebrate on the Bay

Don’t Wait To Book Your San Francisco Bay Yacht Charter

“We had a such a wonderful event! With so many choices on San Francisco Bay I chose YACHTSF.COM for our yacht charter and dinner cruise because they were so responsive and informative and helped me plan every step of the way. Thanks so much for your help.”

– Lyn Rubach

I never realized how spectacular the sights are on San Francisco Bay . This is an event I will remember forever.

San Francisco Bay’s fantastic views including San Francisco city skyline Golden Gate Bridge – Alkatraz – Sausalito Tiburon – Angel Island – Raccoon Straights the Bay Bridge – and more

Boat & Yacht charters, Dinner & Brunch cruises, High School Prom & Project Grad Events, Birthday & Corporate Events.

Golden Gate Bay Cruise

The original classic. a jaw-dropping one-hour nonstop adventure for your senses. not to mention the most famous bridge in the world, and an equally infamous island prison..

The Original Launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, our Golden Gate Bay Cruise has been the highlight of any visit to San Francisco for nearly 85 years. We start along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, sail under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and circle within feet of notorious Alcatraz Island. You'll discover the city's colorful history and world-famous landmarks with award winning narration available in 16 languages. Get up-close with our wild neighbors as well, including seagulls, pelicans, harbor porpoises, dolphins and sea lions. And keep an eye out for the occasional gray or humpback whale cruising San Francisco Bay!

About the Cruise

Departing from the heart of historic Fisherman's Wharf at Pier 43 1/2, we cruise alongside San Francisco's remarkable cityscape and the lively neighborhood of North Beach, the famous swimming clubs of Aquatic Park, the historic vessels moored at Hyde Street Pier, the San Francisco Maritime National Park, Ghirardelli Square and much more.

As we head west toward the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll view Fort Mason and the Marina District, which was damaged in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.  Next take in views of Cri ssy Field and the lush hillsides of the Presidio - both former Army installations - that are now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Don't miss incredible photo opportunities while cruising directly under the massive 4,200-foot long, 746-foot high span of the Golden Gate Bridge.

As we turn back toward the City, we travel past the wildlife reserves of the Marin headlands and the legendary town of Sausalito, which was once home to the late-1960's Flower Generation. With Angel Island State Park to our left, we slowly cruise around the infamous Alcatraz Island, hearing stories from inmates and historians about the famous prison. On your way back to Fisherman's Wharf, you'll see the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and Coit Tower as we cruise back along the waterfront. 

Route Map - Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Duration: 1-hour

Availability: Year-round

Several daily departures 365 days a year

Departures from Pier 43 1/2, in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf

Full Cocktail bar and snack bar available onboard. Cash and credit card accepted.

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Boarding on first-come, first-serve basis.

Adult (18+): $38.00 Youth (5-17): $29.00

Children ages 4 and under receive complimentary admission to Red and White cruises but need to be ticketed for capacity control.

If you have a child aged 4 or younger inform our staff in the boarding line and we will give you their complimentary boarding pass.

AUDIO TOUR AVAILABLE

SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE BAY

Risk free booking with our free 24 hr cancellation policy.

Sail with us and experience the beauty of San Francisco right from the water (bring your camera, these views are too good to miss!). Our spacious catamarans take guests on a stable, safe ride combining the exhilaration of fresh air and waves on our deck with the protection and outstanding views from our covered cabin.

Whether you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy or a romantic evening out for two, your sail on Adventure Cat is sure to be a memorable highlight. See some of the Bay’s most popular attractions up close and personal as we sail around Alcatraz Island, directly underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and head back admiring the city’s famed skyline – it’s quite a sight! Catch a glimpse of marine wildlife including pelicans, sea lions, dolphins, and even the occasional whale. Our sailing excursions are consistently rated among the top five things to do in San Francisco, and our thousands of happy guests can testify.

Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars

Wind - the original "zero-emission" transportation

# of other similar capacity sailing catamaran tours on SF Bay

DAILY SAILS

Experience the Bay from the best viewpoint! For an hour and a half, you'll be treated to fantastic views of Alcatraz Island, the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.

