About this experience
Embark on the original San Francisco Bay cruise, operating for over 85 years. In an hour, take in the sights of iconic landmarks like the North Beach neighbourhood, historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco Maritime National Park, Ghirardelli Square, Fort Mason, Crissy Fields, the Presidio, and more. The cruise highlight is sailing directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge for photo opportunities. On the way back, pass by Marin Headlands, Sausalito, and cruise around Alcatraz Island.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
- 1
Departure from Pier 43½
Board at the Red and White Fleet terminal and set off into the bay with views of the Embarcadero waterfront.
- 2
North Beach & Hyde Street Pier
Cruise past the lively North Beach neighbourhood and the historic vessels moored at Hyde Street Pier within San Francisco Maritime National Park.
- 3
Ghirardelli Square, Fort Mason & Crissy Field
The waterfront unfolds to reveal Ghirardelli Square, the former army post at Fort Mason, and the open green of Crissy Field along the Presidio shoreline.
- 4
Beneath the Golden Gate Bridge
The cruise highlight — sailing directly under the span of the Golden Gate Bridge for unobstructed photographs from the water.
- 5
Marin Headlands & Sausalito
Heading back, the boat passes the dramatic Marin Headlands and the waterfront village of Sausalito across the bay.
- 6
Around Alcatraz Island
Circle the infamous island prison for a close-up view before returning to Pier 43½ — the cruise does not stop on the island.
Meeting point
Red and White Fleet, Pier 43½, San Francisco, CA
Head to Pier 43½ on the Embarcadero waterfront. Boarding is first-come, first-served, so arrive at least 30 minutes before your chosen departure. Show your mobile ticket to staff in the boarding queue.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Mobile ticket (no printing needed)
- A jacket or warm layer — it gets cool on the water
- Camera or charged phone for Golden Gate Bridge photos
Know before you go
Good to know
Red and White Fleet
San Francisco's original bay cruise operator, Red and White Fleet has been running sightseeing voyages from the Embarcadero for over 85 years.
0.0
625 reviews
Frequently asked questions
Does the cruise actually stop at Alcatraz Island?
No — the boat circles Alcatraz Island so you get a close-up view from the water, but it does not dock there. To visit the island itself you'll need a separate Alcatraz ferry ticket.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. A mobile ticket on your phone is all you need. Show it to staff when you join the boarding queue.
Is the cruise suitable if it's raining or foggy?
Yes. Cruises run rain or shine. All vessels have heated, enclosed main decks with large windows, so you'll stay dry and still enjoy the views. In rare cases of severe storm conditions a sailing may be cancelled.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The enclosed main decks on all Red and White Fleet vessels are wheelchair accessible.
My child is under 5 — do I still need a ticket?
Children under 5 travel free of charge, but you do need to obtain a complimentary boarding pass for capacity control. Tell the cruise staff when you arrive in the boarding line and they'll sort it for you.
How early should I arrive?
Boarding is first-come, first-served, so the operator recommends arriving around 30 minutes before your chosen departure to secure a good spot.