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SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE BAY

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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.

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# 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!

Blue Angels Air Show

Watch the U.S. Navy jets perform their magic at the annual Blue Angels Air Show taking place between 1:00 and 4:00pm on Saturday October 9th and Sunday October 10th.

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Book direct with a promo code “summersail” and get 10% off the Bay Sail

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San Francisco Bay Boat Cruises

Bay area cruises from san francisco.

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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Public SF Bay Cruises

Enjoy the rich history, colorful culture, and breathtaking scenery of the city as our professional tour guides take you on an amazing adventure. Join us now!

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Private Charter

Upgrade your trip to San Francisco with a private charter that suits your tastes. Select a private charter and set out on an adventure that suits your needs!

• Departing from Pier 39
• See the Golden Gate Bridge
• Get up close to Alcatraz
• Cruise the city by the bay
• Use interactive map to click on icons for more information.
• Yellow is our 90 minute Public tour
• Red is our 2 Hour Private tour
• Route is subject to change due to weather or sea traffic. Our captain always chooses the safest most comfortable route.

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!

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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• 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?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

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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The 7 best san francisco boat tours and cruises.

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

The 7 Best San Francisco Boat Tours

Courtesy of 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

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 1.5 hours

If you're looking for an adventurous way to tour the bay (and don't mind getting a little wet), consider this 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.

Departure times vary by day but may be available at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. or 4 p.m. Golden Gate bridge tours as well as Golden Gate high speed boat tours cruises are also available.

Check prices & availability on:

Adventure Cat Sailing – Alcatraz Bay Sail

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $35 Duration: 1.5 hours

This 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 daily beginning at 1:30 p.m. Tours run Thursday through Sunday in November. Boarding begins 30 minutes before setting sail. Sailors can purchase soda, beer and wine for an additional price aboard. Adventure Cat Sailing also offers sunset cruises, among other options.

San Francisco Whale Tours – Golden Gate Whale Watch

Price: Adults from $120; kids from $90 Duration: 2.5 hours

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. Patrons call this tour awesome and incredible, though some express disappointment with the small number of whales spotted.

This excursion is available daily from March through December. Departure times vary by the day, but generally, tours are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The company also offers a Blue Angels air show cruise as well as a New Year's Eve fireworks cruise.

Red and White Fleet – Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Price: Adults from $38; kids from $29 Duration: 1 hour

This 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. The Golden Gate Bay Cruise earns mostly flattering praise from reviewers, with some tourists calling it the highlight of their trip.

Tours depart daily from 11 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., with reduced hours in the winter months. The tour also has a cocktail and snack bar, which guests can patronize for an additional price during the excursion. Because this is one of the Red and White Fleet's most popular cruises, the company recommends its California Sunset or Bridge to Bridge cruises for those looking for a break from the crowds.

Blue & Gold Fleet – Escape From the Rock

Price: Adults from $48; kids from $38 Duration: 1.5 hour

Blue & Gold Fleet's Escape From the Rock cruise takes you on a 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. Cruisers say this trip provides a variety of great photo opportunities, and they applaud the audio commentary.

The cruise departs at noon and 5:45 p.m. daily from June to the beginning of August. Tour times vary from mid-August through early November. Sunset cruises and day cruises around the bay are also available.

San Francisco Sailing Co. – Sunset Sail

Price: Adults from $129; kids from $64.50 Duration: 2 hours

On this 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.

The tour departs every evening from May through mid-January; specific departure times vary by month. Tickets include two glasses of wine, beer, soda or water. Other tours offered by San Francisco Sailing Co. include a 90-minute day sail and a two-hour weekend cruise.

ACsailingSF – America's Cup Experience

Price: $195 Duration: 2.5 hour

Boating enthusiasts won't want to miss this opportunity to sail on an 84-foot yacht once used in America's Cup. This 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 at 10:30 a.m. Friday through Sunday, though availability can vary by month. Water and snacks are included with a ticket purchase. Sunset sails and three-hour tours are also available.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Francisco Tours
• The Best San Francisco Walking Tours 

• The Best San Francisco Bus Tours

• The Best San Francisco Wine Tours

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The 7 Best San Francisco Boat Rides [2024 Reviews]

See those famous san francisco landmarks with a boat tour or bay sailing cruise..

There’s nothing like seeing the island of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and even the unique San Francisco skyline from the bay. A sailing cruise or boat tour can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.

San Francisco has a culture all its own and a visit there is well worth it. With trolley cars, the curviest road in the country, and even the unique Fisherman’s Wharf, there’s no lack of things to see and do.

Best San Francisco Bay Boat Tours

One of the most popular activities for those visiting San Francisco is a sailing cruise or boat tour. We’ve reviewed the top choices for you.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated San Francisco Dinner Boat Cruises

• San Francisco Bay Sail & Jail Boat Cruise & Alcatraz Ticket
• San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran
• California Sunset Cruise in San Francisco
• San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour w/ Drinks
• Luxury Brunch or Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay
• San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise
• Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise

Whether you would like to take a cruise of San Francisco Bay from the comfort of a catamaran or a large luxury boat, there’s guaranteed to be the perfect cruise or boat tour for you.