SUNSET SAIL

Want to see the San Francisco Bay as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean? Our 1.5-hour Sunset Sail is for those who want a serene, romantic experience.

Private Charters - Work Team Events

Private charters allow you to enjoy a longer sail on the Bay, plenty of space all to yourselves, and a departure time that suits you! It’s the perfect way to celebrate your day, on the Bay!

Father's Day Cruise

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The Cat Chronicles: Tales and Tips from the San Francisco Bay

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Have the Adventure of a Lifetime!

Explore the San Francisco Bay with one of our knowledgeable Captains, as we show you the glorious views and legendary landmarks of historical San Francisco!

We are proud to be ranked #1 San Francisco Bay Tour by TripAdvisor!

Touch of Gold Bay Tour

90 Minute Bay Tour

Adventure Waterfront Tour

45 Minute Cruise

Private charters available

45 Minute Excursion

Family Fun Tour

Explore the Bay!

*active duty military and senior rates available, exact route may vary based on tour package, weather, and sea traffic., have questions give us a shout..

We have provided private charter options for celebrities, film crew, wedding proposals, and countless other occasions. We operate 7 days a week (Mon & Tuesday are reserved for charters but call us and lets see what we can do for you!). Please Click Here to view availability. For addition questions including Private Charters please call (510) 612-1251 or email [email protected]

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Rated #1 SF Bay Tour by TripAdvisor

Our trip is family friendly for children 5 and older.

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Located at Pier 39

We are located on the west side of PIER 39, Gate "I" (as in India) down near the Sea Lions.

Pier 39, Gate I, San Francisco, CA 94133

Experience the San Francisco Bay

Enjoy the San Francisco Bay with a catamaran charter on our magnificent sailing yacht, Cat Ballou. With over 20 years of bay and coastal experience, our catamaran will go almost anywhere on our coast.

 Tours

Take a trip starting in the San Francisco Bay, out under the San Francisco Bridge, and out into the wide open Pacific. These trips are excellent ways to escape for a day out into the open blue.

 Corporate Charters

Treat your team to an afternoon or evening on the San Francisco bay. Whether you're looking to impress clients, build camaraderie with your team, or just hang out and relax, the Cat Ballou is perfect for any occasion.

Details at a glance

When you charter Cat Ballou, your party is the only one on the catamaran.

The maximum number of guests, including children, is twelve.

Board and drop off in Sausalito, at Schoonmaker Marina.

Certification

The Cat Ballou is a U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel. She is inspected annually, from top to bottom to ensure the safety of all passengers.

Our clients who took to the seas

Testimonials

Check out our 4.5 star rating on Yelp .

Sailing with Chuck is a true pleasure. His wisdom in life and in business are clear in everything he does. His passion for sailing makes the experience of sharing time with him on the water one that is impactful and unforgettable. Cat Ballou is an amazing ship and will redefine what sailing feels like for new and experienced sailors alike. This is an experience not to be missed!

Chuck is an incredible sailor and businessman. I've worked with Chuck in the insurance business and have sailed with him many times. He has a genuine passion for sailing and has sailed for many years. You won't find a better person to sail with or to do business with.

As the owner of Cat Ballou Sailing, Chuck exemplifies his position and provides a unique experience that can not be easily replicated. His knowledge of his ship is second to none, which directly translates to an incredibly rewarding experience for first-time and seasoned sailors alike. If you have the the opportunity, I strongly recommend calling on Chuck for his Team Building expertise as well.

Cat Ballou and Chuck provided our company with organized, thoughtful and well executed events. Because of his background in management training and sailing Chuck was able to provide a full days activities for our management team and clients that ranged from business and management training, team-building, great food and very pleasant days of sailing. I highly recommend Cat Ballou for company off-sites and client activities.

Chuck exemplifies the meaning of competence, confidence and professionalism. You sail comfortably, safely, in style; have the best times and learn more every time. Yeah, that good.

Boat particulars

Cat Ballou is spacious comfortable boat, with room to stretch out. She will accommodate you in style and grace. She is capable of great speed but is at her best cruising in the low teens.

