Recent Searches
Clear
Close

Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

star-4.5823 Reviews
|
Badge of Excellence
|
San Francisco, United States
Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
See More
See More
Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
At popular Fisherman’s Wharf in the heart of San Francisco travelers board the boat to go on the Golden Gate Bay Cruise.
During the cruise, travelers enjoy great views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the sparkling waters of the San Francisco Bay.
Many people say the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge is from the water and during the cruise travelers enjoy a panorama view of San Francisco’s landmark.
See More

From $38.00

Lowest Price Guarantee

Select Date and Travelers

Number of travelers
0 Adults1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults5 Adults6 Adults7 Adults8 Adults9 Adults10 Adults11 Adults12 Adults13 Adults14 Adults15 Adults0 Children1 Child2 Children3 Children4 Children5 Children6 Children7 Children8 Children9 Children10 Children11 Children12 Children13 Children14 Children15 Children0 Infants1 Infant2 Infants3 Infants4 Infants5 Infants
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn more
Loading available options...
Safety measures
icon1 hour  (approx.)
Mobile ticket
iconOffered in: English and 11 more

Explore our promoted experiences

Overview

Explore one of California's most iconic settings from the beauty of San Francisco Bay. This narrated Golden Gate Bay cruise journeys alongside Alcatraz and Angel Island State Park, past the shores of Sausalito and beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. You can choose to view the sights from inside your boat or out on deck.
  • Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and by Alcatraz Island
  • North Beach, Sausalito, Marin Headlands, Angel Island State Park
  • Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating
  • Open ticket gives you the flexibility to choose any departure time
Saved to wishlist!

From $38.00

Lowest Price Guarantee
Book Now
One-hour cruise
Multilingual audio-guide in 16 languages
"Straight to the gate" access
Gratuities
Food and drinks. There is a full service bar onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.
Red and White Fleet , Pier 43, 5, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
Open in Google Maps

Please enter in Google Maps: "Red and White Fleet" or "Pier 43 1/2, San Francisco" for exact location and directions. Pier 43 ½ ticket booth (corner of Taylor Street and the Embarcadero)

This activity will end right where it started.
Your Golden Gate Bay cruise departs from Pier 43 in the heart of San Francisco's popular Fisherman's Wharf, home to many of the city's seafood restaurants. As the boat makes its way out into San Francisco Bay, you'll have great views (as long as the notorious Karl the Fog stays away) of the San Francisco skyline, as well as the bustling North Beach neighborhood and the waterfront Maritime National Park.

Over the next hour you will cruise the waters of San Francisco Bay on a guided tour, meandering west along Fort Mason and past the Marina District — which took a hard hit in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake — en route to the Golden Gate Bridge. Make sure and look up when sailing beneath the bridge's massive 4,200-foot (1,260-meter) span: it's a photo-worthy view that few people get to see.

Turning around in the waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the bay, you'll return east past the Marin Headlines and the harbor town of Sausalito, a favorite day getaway spot for San Francisco visitors. Continue alongside Angel Island State Park, often called 'The Ellis Island of the West,' and then cruise past the Alcatraz Island, home to the legendary former federal prison.

Heading back toward Fisherman's Wharf, soak up great views of the impressive San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and Coit Tower, a tall and slim concrete monument named for the eccentric Lillie Hitchcock Coit, an early 20th century-patron for the city's firefighters. Fisherman Wharf's famous sea lions will undoubtedly be barking their welcomes as your cruise returns to port.

Tickets are flexible, so the departure time and date of this round-trip day cruise are up to you (meaning if you've planned ahead but your flight into SFO is late, you can simply catch the next cruise, or even one on the next day. Tickets are valid up to one year from the original booking date). All cruise vessels include indoor and outdoor seating, public restrooms, and a seasonal snack bar. Audio narration is available in multiple languages.
Itinerary
Pass By:  
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
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.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Fort Mason, the Great Meadow
As you head west toward the Golden Gate Bridge, cruise along Fort Mason
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Marina District
Cruise along the Marina District which was devastated in the 1989 earthquake.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Golden Gate Bridge
Don't miss incredible photo opportunities when sailing directly under the massive 4,200-foot (1,260-meter) span of the Golden Gate Bridge.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Marin Headlands
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.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Angel Island State Park
Pass by Angel Island State Park to your left.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Alcatraz Island
Slowly cruise around the infamous island of Alcatraz.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
San Francisco Bay Bridge
On your way back to Fisherman's Wharf, look out for the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and Coit Tower.
... MoreLess
Pass By:  
Pier 39
After a full hour of exciting sights, the barking sea lions at Pier 39 will welcome you back to Pier 43.
... MoreLess
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • 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
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Transportation is 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.
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 400 travelers
  • OPERATED BY Red and White Fleet
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Learn more about cancellations.