San Francisco Bay Boat Tour Reviews

1. san francisco bay: sail & jail boat cruise & alcatraz ticket.

• Departure Point : Pier 39, Gate J
• Departure Time : 11:00 AM
• Duration : 4 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Catamaran tour of San Francisco Bay, ferry ticket to Alcatraz Island, admission to Alcatraz Prison

During this combination catamaran cruise and visit to Alcatraz, you’ll be able to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and see Alcatraz from the bay waters. You may even catch a glimpse of the sea lions that call the bay their home.

A handy navigation guide will help you locate many of the landmarks you will see from the luxury catamaran. If you have any questions about them, be sure to ask the captain and crew. During the 1.5-hour sailing adventure, you may even be able to take control of the sails yourself, with guidance from the crew.

There are beverages available for purchase while on the catamaran, from water and sodas to wine and beer. You can take in the sights from a viewing area with comfortable seating or even experience the waves in a whole new way by relaxing on the trampoline nets.

After your catamaran sailing adventure in San Francisco Bay, you’ll receive the ferry ticket as well as your admission ticket to Alcatraz Island. Find Pier 33 and head out to the most infamous prison in American history, and even take the 45-minute audio tour with commentary from both prisoners and guards.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. san francisco bay sunset cruise by luxury catamaran.

• Departure Time : 7:00 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : Catamaran cruise, hors d’oeuvres, 2 complimentary beverages

The San Francisco sunsets are not to be missed. If you find yourself in the City by the Bay, you will definitely want to catch one while on a bay cruise.

You’ll be able to take in the sights of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, the friendly sea lions, and the unique city skyline. For a full 90 minutes, you will be able to experience San Francisco from a luxury catamaran.

While aboard the catamaran, you can take advantage of comfortable seating from the protected viewing area. If you’d like to experience the salty waves, you can always view the San Francisco sunset from the two trampoline nets.

A toast at sunset, to another fantastic day in this beautiful and unique city, can be shared by all on board. You will have your choice of two complimentary beverages as well as access to the light hors d’oeuvres that are served.

3. California Sunset Cruise in San Francisco

• Departure Point : Pier 43 1/2, right behind the crab sign at Fisherman’s Wharf
• Duration : 2 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Cruise, appetizer buffet, live music onboard, a complimentary drink and access to the full bar

Before sunset, your cruise will take you past many iconic San Franciscan landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower. Be sure to take plenty of pictures while enjoying free appetizers served buffet-style.

You’ll also cruise past Alcatraz and Angel Island before heading due west toward the Golden Gate Bridge to view the sun setting behind it and sinking into the waters of the Pacific Ocean.

While aboard, you will have live entertainment in the form of a guitar player or band. Toast to the beauty of another day in paradise with a complimentary drink. Additional beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are available at the bar.

If you’d like to purchase a souvenir while on your cruise to commemorate both the trip and the memorable sunset, merchandise is available for purchase as are snacks.

4. San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour w/ Drinks

• Departure Point : Pier 39, Dock F
• Departure Time : 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM
• Duration : 1 hour, 30 minutes to 2 hours (approx.)
• Includes : sailing experience on the Bay, full crew, 2 complimentary beverages

When you meet the First Mate of the Privateer at Pier 39, Dock F, he will walk you to the magnificent double-masted sailboat. Be sure to ask either before or after your cruise to have a crew member or other passenger take a picture of you and your party in front of her.

After motoring out into open water, the crew will raise the sails and you’ll be traveling San Francisco Bay by power of the wind. The first landmarks you will see are Alcatraz Prison and Angel Island along with the Bay Bridge. But that’s not all.

The beauty of the city of Sausalito can be seen back on shore as you head toward the Golden Gate Bridge. Your talented captain will navigate along the length of the bridge to give you plenty of time to take pictures of the bridge as well as of you and your party with the bridge in the background.

During the adventure, a member of the crew will be around to serve you two complimentary beverages of your choice. Soda and water are available, as are beer and wine. The crew can also answer any questions you have about the sailing vessel or the landmarks you see.

5. Luxury Brunch or Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay

• Departure Point : Pier 3 on the Embarcadero at Washington Street
• Departure Time : Variety available
• Duration : 2 – 2.5 hours
• Includes : Brunch or dinner (depending on option selected) , musical entertainment , unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine

This cruise offers the option of a brunch with unlimited mimosas and sparkling wine or a dinner cruise where you can watch the sunset and enjoy a nice meal while listening to the live musical entertainment.

Your captain and guides will be able to point out those famous San Francisco landmarks. Most can also answer any questions you have about these landmarks or the city itself.

You will meet at the famous  Pier 3 on the Embarcadero to board your cruise vessel. This 2 to 2.5 hour cruise of the Bay will take you past many famous landmarks, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and even around Alcatraz Island. When you return back to the Wharf, be sure to enjoy a drink and enjoy the street entertainment.

6. San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise

• Duration : 3 hours
• Departure : Pier 3, Hornblower Landing, San Francisco, CA 94111
• Includes : 3-hour yacht cruise, dinner, local DJs playing great music, soda, coffee, tea, water, scenic views of the bay, alcoholic beverages available for purchase

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and undoubtedly the best way to appreciate its beauty is by boat. When the sun starts to set over the bay, the golden sun seems to illuminate everything, making it that much more magical.