Captain Chuck Longanecker

Captain Chuck, a U.S. Coast Guard Master with a 50 ton rating, bought the Cat Ballou in St. Martin in 1998. Then, with family and friends he sailed her back to San Francisco through the Panama Canal. It was an adventure of a lifetime. Cat Ballou is his 8th sailboat.

Captain Ken Peterson

Captain Ken, a U.S. Coast Guard Captain. With over 35 years of sailing experience, Ken is the boat's pilot when we're underway.

Donald Simpson

Donald Simpson is the a First Mate on Cat Ballou. He has a bachelors degree in accounting, and chucked the cubicle for a life at sea. Sailing and baseball are his passions. Kenny and Donald work together to keep Cat Ballou bristol, and provide world class service to our guests.

Start planning your adventure

The Cat Ballou is a popular boat and fills up fast. It's best to make reservations up to two weeks in advance if possible.

SAIL TODAY  on the beautiful  San Francisco Bay

SAIL TODAY on the beautiful  San Francisco Bay

Sailboat Charters in San Francisco

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Two Hour Private Charter For Two People $400.  Each Additional Person $50. Maximum Of Six passengers 

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• Sailing to Pier 39 where the sea lions have taken over a whole marina. You’ll pass on the lee side of Alcatraz to be greeted by seagulls. Then it’s off around Angel Island to Ayala Cove where you can see the beautiful cities of Tiburon and Sausalito. Experience the current in Raccoon Straight, while passing under the Golden Gate Bridge with the fresh ocean breeze on your face. With luck, you’ll see dolphins or whales. Jibe the boat back and enjoy the gorgeous city front of San Francisco. This tour requires four hours or more. 
• Docking by Sam’s Cafe in Tiburon for drinks and a burger or enjoy one of many other fabulous restaurants on the water. This is a four-hour minimum tour. 
• Sail by the baseball park and catch home run balls. This is a three to four-hour tour. 
• Pack a picnic basket or barbecue, and we’ll sail over to Angel Island. This is a full day event (six hours minimum).
• Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and see the sunset. This can be done in two hours. 
• Go out beyond the Golden Gate Bridge and sail in the Pacific Ocean. Depending on how far out in the ocean we sail, this can take two hours to a full day. 

(415) 602-8416 [email protected]

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• Bay Cruises

San Francisco Bay Tours: My 10 Favorite Boat Cruises on the SF Bay

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: February 12, 2024

There are so many great San Francisco bay tours and boat cruises that it can be hard to find the perfect one.

I've been on almost all of them and have a few thoughts on all of them.

I hope it will help you decide which one is right for you.

Some of the most popular picks by visitors include the standard 60-minute bay cruise as well as some of our sunset cruises.

If you are looking for something a little fancier, you will find a wonderful Dinner Dance Cruise offered by Hornblower. 

You can also head out past the Golden Gate Bridge to get in some whale watching while you are here or take a special cruise to watch the fireworks on Fourth of July or New Year's Eve.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

3 Top Rated Bay Cruises

• Golden Gate Bay Cruise : Most popular, runs often, 60 minutes
• Premier Brunch Cruise : 2 hours, buffet brunch, unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine, great views!
• Twilight/Sunset Cruise : Head out on the water in the evening as the sun sets, 90 minutes

1. Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Tour Length: 60 minutes

Tickets : Book your tickets

As I mentioned in my intro, this is by far the most popular cruise and a go to for many first-time visitors.

It offers a great overview of the SF Bay both from a sightseeing and history perspective. 

These San Francisco boat cruises leave from Fisherman's Wharf several times a day.

It's another reason why they are so popular--because they run the most often.

These San Francisco bay tours are offered by both the Gold and Blue Fleet and the Red and White Fleet.

I've been on the water with both companies several times and they both offer great service.

The only difference is that the Gold and Blue Fleet provides their narration over loudspeakers on the boat while Red and White Fleet hands out individual headsets. 

One benefit to the headsets with Red and White is that they offer narration in several languages, so this is something to consider if English is your second language.