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What is the policy on face masks and attendee health during Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise?
A:The policies on face masks and attendee health are:

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
See all safety measures taken by Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise.
Q:
What is the policy on sanitization during Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise?
A:The policies on sanitization are:

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
  • Gear/equipment sanitized between use
See all safety measures taken by Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise.
Q:
What is the social distancing policy during Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise?
A:The policy on social distancing is:

  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
See all safety measures taken by Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise.
Q:
What measures are being taken to ensure staff health & safety during Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise?
A:The policies on staff health & safety are:

  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
See all safety measures taken by Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise.

Traveler Photos

See More
See More

Traveler Tips

  • "Make sure you take a jacket if you want to stay upstairs!" See review
  • "Dress warm I would say regardless of the time, it's going to be cold." See review

Reviews

4.5
star-4.5
823 Reviews
5 stars
600
4 stars
172
3 stars
31
2 stars
9
1 star
11

Reviews by Viator travelers

Showing 1-10 of 823 reviews
star-5
Evening cruise in SF
Patricia_D
, May 2022
Incredible cruise and perfect way to take in the sights!! First time to SF and this is definitely a “must do” on the list of things to see in SF!
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Thank you for the fantastic review. We are so glad to hear the you had an incredible time. Please come back and visit us again soon!
... MoreLess
star-5
Heart eyes
Jurizza_R
, May 2022
So great. Price was affordable as well! My boyfriend and I loved the experience. Definitely recommend!!!
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Glad you had an enjoyable experience. Thanks for the recommendation!
... MoreLess
star-3
Another way to appreciate Golden Gate Bridge
Theresa_L
, May 2022
It was quite windy the day we booked this tour and really cold. The ticket säys that boarding time was 20 minutes before departure so we were very eager to get on the boat but we started boarding when it was five minutes before departure. Exciting experience to be under the Golden Gate Bridge and see it from another point of view. Clear safety instructions while on the boat.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
We are glad you enjoyed cruising with us. We do ask guests to arrive 20 minutes prior so that no one missed the boat. :)
... MoreLess
star-3
Short cruise tour
Sam_H
, May 2022
The boarding time was good, weather could have been better but it was a beautiful day. Advise ladies, make sure you bring cover (shawl) it gets very winded if you are on top in the wind.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Thank you for your review. It does get quite breezy out on the Bay.
... MoreLess
star-5
Cool temps but still worth it
Thomas_K
, May 2022
It was windy and cool but there is an inside area to sit so we could still enjoy the cruise. Learned about the area
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
The San Francisco Bay can be chilly! Thanks for spending your time with us.
... MoreLess
star-5
Awesome!
Vickie_M
, May 2022
Absolutely a must to do if you want you want to see the bay. Good view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Treasure Island and Pier 39! Highly recommend!
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Thank you! We are glad to hear that you had an enjoyable cruise!
... MoreLess
1 traveler found this review helpful
star-5
Fantastic adventure and tour.
Michelle_K
, May 2022
The whole experience was amazing! I have never seen the Gilden Gate Bridge from underneath. I had never been all the way around Alcatraz!
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Isn't it cool to sail under the Golden Gate!?!?! Thanks for coming out with us!
... MoreLess
star-5
Weather was clear and...
Marilyn_M
, May 2022
Weather was clear and views all around were beautiful. The narrative was very interesting and the Irish Coffee and Loco Cocoa was delish. Staff friendly and helpful. All in all a very enjoyable harbor tour.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
The Loco Cocoa has become a favorite! Thank you for your review. We are glad to hear that you had an enjoyable cruise.
... MoreLess
star-5
Great experience for a...
Snigdha_S
, May 2022
Great experience for a first timer to SFO. Loved the view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was way too windy but the view was great.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
Isn't the bridge awesome?!?!? Thanks for coming out on the Bay with us.
... MoreLess
star-4
It was a nice simple boat...
Lori_B
, May 2022
It was a nice simple boat ride. Slightly breezy and foggy but enjoyable none the less. Although we were running 5 minutes late, the crew guide waited for us to park which was super accommodating! #gratefulheart #daycruise #memorablemoments
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
That is awesome! Thank you so much. We are glad you enjoyed your time with us!
... MoreLess
star-5
Freezing but beautiful
Lizbeth_R
, May 2022
Due to the fog we weren't really able to see much of the golden gate bridge which was the whole reason for booking rhe trip. But regardless it was a lot of fun. Great trip with a great staff! Lots of fun thank you!! Make sure to take a thick sweater.
... MoreLess
star-5
Awesome
Susan_T
, May 2022
Breaching whales and just being on the water. Crew was very nice. Weather was cool but clear beautiful day in the city
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , May 2022
How lucky that you were able to spot the whales! They are very exciting to see. Thank you so much for sailing with us!
... MoreLess
star-5
Great Views
Tara_S
, Apr 2022
The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Alcatraz island are amazing. A must do when you are in San Francisco.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
We think so too! Thanks for the 5 stars!
... MoreLess
star-4
Difficult to hear
Roberto_R
, Apr 2022
Great cruise for the money, but headsets were nowhere to be found, nor were they offered. The audio coming out of the outdoor speakers was interesting, but weak and difficult to hear.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
I'm sorry the sound system was not working properly. I have made sure to share your feedback with our team.
... MoreLess
star-5
Awesome ride! Plenty of...
valerie_r
, Apr 2022
Awesome ride! Plenty of space to ride on top! Water was choppy passing the bridge but was expected. Drinks and snacks sold aboard. Fun experience
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
Glad to read you had a fun experience. Thanks for going out on the Bay with us!
... MoreLess
star-5
Lovely Ferry Time
Sue_R
, Apr 2022
Beautiful scenery. The ocean waves and the breezy wind. A nice trip to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. The sea life was nice off you caught them in time.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
The SF Bay is quite beautiful! Thank you for spending part of your day with us! Come back again soon!
... MoreLess
star-5
Worth it
Jamey_C
, Apr 2022
Even though it was a little foggy when we set out for our cruise, there were still plenty of sites to see! The audio tour on the cruise was very informative and made it easy to follow along with each attraction we went by. There was plenty of space on the boat which was very nice. The crew was very kind and welcoming as well. I enjoyed all the views and was able to take lots of amazing pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
Thank you for the 5-star review!
... MoreLess
star-4
Loved it!!!! Informative and exciting!!
Avelyn_C
, Apr 2022
The story of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate!! Awesome experience ....would love to see it again in the near future.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
We would love to welcome you back!
... MoreLess
star-5
Day on the bay
Michael_M
, Apr 2022
It was a beautiful day a bit windy but I liked the option of indoor versus outdoor. Full bar with snacks is a great perk.
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
Glad you enjoyed your cruise!
... MoreLess
star-5
Refreshing birthday ride
Heidrun_H
, Apr 2022
This was ab perfect activity for our family, marking the 21st birthday of our son. Thank you so much!
... MoreLess
icon Response from Host , Apr 2022
Happy Birthday to your son! Thanks for cruising with us on your special day!
... MoreLess