With the San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise Tour , you’ll get to see it all for yourself while enjoying a delicious meal with great company! This 3-hour event is the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and enjoy a special occasion, celebration, or simply enjoy life!

I actually discovered this tour because I was looking for a romantic restaurant, but I luckily found this tour and it really beat out any restaurant out there. It’s not too crowded, the service is top-notch, and the vibes were impeccable.

Right when we boarded our boat, we were escorted to our table where we were able to relax and enjoy the full 360 views of the gorgeous San Francisco Bay. The staff was more than willing to accommodate us and answer any questions we had, while bringing us plenty of drinks while we waited to set off.

Shortly after, dinner was served, which offered plenty of tasty American dishes as well as many international dishes that I really enjoyed. After having our fill, we got out on the dancefloor and danced to the live DJ who played plenty of songs we all knew.

It was a great time being able to dance with the one most special to me, as well as singing some party anthems with new friends we met onboard. Overall, if you’re looking to have a good time while enjoying SF’s beauty, it’s hard to beat this tour!

7. Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise

• Duration : 1.5 hours
• Departure : Pier 43 ½ San Francisco, CA 94133
• Departure Time : 5:30 PM
• Includes : Sunset cruise or twilight cruise (depending on time of year), “straight to the gate” access

The first time I saw San Francisco as an adult, I remember thinking to myself that I wanted to see it up-close. I didn’t know how I was going to do it, as I knew that many of the boats didn’t get that close and driving on it didn’t allow for me to fully appreciate its grandeur.

The Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Twilight or Sunset Cruise seemed to be the answer to my question, though! Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s one of the easiest tours of its kind to fit into even the busiest of schedules.

Simply select the time that works best for you, and head over to the pier down at Fisherman’s Wharf and get ready to board. The Wharf has tons of things to do, so make sure after the tour you enjoy some carnival games, a bowl of clam chowder soup, or just stroll around and enjoy the energy of this special place.

Once boarded, your captain will be there to answer any questions you may have and ensure everyone is safe and comfortable. I found there to be plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the impeccable views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

We passed by notable sites, but the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun set definitely had my attention. Going under the bridge and witnessing the phenomenal construction was truly mind-blowing, and hard to believe I was actually able to partake in this experience.

Our guide regaled us with countless stories of events, including the famous Alcatraz and the prison escapes that happened here. I also feel that this is one of the best San Francisco skyline views, so make sure to get those smartphones out to snap some photos!

FAQs About San Francisco Bay Boat Rides and Tours

What will i see on a san francisco boat ride.

The Golden Gate Bridge : This is the most well known landmark of San Francisco. This suspension bridge spans 1.7 miles across the strait.

Alcatraz Island : This infamous prison has housed some of the most notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. You will see it’s silhouette guard towers and the cell blocks from the water. For a tour, take a ferry to visit for a guided tour.

Angel Island : The largest island in San Francisco Bay. This state park has hiking, biking, camping and tours. You can take a ferry to visit the island for a guided tour.

The Bay Bridge: This bridge connects San Francisco and Oakland and consists of two sections along with a tunnel. You can also drive or bike across it for a close up view.

The Skyline : You will see the stunning San Francisco’s downtown area skyline, with it’s skyscrapers, landmark, and hills. From the water you will see its architecture and its scenic beauty.

What are the most popular San Francisco cruise combos?

There are a variety of combination boat rides:

Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour : With this combination tour you explore the redwood forest of Muir Woods National Monument and the charming town of Sausalito.

Alcatraz with Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour : This ultimate combination tour you see three of the Bay Area’s top attractions in one day. You get a tour of Alcatraz , walk through the giant redwood forest of Muir Woods and check out the Sausalito shops.

How long is a San Francisco boat ride?

Boat rides around San Francisco bay last between one hour for a short tour to three hourse for a dinner cruise.

Are there San Francisco boat rides with dinner?

Yes, there are a variety of boat rides that serve dinner from a casual buffet to a white linen, three course dinner.

What is the best time to go on a boat ride in San Francisco?

San Francisco is of course known for its foggy, cool weather, especially in the summer. The fog will obscure the views of the landmarks and the bay. In addition to the fog, the wind can make the boat ride uncomfortably cold. September and October are the sunniest and warmest months with mostly clear skies and mild temperatures.

Tour Guides

The San Francisco Bay Sail & Jail Boat Cruise & Alcatraz Ticket is our Editor's Choice for the best San Francisco Bay cruise.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 7 best key west snorkeling tours [2024 reviews], the 8 best maui & molokini snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🚁 the 7 best oahu helicopter tours [2024 reviews], top 15 things to do in maui.

• Top SF Attractions
• Fisherman's Wharf
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Lombard Street
• Ghirardelli Square
• Golden Gate Park
• Japanese Tea Garden
• Haight Ashbury
• San Francisco Beaches
• Conservatory of Flowers
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• de Young Art Museum
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• 65 Things to Do in San Francisco
• Ride the Cable Cars
• SF Bay Cruises
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• Best Places to Stay in SF
• Chinese New Year
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• Angel Island
• Santa Cruz Boardwalk
• Whitewater Rafting
• Vintage Plane Rides
• Getting Around SF
• When to Visit SF
• Parking Tips for SF
• SF Homelessness
• Bad SF Travel Advice

By  Karen

Updated August 16, 2023.