Both SF cruise companies follow almost the same route.

The boat cruise leaves from Fisherman's Wharf and starts out along the northern waterfront.

You head west past several SF sights including Fort Mason , the Marina District and the Palace of Fine Arts .

You will then ride by Fort Point National Historic Site as you head to the main attraction - the Golden Gate Bridge .

After you float under the Golden Gate Bridge, you turn around for a second time under the bridge.

You will head to the northern side of the bay. You'll pass Sausalito , Angel Island and take some time cruising past Alcatraz Island . 

You can catch one of these San Francisco bay tours several times a day.

In the summer, each company offers about a dozen boat cruises. In the winter, it's about 7 to 9 (more on the weekends). 

Your ticket is good for any cruise for that day. When you arrive, you will line up for the cruise and those in front will board first.

However, don't stress too much (unless it's a really busy holiday weekend) as they don't often fill up all the way.

People also move around the boat quite a bit, so you don't really need to be first in line.

You can buy tickets for these cruises either online or in person.

>> Find tickets for this cruise on GetYourGuide

If you want a full write up of what to expect on this tour, you can also visit this page . It's my overview with more pictures and what to expect. In this case, I reviewed my time with the Red and White Fleet.

2. San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise

Tour Length : 90 minutes

Tickets: Book your tickets for this cruise today ! 

My second recommend for San Francisco bay tours is the Bridge to Bridge Cruise.

This one is run by the Red and White Fleet. It's a popular option, but only runs a few times a day. 

They are also usually flexible with timing too on which San Francisco boat tour you can board unless it's a really busy day.

You can stop by their dock at any time to confirm which tour you can go on for the day of your ticket.

It's slightly different from the SF Bay Cruise as this one offers 30 additional minutes on the water. It will follow the same route as above.

However, instead of heading back after circling Alcatraz, you will head on for a trip under the Bay Bridge.

You will also cruise past Treasure Island and the Ferry Building . So, it offers a little more fun on the water for just a few more bucks per ticket.

As with the Bay Cruise, the narration for the Bridge to Bridge Cruise is on personal headsets. You can choose from one of 16 languages on their headsets too.

>> Find tickets

3. San Francisco Champagne Brunch Cruise

Tour Length: 2 hours

The San Francisco Champagne Brunch Cruise is a great option from Hornblower.

What makes this one of my favorite San Francisco bay tours is the combination of the food/champagne and the cruise around the bay in the morning.

The buffet varies a bit throughout the year to allow for seasonal changes.

Some of the items you will find include fresh baked breads, a variety of salads, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, home fries, herb crusted beef, ham with country mustards, and SO much more.

And, of course, their house champagne (as well as coffee, tea, water and soda). 

You will cruise along a similar route to what was mentioned in the descriptions above including heading under the Golden Gate Bridge, near Alcatraz, near the Bay Bridge and past other top sights along the water. 

This is a really fun cruise and worth the extra money for a delightful experience.

This San Francisco boat cruise also picks up at Pier 3, which is NOT in Fisherman's Wharf, but instead close to the Ferry Building on the Embarcadero.

>>  Find tickets for all cruises on Viator

4. Twilight OR Sunset Cruise (Depending on the Season)

Tour Length : 2 hours

The Twilight or Sunset Cruise is offered by the Red and White Fleet. The difference between the two cruises is the time of year. 

The Twilight Cruise is offered during the winter months (roughly early November through mid-March). It's called a Twilight Cruise since the sun will already be down by the time the cruise is underway.

However, you do get amazing views of the lights on the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, San Francisco, and all around the SF Bay.

The Sunset Cruise is offered the rest of the year (roughly from mid-March through early November). They change the time this San Francisco boat cruise leaves in order to have you on the water during the sunset.

You will get some great views of the sunset as long as the fog has not decided to make its way into the bay before the sun goes down.

Both cruises follow the same route. They first head along the northern shoreline, then under the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz, past Treasure Island, under the Bay Bridge and then back to Fisherman's Wharf.