Compare Similar Experiences

Current
Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
star-4.5823
1 hour
Free Cancellation
From
$38.00
Likely to Sell Out
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Twilight or Sunset Cruise
star-4.5865
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$50.00
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Cruise
star-4.5116
1 hour
Free Cancellation
From
$36.00
Golden Gate Bridge Bike Rentals
star-535
1 day
Free Cancellation
From
$17.36
Likely to Sell Out
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise
star-4.5354
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$48.00
Golden Gate Bridge Bike Rental - Near the Golden Gate Bridge!
star-4.546
N/A
Free Cancellation
From
$40.00
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Escape from the Rock Cruise
star-473
1 hour 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$46.00
San Francisco Bike Rental For the Golden Gate Bridge
star-4.549
N/A
Free Cancellation
From
$36.00
Golden Gate Bay Cruise + Fisherman's Wharf Walking Tour
star-4.54
2 hours
Free Cancellation
From
$65.00

Explore Similar Things to Do

Private and LuxuryAudio GuidesDay CruisesWater ToursFull-day ToursWater SportsCruises, Sailing & Water ToursLuxury & Special OccasionsOutdoor ActivitiesTours & SightseeingSan FranciscoPrivate and Luxury - CaliforniaAudio Guides - CaliforniaDay Cruises - CaliforniaWater Tours - CaliforniaFull-day Tours - CaliforniaPrivate and Luxury - SausalitoAudio Guides - SausalitoDay Cruises - SausalitoWater Tours - SausalitoFull-day Tours - SausalitoPrivate and Luxury - Napa & SonomaAudio Guides - Napa & SonomaDay Cruises - Napa & SonomaWater Tours - Napa & SonomaFull-day Tours - Napa & SonomaCategory

Attractions in San Francisco

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMoMA) Tours & TicketsMacondray Lane Tours & TicketsSausalito Vista Point Tours & TicketsTransamerica Pyramid Tours & TicketsMarket Street Tours & TicketsRussian Hill Tours & TicketsMarin Headlands Tours & TicketsDavies Symphony Hall Tours & TicketsMarine Mammal Center Tours & TicketsNorth Beach Tours & TicketsSan Francisco Treasure Island Tours & TicketsVesuvio Cafe Tours & TicketsCable Car Museum Tours & TicketsSaints Peter and Paul Church Tours & TicketsFort Mason Tours & TicketsGolden Gate National Recreation Area Tours & TicketsCrissy Field Tours & TicketsAquarium of the Bay Tours & TicketsGhirardelli Square Tours & TicketsCivic Center Tours & Tickets