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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.

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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 Crissy 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.

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Harbor Queen coming in to the dock.

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. 

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Sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge,

Golden Gate Bay Cruise

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.

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Pricing:

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.

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