These cruises only leave once a day (and only Thursday through Sunday during the winter months), so your ticket will be for a specific time.

I love this evening cruise as they also serve a nice buffet of appetizers. You can also enjoy a drink or two on board (available for purchase at the bar). There is also a musician on board playing some light music in the background. 

It makes for a really nice evening on the water with family, friends or your romantic partner.

>> Find tickets for this fun cruise

5. Escape from the Rock

Tour Length: 90-minute tour

The Escape from the Rock cruise follows the same path as the SF Bay Cruises for the first 60 minutes. The difference with this one is that it offers an additional loop around Alcatraz as well as more stories about this famous island and its inmates.

In addition to hearing about SF's history, you will also hear more about Al Capone, Robert Stroud "The Birdman of Alcatraz," and those who tried to escape.

This one is very popular, but it only runs a couple of times a day.

Some people get confused by the name and think that it will stop on Alcatraz for a visit.

It does not.

It simply cruises around the island a couple of times, so you get some great views and photos.

This one is a good one if you missed your chance to get tickets to Alcatraz or if you want to see it closer up from the water.

If the timing of this cruise works for you, I would select this one over the standard 60-minute bay cruise as it gives you some great insight into Alcatraz.

6. Wine Tasting on the Bay

Tour Length : 90 Minutes

This awesome cruise is aboard Wine Therapy. This floating wine bar is a blast and allows you to sip on your local wine as you soak in the views from around the SF Bay.

The boat is a 45-foot classic yacht with seating both indoors and out. 

Your cruise starts and ends at Pier 39. You'll then head toward the Golden Gate Bridge, circle close to Alcatraz, enjoy the downtown San Francisco skyline, and then head back to where it all began.

The cruise is 90 minutes. The wine is by the glass and is not included in the price of the cruise.

>> Find out more and check for availability

7. Dinner Dance Cruise

Length: 2.5 to 3 hours

The Dinner Dance Cruise is the first on my list from Hornblower. This company features San Francisco boat tours that I would consider are more for special occasions.

They have larger boats in order to accommodate tables for their dinner dance cruises and they also have a higher price tag because so much more is included with this ticket.

The Dinner Dance Cruise is one of their most popular cruises and it runs a few nights a week (usually around the weekends in the winter and most nights in the summer).

It features a four-course seated meal with a choice of options within some of the courses.

After dinner, you can head outside for views of the SF Bay, enjoy a little dancing on one of their upper decks, or just sit back to listen to the music.

As for drinks, tea, coffee, water, and soda are included with your ticket. Their bar is open the entire tour and you can buy beer, wine and cocktails here.

What I love about these San Francisco boat cruises is that you get some decent views of the bay from almost all of the seats in the dining room. 

The other thing to note about these bay cruises is they do require that you dress up a little bit. No jeans are allowed, and they require business casual dress. 

It's the perfect pick for a romantic date night or upscale dinner.

One of the things to keep in mind with the Hornblower cruises is that they pick up at Pier 3, which is closer to the Ferry Building and NOT near Fisherman's Wharf.

There usually aren't discounts for these San Francisco bay tours, but I do highly recommend booking your tickets early.

They do sell out during the busier travel seasons and holidays. 

>> Visit GetYourGuide for more details and to check for ticket availability

8. Whale Watching

Tour Length : Varies from about 2.5 hours to around 6 hours

The next on my list of the 10 top San Francisco bay tours is our fun whale watching tours .

I'm cheating a little by adding it to this list because most of the time you will be on the Pacific Ocean for this boat tour.

However, you will cruise through the bay to get to and from the ocean.

I also wanted to add this one because these are some of my favorite San Francisco boat tours.

The waters right outside the bay are very active all year long with migrating whales, dolphins, dozens of birds and other sea animals.

These boat cruises are so much fun that it would be a shame to miss your chance to head out for some whale watching.

The Golden Gate Whale Watching tour runs from late April to October. This is the standard summer whale watching tour and leaves from Pier 39 up to 4 times a day.

In 2.5 hours, you will keep an eye out for whale activity and sightings. 