The Best 15 Bay Cruises in San Francisco

A local's guide to cruising on san francisco bay.

Going out on the water on one of the San Francisco Bay cruises is the best way to see the stunning beauty of San Francisco Bay!

There's a San Francisco Bay boat tour for just about any taste.

How do I know which are the best San Francisco boat tours?  Having lived in San Francisco for 30 years, I’ve been on a lot of these bay tours.

We also like to take our out-of-town visitors on a San Francisco Bay cruise..always a hit!

I’ve included my own experiences and my insider tips so you can pick the best San Francisco Bay cruise for you.

And I've checked the ratings and reviews so I know other people really enjoyed them, too.

There are so many San Francisco boat tours, but which one to choose?

Here's my list of the what I think are the best ones...

This article contains affiliate links and I get a small commission if you book through them, at no additional cost to you. See disclosure policy . This helps me provide all the free information on the site. Thank you!

Don't want to read the whole article? Book this Champagne Brunch Bay Cruise. Lots of fun, highly rated! 2 hour weekend cruise.

You'll see incredible views of the San Francisco skyline , the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz   Island that you can't get on land.

The San Francisco boat tours sail past Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Ferry Building, and Coit Tower. 

You can often get a close look at the sea lions, and sometimes porpoises and whales, and you'll see the San Francisco waterfront from a very different perspective.

My Top 3 Picks: San Francisco Bay Cruises

Champagne Brunch Cruise

• Unlimited (yes) Mimosas & Sparkling Wine 
• Bountiful brunch
• See both bridges

Bridge to Bridge Bay Cruise

• Sail under both bridges
• Narrated tour
• Skip the line 

Catamaran Cruise

• Sail under the Golden Gate
• Sail around Alcatraz 
• See wildlife

I’ve listed what I think are the top 15 San Francisco Bay cruises so you can choose the one that works for you (plus some bonus extras at the end).

• Premier Champagne Brunch Cruise
• Bridge to Bridge Cruise 
• Catamaran Sailing Cruise
• San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise
• Sunset Catamaran Cruise
• Fishing Boats at Fisherman's Wharf
• Wine Therapy Tour
• Straight to the Gate Access:   Golden Gate Bay Cruise
• San Francisco Bay   Twilight or Sunset Cruise
• America's Cup Day Sailing Adventure on San Francisco Bay
• Premier   Dinner Dance Cruise
• Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco   Escape from the Rock Cruise
• Adventure Boat (RIB) Sightseeing
• Alcatraz Island Tours
• Sausalito Ferry            And some extras ...

Jump to maps showing the typical routes the bay cruises use .

1. San Francisco Premier Brunch Cruise

Rating: 5/5 stars.   2 hours.   See current availability & rates . 

Sail around San Francisco Bay while sipping mimosas and sparkling wine (Champagne, unofficially) and enjoying a sumptuous brunch. Treat yourself to a lovely weekend cruise.

This is a super fun boat ride all around the Bay, sailing under both the Golden Gate and the Bay Bridges, past Alcatraz Island and along the San Francisco waterfront. 

Enjoy great views of the San Francisco city skyline, Chrissy Field, Aquatic Park, and the Palace of Fine Arts, while listening to live music, from the comfort of a classy ship.

Because it goes under both bridges, you also cruise past the Ferry Building and McCovey Cove (Oracle Park baseball).

2. San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Tour

4.5/5 stars.   1.5 hours.  Check prices .

This Straight to the Gate Access bay cruise takes you all around the San Francisco Bay and under both bay bridges , the Golden Gate Bridge and the Oakland Bay Bridge.

Most of the boat tours don't go under the Bay Bridge, so it's an extra treat. This route also gives you a spectacular view of the downtown San Francisco skyline, and sails past the Ferry Building and Oracle Park (baseball). 

They sail close to Alcatraz   Island so you get a good look at it.

There's an popular  audio tour included that tells you about all the landmarks you're passing. Available in multiple languages (16).

Tip: ask for the headphones to use with the audio tour because the boat and wind can be noisy.

You can ride inside (if cold and windy!) or outside for the ocean air. 

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board from the full bar (you can even bring your own food if you want).

It's an open ticket , so if something comes up (rain, fog, schedule change?), you can go on another day. Why buy the ticket in advance? Skip the ticket line!

Provided by the Red & White Fleet . Leaves from Pier 43½ at Fisherman's Wharf. 

    ➡️ Book Bridge to Bridge Cruise

3. San Francisco Catamaran Day Cruise

Rating: 5/5 stars.  1.5 hours.    Check availability and rates .

Sail around San Francisco Bay, under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island, in a catamaran, the Adventure Cat .

Gliding over the water with just the sound of the wind and the gulls, the spectacular views, with only a few other people, is the ultimate SF Zen experience!

You can ride on the outside, or go in a wind-protected area. Limited to 12 guests.

This is a good choice for a real sailing experience without the tilting deck of a traditional sailboat. The catamaran stays level, so it's better for younger children and less able sailors. Better for the queasy stomach, as well; smoother ride than a sailboat.