In the winter months, gray whales are migrating through this area and there is a special Gray Whale Sightseeing Cruise. This one runs December - March.

It only heads out once a day and only a few days a week. Even though there are fewer people around at this time, I find this one of my favorite times to head out whale watching. 

The great thing is all of the boat companies work together (you will hear them on the radio) to ensure passengers on all of the boats get the chance to see whales during the cruise.

9. Sunset Catamaran

Tour Length: 90 minutes

This is the second sunset boat cruise on my list of the 10 best San Francisco Bay Tours.

I offer this one as an alternative to the Twilight/Sunset Cruise for a couple of reasons.

First, this bay cruise is smaller and offers a more intimate experience. This one is better if you are looking for a more romantic evening on the water.

There are also fewer people on this boat, so you can get to know people a little better.

Second, this one is more casual.

They do offer a drink which is included in your ticket price.

The catamaran is smaller, but still has plenty of space.

They also have both indoor and outdoor seating. Soft-soled shoes are also recommended so you can easily walk around the catamaran. 

If you love the water and want to spend a relaxing evening cruising around the bay, then this is the tour for you! 

It follows the typical path with two trips under the Golden Gate Bridge, a cruise around Alcatraz, and a chance to see all of the wonderful sights along the water. 

It only runs once a night and the time changes by season to give you the best chance to catch the sunset.

The tour does runs from early March to the end of November.

>> Find tickets to this fun catamaran tour

>> Find some additional night tours on both land and on the water

10. Special Event Cruises

Tour Length : Varies

My final entry for my list of the best San Francisco bay tours is all of the special event cruises. There are several throughout the year for holidays, but three dates offer an extra special experience.

The first two are cruises for our amazing fireworks shows.

On New Year's Eve and Fourth of July, dozens of San Francisco boat tours head out on the water to watch the fireworks shows.

Some of them offer dinner and dancing, while others head out just for the show.

If you are around on either of these dates, I highly recommend one of these cruises.

Find out more about the NYE Cruises  and more on Fourth of July in San Francisco  on this page.

Fleet Week is another time of the year when you will find some special San Francisco cruises. They head out on the water for the very popular airshow that features the Blue Angels.

They offer cruises usually on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the shows and some also offer cruises during the Blue Angels practice runs. 

Learn more about Fleet Week on this page . 

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

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It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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San Francisco Bay Boat Cruises

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Discover our intimate, family-owned cruise company nestled at Pier 39, right by Fisherman’s Wharf, offering a unique San Francisco Bay experience. Indulge in our thoughtfully curated wine selection, a full bar, and a variety of non-alcoholic options, perfect for unwinding while exploring the bay. Embark on a captivating sightseeing journey with our public daytime or sunset cruises, or elevate your experience with a private charter tailored just for you!

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Explore the Fun in San Francisco Bay Boat Cruises! ★★★★★

We had a fantastic time viewing San Francisco from the water! We got to see the golden gate bridge and Alcatraz - all while drinking to delicious wine. The crew is phenomenal and we had such a great time. I highly recommend riding with them!!

We did this Wine Tasting/Boat Cruise for a team onsite and the feedback across the board was that it was the best onsite activity anyone had ever been to! The sites were incredible and Captain Evan and Brian were amazing at answering questions, pointing out whales and porpoises, and helping to keep the good times rolling! I can't recommend this tour enough!

The owner and crew are wonderful people that want everyone onboard to have a great time. The cruise was nice and leisurely and the ambiance was spectacular.

One of the best experiences my partner and I have had on vacation! Amazing views, great crew, everything was perfect. Loved that it was a smaller boat so it really felt like you're right in the water. Could not recommend more strongly!!

We had a FANTASTIC time on this boat cruise!! The folks on the boat are incredible (as is the full bar) and the views! It was a wonderful way to be a tourist while avoiding the crowds and still seeing the major sites. I actually live in the Bay and will now be recommending this tour to everyone I know. Plus you can’t beat the price!

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SF Bay Sunset Cruise

An SF Bay sunset cruise is the ultimate Bay Area experience! See the most iconic sights from the very special vantage of the water. Famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz Island, Crissy Field, Fort Mason, the Bay Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, Angel Island and more are shown in their best light; the golden hour – all while enjoying an unforgettable sunset.

An SF Bay sunset cruise is the perfect way to liven up your weekend. It’s an ideal mix of luxury and adventure! Choose an intimate private charter for a San Francisco sunset cruise on the charming, all wood Grand Banks, Cimba . Or get a fun group together and come aboard a classic tall ship like the Schooner Freda B . Another wonderful way to get out on the Bay is always a Public sails !

Sunset Sail on San Francisco Bay- Friday Nights

Full Moon July 2024- Sail on San Francisco Bay

Marine Wildlife and Ecology 2024 – Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge

All the planning for a perfect nautical adventure on the San Francisco Bay is already done for you. Check out our all-inclusive packages, including Angel Island and SF Giants in McCovey Cove.

Sailing on the San Francisco Bay

The San Francisco Bay is a world-class sailing destination. From chartering a boat for a private event to reserving tickets for a sunset tour, there’s something for everyone!

Team-building & Leadership Retreats

Grab your team and get out on the San Francisco Bay for an unforgettable company outing. Unplug and spend some quality time with your co-workers, with offsite experiences for teams of all sizes.

Yacht Charters on San Francisco Bay

Cruise the San Francisco Bay aboard a local motor yacht. Casual to full service events are available for all price ranges. Step aboard today!

Stay up-to-date on the latest maritime news around the San Francisco Bay. Whale sightings, regattas, nature reports, holidays and more!

Public Sails on SF Bay

Come aboard one of our weekly excursions, including eco-sails, sunsets and holiday fireworks cruises. Our ticketed events are a favorite for guests of all ages!

Memorials & Ash Scatterings

SF Bay Adventures has helped guests with celebration of life services on the SF Bay since 1988. Let our experienced team assist you in carrying out your loved one’s final wishes.

Marine Film, Production & Safety

SF Bay Adventures has been at the helm of marine film and photography projects on the San Francisco Bay for over 30 years. Safety services include small boats for swims, races and other special events.

Weddings on the San Francisco Bay

Say “I do” on San Francisco Bay! Select an all-inclusive wedding package or completely customize your special day. Our experienced staff is standing by to help you plan the perfect nautical wedding.

Angel Island

Some of the best and most diverse views of the Bay Area are found while hiking or meandering on Angel Island. Accessible only by boat or ferry Angel Island is located just off of the Marin County mainland. The island is a National History Landmark as it was used as an immigration station.

Whale Watching, Wildlife & Ecology

San Francisco Bay is uniquely located just inland of the Pacific Ocean. Marine Mammals, Birds and Wildlife are attracted to the protected waters that lay just inside and beyond the famous Golden Gate Bridge. The Bay’s brackish waters are hospitable for life from both the ocean and rivers.

Sunset Cruise on the SF Bay

Nothing compares to a sunset on the famous San Francisco Bay. Enjoy golden hour aboard a private sail, motor yacht charter or public ticketed cruise. SF Bay Adventures offers every price level for a magical experience on the water.

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The 7 Best San Francisco Boat Tours

Take in the city's major sights by water with one of these excursions.

Courtesy of Bay Voyager

Enjoy a thrilling ride past some of San Francisco's top landmarks on this boat tour from Bay Voyager.

It's no secret that many of San Francisco 's most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz and Fisherman's Wharf , are best seen from the water. Because of this, there are a variety of boat tours – from sunset sails to whale watching excursions – for San Francisco visitors to choose from. To help you narrow down your search, U.S. News relied on expert input and traveler opinion to determine the seven best San Francisco boat tours.