Snacks and drinks are available onboard, plus an audio tour in 8 languages.

From Pier 39 . 

 ➡️  Book the Catamaran Cruise  

4. San Francisco Bay Sailboat Cruise

Rating: 5/5 stars.  1.5 hours.  Check availability and rates.

One of the prettiest things to see in San Francisco are the white sailboats on the blue waters of the bay. Going out on one of them is even better!

The  San Francisco Sailing Company  runs several bay tours on their sailboats that I highly recommend.

We went out on their 90-minute sailing tour on the Privateer sailboat...what a treat! It's like being on a private yacht, fun and relaxing, with a mellow crew and free wine and beer. 

Better for adults and older children, since you'll need to hang on at times when they're tacking back and forth. 

They also do a two-hour version and a sunset cruise.

See our photos of the cruise, and details about the trip , at our sailboat cruise .

Leaves from Pier 39 .

 ➡️  Book the Sailboat Cruise  

5. SF Bay Sunset Catamaran  Cruise

Rating: 5/5 stars.  1.5 hours. Check availability and rates.

The Catamaran Sunset Cruise is one of the most romantic boat rides in San Francisco, out on the Adventure Cat catamaran.

You get a great view of the San Francisco Bay just as the sun is setting on the city and the bridge, out on the  Sunset Catamaran Cruise .

This cruise is similar to the daytime catamaran cruise, same route, except it includes one free drink.

Sail along the San Francisco waterfront and city skyline, out under the Golden Gate Bridge, past Angel Island, and around Alcatraz Island.

You can purchase snacks and more drinks on board, and listen to the audio tour in 8 languages. Limit of 12 guests.

 ➡️  Book the Sunset Catamaran Cruise  

6. San Francisco Fishing Boats Cruise

 No ratings.  1 hour.  $20.

You can also hop on one of the small fishing boats docked at the marina on the main street of Fisherman's Wharf (Jefferson Street at Jones).

They'll take you out on the Bay for an hour's tour, out under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz.

What's different from the other tours? Fewer people, lively wave action, and salt spray if you sit in the front!

There's live narration from the skipper on board (though it was hard to hear in the front).

No snacks are supplied, but you can bring your own refreshments, including alcohol. Bathroom on board, always good. 

No advance reservations , just sign up at the dock on Jefferson Street for the next trip. They leave about every hour.

We went out on  Chucky's Pride , one of several fishing boats available for the cruises.

I think it's more exciting to sail out under the Golden Gate in a smaller boat than in one of the much larger ferries.

You really feel the waves and the ocean seems mightier, especially just outside the protection of the gate.

The boat goes all the way around Alcatraz, so you see the other side that's not visible on the actual Alcatraz ferry ride.

Also, it's a real bargain - only recently went from $15 to $20, cash only.

7. SF Bay Wine Therapy Cruise

Ratings: 5/5 stars.  1.5 hours.    Check availability and rates.

Combine wine tasting and a sunset bay cruise; very mellow!

This is a family-run business that takes you out for a tour of the Bay and provides a large selection of California wines for you to try.

Good, close views of Alcatraz and passes by the Pier 39 sea lions coming and going.

Friendly atmosphere, quaint and homey boat. Small group, limited to 15.

Leaves from Pier 39

   ➡️  Book the Wine Therapy Cruise  

8.Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Ratings: 4.0/5 stars.  1 hour.   Check availability and rates.

If you only have a short time in San Francisco, or can only do one thing at the Wharf, this is the San Francisco Bay cruise to do!

This is a good basic cruise . A one hour tour of the Bay, along the San Francisco waterfront , out to the bridge, under the Golden Gate , past Alcatraz , and back to Fisherman's Wharf .

The Red and White Fleet  in San Francisco is a family-owned business that started offering this cruise in 1939. The audio tour is available in 16 languages. 

It's particularly good if you have limited time, or young kids that get restless. You can see all the sights of the San Francisco Bay on a quick San Francisco cruise tour, for a very reasonable fee.

Leaves from Pier 43 ½ in Fisherman's Wharf.

There are two ferry services that run these one hour Golden Gate Bridge boat tours: the Red & White Fleet and the Blue & Gold Fleet . They are very similar tour operators and both leave from Fisherman's Wharf with frequent departures.

This Straight to the Gate Access  lets you skip the line and get right to the boat. It's an open ticket good for a year, so you can be flexible using it.

 ➡️  Book the Golden Gate Bay Cruise  

The Alcatraz Ferry doesn't go around the island, except on their night tours.

This is the view from the other side, which you can see on most of the bay cruises, but not from the city.  Like the dark side of the moon?

9. Golden Gate Twilight or Sunset Cruise

Ratings: 4.5/5 stars.  1.5 hours.   Check availability and rates.

The Golden Gate Sunset Cruise in San Francisco goes out on the Red & White Fleet. This is a fun way to get out on the bay and see the city as the sun goes down, with all the lights coming on. 

Amazing views of the San Francisco skyline after dark, very sparkly. The sun setting behind the Golden Gate is something to see!

The Sunset Cruise sails during the summer and the Twilight Cruise sails during the winter. A very romantic way to cruise the bay!