Bay Voyager – Touch of Gold Excursion

If you're looking for an adventurous way to tour the bay (and don't mind getting a little wet), consider this 90-minute tour from Bay Voyager. After boarding the 12-person rigid-inflatable boat, you'll zip under the Golden Gate and Bay bridges, passing Alcatraz, Fort Point and more landmarks along the way. You'll also enjoy expert commentary from your captain – a particular highlight for reviewers. Another high point? Observing the sea lions up close at Pier 39. Tickets start at $99 for adults and $69 for children ages 5 to 9. Departure times vary by day but may be available at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 4 p.m. Evening twilight cruises are also available, as are Alcatraz combo tickets.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Adventure Cat Sailing – Alcatraz Bay Sail

This 90-minute boat tour focuses on the history of Alcatraz – a former federal prison that housed some of history's most dangerous felons. Though you won't actually stop at Alcatraz Island, you will sail around the prison for an intimate look at its grounds before passing other San Francisco landmarks, such as the Ferry Building Marketplace and Coit Tower . Throughout the tour, you'll enjoy live commentary from the crew – a highlight for reviewers. The tour departs from Pier 39 at 10 a.m. Thursday through Saturday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Tickets start at $45 for adults and $25 for kids ages 6 to 12. Kids 5 and younger ride for free. Adventure Cat Sailing also offers sunset cruises, among other options.

San Francisco Whale Tours – Golden Gate Whale Watch

San Francisco's whale activity has been on the rise, making a whale watching tour a smart choice for your next trip. The Golden Gate Whale Watch tour takes you into the bay to see humpback whales, harbor seals, dolphins, porpoises and other sea life that may be swimming just off the shore. This 2 1/2-hour excursion, which is available from March through October, departs at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets start at $45 for adults, $35 for children and $40 for students, seniors and military members. Patrons call this tour awesome and incredible, though some express disappointment with the small number of whales spotted. If you're visiting between November and March, consider the company's Gray Whale Watching Tour.

Red and White Fleet – Golden Gate Bay Cruise

This hourlong tour departs from Fisherman's Wharf and takes you along San Francisco's majestic waterfront for views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and more. Audio commentary is available in 16 languages. You may even encounter wildlife, such as sea lions, harbor porpoises and whales, along the way. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, tours depart daily from 9:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., with reduced hours in the winter months. Tickets start at $34 for adults and $25 for youths ages 5 to 17. Children 4 and younger tour for free. The Golden Gate Bay Cruise earns mostly flattering praise from reviewers, with some tourists calling it the highlight of their trip. Because this is one of the Red and White Fleet's most popular cruises, the company recommends its California Sunset or Bridge 2 Bridge cruises for those looking for a break from the crowds.

Blue & Gold Fleet – Escape From the Rock

Blue & Gold Fleet's Escape From the Rock cruise takes you on a 90-minute sail around the famous Alcatraz Island. You'll enjoy beautiful scenery and hear audio commentary detailing Alcatraz escape attempts and the various felons who called this former maximum-security prison home. Audio recordings are available in nine languages. The cruise departs at 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m. daily from June to August. Tickets start at $42 for adults and $28 for kids ages 5 to 11. Cruisers say this trip provides a variety of great photo opportunities, and they applaud the audio commentary. Sunset cruises and day cruises around the bay are also available.

San Francisco Sailing Co. – Sunset Sail

On this two-hour sunset sail, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, among other sights. Plan to take amazing pictures of the sun setting and the surrounding landscapes during a journey reviewers call lovely and the perfect way to spend an evening. Tickets, which include two glasses of wine, beer, soda or water, start at $65. The tour departs every evening from May through November; specific departure times vary by month. Other tours include a 90-minute day sail and a two-hour weekend cruise.

ACsailingSF – Day Sail

Boating enthusiasts won't want to miss this opportunity to sail on an 84-foot yacht once used in America's Cup. This 2 1/2-hour tour takes visitors through the bay for a close-up view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Sausalito cityfront, among other sights. What's more, participation is encouraged, meaning tourgoers can help the crew hoist and trim the sails and steer the yacht. Tourists give this day sail rave reviews, calling it unique and awesome. Sails are usually offered twice a day Thursday through Sunday, though availability can vary by month. Tickets start at $150 per adult and $75 per child ages 5 to 12; water and snacks are included. Sunset sails and "express" two-hour tours are also available.

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , San Francisco , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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