They sail past Alcatraz , Angel Island , the San Francisco waterfront , Sausalito and under the Golden Gate Bridge (very cool at sunset). You can purchase snacks and drinks at the full bar on board. 

Bring your jacket even if it's summer (especially if it's summer, haha); it's cool and windy out on the water.

This San Francisco harbor cruise can sell out, so it's good to book it in advance.

Skip the line tickets.  Go right to the boat. Leaves from Pier 43½ at Fisherman's Wharf.

 ➡️  Book Twilight or Sunset Cruise  

10. America's Cup Sailing Adventure

Ratings: 5/5 stars.  2.5 hours.   Check availability and rates.

This is for the more adventurous sailors! You can go out on a high-speed racing yacht of the type that was used in the America's Cup competition and follow the same route the race took in 2013 when it was held in San Francisco.

The crew lets you help with the sails and the steering if you want (you don't have to, though). I haven't done this trip but it looks exciting.

Limited to 20 people. They say you should have a "moderate physical fitness level" for this Bay Area cruise.

  ➡️  Book America's Cup Sailing Cruise  

If this cruise isn't available, the 90 minute sailboat cruise is a fun substitute.

11.  Premier Dinner Dance Cruise

Ratings: 4.0/5. 3 hours.   Check availability and rates.

City Experiences, a classy company that provides sailing trips on their yachts, has a San Francisco Bay dinner/dance cruise that is a lot of fun.

This may be the most romantic boat ride in San Francisco.

A nighttime extravaganza: a delicious four-course meal, and stunning views of the city and the bridges all lit up. Amazing!

Sail around the bay on a yacht, dancing to a live band or DJ, and savoring a tasty meal.

Enjoy dinner selections like watermelon and feta salad, crab gazpacho soup, chicken cordon-bleu, or maybe glazed salmon, with key lime pot de creme and macaroons, or perhaps berry parfait with Gran Marnier.

I've been on several of their San Francisco evening cruises - a very professional outfit.

My son and I went on this dinner cruise. For all the details on our dinner cruise experience, plus photos and maps, see my page on  our dinner cruise in San Francisco .

It's magical to be out on the water at night with the city lights twinkling in the distance.

The views of the city and the bridges at night were incredible, and the food was great! A fun San Francisco experience.

  ➡️  Book Dinner Dance Cruise  

12. Escape from the Rock

Ratings: 4.0/5.  1.5 hours.    Check availability and rates.

This cruise is a bay tour that focuses on Alcatraz , but it also goes out under the Golden Gate and around the bay . This tour is given by the Blue and Gold Fleet .

The boat goes around Alcatraz Island a couple of times up close while you can listen to the audio narrative about the history of Alcatraz and the prisoners and their escapes.

What is the difference between the Golden Gate Bay Cruise and the Escape from the Rock Cruise? This is similar to the one hour Golden Gate bay cruises in that it does a complete tour of the bay along the same route, but this tour also spends extra time at Alcatraz Island and provides a lot of information about Alcatraz history during the cruise. 

In order to hear the audio, you will need a smart phone with wifi enabled; also, it's best to bring some ear buds or a headset to hear it over the sound of the boat.

Most of the negative reviews were about problems accessing the audio, or misunderstandings about whether the tour goes onto the island. It does not go onto the island.

To see Alcatraz Prison and explore the Island, see my articles on visiting Alcatraz .

 ➡️  Book Escape from the Rock Cruise  

13.  RIB Boat Tour

Ratings: 5/5 stars.  1.5 hours.   Check availability and rates.

This is a newer addition to the boat rides in SF Bay. The RIB boat (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is the more extreme version of the Rocket Boat (which I loved, but it disappeared in 2019):

...90 minutes zooming around SF Bay on an inflatable boat, and a lot wetter (they provide you with rain gear).

This cruise also includes a guided tour of the bay, narrated by the captain. 

Sail by the Ferry Building, Fort Point, the sea lions, and the Presidio.

Go under both the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge, around Alcatraz, and past the SF skyline. Sometimes the whales are out there.

Limited to 12 people. I haven't tried this one yet, but I've seen it out on the Bay and it looks pretty wild and fun! 

 ➡️  Book RIB Boat Tour  

14. Alcatraz Tours

The only way to actually get onto Alcatraz Island.

Alcatraz cruises are in class by themselves. Only one company, City Experiences , at cityexperiences.com, runs ferries out to Alcatraz where visitors can get off the boat and explore the island.

If you have several hours and have any interest in the history of the island prison, take one of the City Experiences tours to Alcatraz.

Not only is the building fascinating to explore, the views of the city and bay are wonderful.

All the other bay cruise companies sail around the island, which is fun, too, but they don't stop at the island to let you off.

The Alcatraz Island tours aren't really bay tours, but on the 15 minute ride out to Alcatraz Island, you get a great view of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge, plus a view of Angel Island nearby.

You don't sail out to the Golden Gate, though. For that you have to take one of the other cruises.

The Alcatraz tours are well-worth doing for their own sake. Probably one of the most interesting things to do in San Francisco.

The Alcatraz Ferry leaves from Pier 33 and only goes to Alcatraz , but getting Alcatraz tickets is the only way to get out to the island and get off the boat there. The ticket includes all the tours on the island. Very cool!

Should you take the day tour or the night tour? To learn more about the Alcatraz Island tours available and the best ways of getting tickets for Alcatraz, plus what to expect out on the Rock, see my article on  Alcatraz tours .

Alcatraz tickets aren't discounted, but you may be able to save a little on tours if you get a combination tour, Alcatraz plus another attraction or activity you're interested in.

Sometimes the combos are a little more than buying them individually, but may be the best chance of getting a ticket when Alcatraz is sold out.

Is Alcatraz sold out for the date you want? Here's how to get those tickets.

The link below will take you to a list I made of the more popular Alcatraz combination tours available.

    ➡️  Check Alcatraz Combo Tours  

15. The Sausalito Ferry

The best ferry ride in San Francisco!  One of the cheaper, but no less beautiful, ways to see San Francisco Bay is to take the ferry across the bay from San Francisco to the seaside town of Sausalito. 

The ride across San Francisco Bay on the Sausalito Ferry was named the second best ferry ride in the world by the society of American Travel Writers in 2009 (second only to the Starr Ferry ride in Hong Kong).

It's a gorgeous ride, with great views of the city skyline, Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. Highly recommended, and a bargain to boot!

Around $28 round trip as of July 2023.

Once in Sausalito, you can explore this charming little town with houses climbing up the steep hills.

Check out the art galleries and shops and have some great seafood at one of their highly-regarded restaurants (e.g. Trident, or Scoma's).

And try the ice cream at Lappert's. Everything is on Bridgeway, the main street in Sausalito.

When you're done, you can catch the next ferry back to town. The ferry landing is right in the town.

Taking the Sausalito Ferry. You can take the Blue and Gold Ferry from Pier 39 at Fisherman's Wharf or the Golden Gate Ferry from the Ferry Building downtown. The ride over is about 30 minutes .

These are big ferries; no reservations are needed . You can buy the tickets on your phone, online, or at the ticket booths at the Ferry Building or the Blue and Gold ticket booth to the left of Pier 39 on the Wharf.

Tip: buy a round trip ticket in San Francisco. There's no ticket booth at the Sausalito ferry terminal, which is basically a parking lot (though you could still buy a return ticket on your phone if you needed to).

Want to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, and take the ferry back?  This is a great way to see the bridge and bay scenery.

See my guide to biking the bridge: how to rent the bikes, what the ride is like, tips for taking the ferry, plus maps of the route and photos of the trip, at biking the bridge .

Should you worry about being seasick on the San Francisco bay cruises?

If you have problems with seasickness, it might encourage you to know that I've never felt sick on one of these San Francisco boat tours. And that is coming from someone who can't even watch the Teacups at Disneyland.

SF Bay Cruises Route Maps

Where do the boats go on the san francisco bay cruises.

There are two basic routes that the San Francisco bay tours use. These aren't exact, but they will give you a good idea of where most of the boat cruises go.

There are two basic varieties of San Francisco boat tours :

• Bay cruises that go to both bridges (the Golden Gate Bridge and the Oakland Bay Bridge) 
• Bay cruises that only travel to the Golden Gate Bridge . 

Both types of cruises do a circuit of the Bay, along the San Francisco waterfront, out under the Golden Gate, around Alcatraz Island, then back to the wharf.

The difference: the two-bridge cruises head south after going around Alcatraz, and sail past the downtown skyline, the Ferry Building, the Bay Bridge and Oracle Park.

The one hour cruises generally just see one bridge, the Golden Gate. Some of the 1.5 hour and longer tours see both bridges. Check each tour description for route details.

Most SF bay cruises leave from Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39 as shown, but some cruises (brunch, special events, & dinner cruises) leave from Pier 3 near the Ferry Building (close to the Bay Bridge).

Route to the Golden Gate only

Route to both Golden Gate and Oakland Bay Bridges

Map of San Francisco Bay Ferry Destinations

SF Ferries leave from the Ferry Building, Pier 33 (Alcatraz Landing), Piers 39, 41, & 43.

Heading to Sausalito, Tiburon, Angel Island, Alcatraz, and the bridges. 

Tips for saving money on SF bay cruises

• The San Francisco City Pass includes a one hour bay cruise with admission to the California Academy of Sciences, plus two more attractions from a list.
• Do a bay cruise combined with a one-day Hop On Hop Off city bus tour. See the city and the bay. Check HOHO City Tour & Bay Cruise for times and availability. $10 off if booked online.

More ideas for special bay cruises

Whale watching tours.

Again, this isn't designed as a tour of San Francisco Bay, but on a whale watching tour you travel across the bay, past Alcatraz and through the Golden Gate, and go further out to sea than the other boat tours.

They sail through the channel outside the Golden Gate, past  Lands End Point ,  Baker Beach , and  China Beach , and out into the open ocean a bit (where the whales are likely to be).

On our whale tour we sailed down the coast a little way, past the  Sutro Baths  and the  Cliff House , to the beginning of  Ocean Beach , which faces the Pacific Ocean, before heading back to San Francisco.

It was a gorgeous, sunny day and we thoroughly enjoyed the trip, even though we never saw any whales. But they said 95% of the time they do see them!

I was worried about being seasick but I was fine. I'd had a really rough whale-watching trip off Monterey years ago and was reluctant to try this one, but I'm glad I did.

That earlier trip went pretty far out to sea to see the enormous Blue Whales; they were truly amazing, but once was enough. An hour straight out to sea in a heaving small boat each way! :(

This tour sticks close to the coast. Also, it was a pretty calm day on SF Bay when we went.

Bring a warm jacket, sun glasses, and a sun hat; it can get chilly out there farther away from land.

So I highly recommend this cruise, whales or no whales!

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien Liberty Ship

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is one of the few surviving liberty ships that delivered supplies to the troops in Europe during World War II.

It's been lovingly maintained over the years and is available for cruises around the bay on special occasions. 

I haven't sailed on it but my friends have and they had a great time. 

See the  Jeremiah O'Brien website  for their scheduled trips.

Exploring the ship...

The ship is also open for  do-it-yourself tours  at the dock. 

I went on board and explored it; very interesting! You can climb up and down through the different decks and look at the exhibits and sample staterooms open to the public. 

The boiler room scene on the film Titanic was filmed on this ship and you can climb down deep into the ship's hold to see the spot.

The Jeremiah O'Brien spent decades at Fishermans's Wharf next to Musée Mécanique at Pier 45 but it's recently moved to new quarters at Pier 35.

One of their more popular cruises is the SF Fleet Week cruise .

See my article on Fleet Week in San Francisco  for information on the event and all the bay cruises available for the air show. A boat on the bay is a great spot to watch the Blue Angels!

Rent a sailboat or a yacht (and crew)

Want a Private Cruise?

Through the  SAILO company , you can rent a sailboat or yacht and sail the bay with a group of friends or family.

There's a big selection of sizes and prices of boats to rent. Nice looking boats, too. Not as expensive as you might think, based on the number of guests splitting the cost.

Quite a range, for example from $960 per day for 6 people, up to huge boats holding 350 guests for a lot more. They provide the captain and necessary crew.

Take a look at all the boats  they have available for San Francisco Bay; pretty cool.

They are offering a 7% discount, now until August 2024.

Special Event SF Bay Cruises

As you might guess, there are popular San Francisco bay cruises for special events, like Christmas, New Year's, Mother's Day, Father's Day, etc.

They come and go as the year goes by. The City Experiences company does a lot of them. 

One big event with a number of cruises is Fleet Week in San Francisco .

This is a great way to watch the Blue Angels perform, right out on the bay, where the boat stops for the show.

I have an article about Fleet Week in San Francisco which includes cruise recommendations. These book up so plan ahead if you want to do one of these. 

Parking for the Bay Cruises

Where to park for the San Francisco bay cruises and boat tours?

Parking, yes. Always an issue in San Francisco!

For the cruises that leave from Fisherman's Wharf (Piers 41, 43 ½ & Pier 39) as well as Alcatraz cruises (pier 33), I recommend using Spot Hero .

There are a number of parking garages and lots around the Fisherman's Wharf area, but they can be very expensive and sometimes full.

Rather than driving around trying to find a spot in Fisherman's Wharf (not fun), the stress-free and usually much cheaper way is to book a spot in advance through Spot Hero.

That's what I use when I'm trying to park in the more congested areas of San Francisco.

Check with Spot Hero to see what's available and book parking.

The City Experiences cruises (brunch, dinner, and special events) leave from Pier 3 near the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street. There's a parking lot at Pier 3 that they make available for cruises leaving from there.

It's pretty reasonable ($10 when we went) and staffed, so people are around, therefore less likely for break-ins. It's not reserved, but you have a good chance of getting a spot if you get there a bit early. We parked there for our dinner cruise.

Advice for everyone parking in San Francisco: leave nothing of value and nothing visible in the car! Sorry.

San Francisco Bay Cruises: FAQ

What is the best time of day for a San Francisco bay cruise?

During the summer months, June, July and August, the San Francisco fog tends to roll in mid afternoon, though it's not always predictable.

So the best time to take a San Francisco boat tour during the summer would be in the morning or early afternoon, or later in the early evening, when the fog often rolls out again.

In the winter months , it's hit or miss with rainy days interspersed with sunny ones. It generally warms up a bit in the afternoon. There does tend to be a lot less fog in winter.

What's the best time of year to do a San Francisco bay tour?

The best time of year to go on a bay cruise in San Francisco is during September or October. Those are our months of great weather, warm and sunny, and the fog and rain are pretty much absent. But it's weather, so there's no guarantee.

Which San Francisco bay cruises go past Alcatraz Island?

Just about all the San Francisco boat tours sail past Alcatraz Island. Read the description to be sure, but it would be hard to find one that doesn't.

What is the difference between the Golden Gate Bay Cruise and the Escape from the Rock Tour?

Both tours sail past the San Francisco waterfront, go out under the Golden Gate Bridge and then sail around Alcatraz Island.

The difference between the tours is that the Escape from the Rock Tour also circles Alcatraz a couple of times while providing lots of information on the history of Alcatraz Island and the prison, and stories about the prisoner escapes. 

Are there bathrooms on the San Francisco boat cruises? Food and drink?

Yes, all the boats on the San Francisco bay cruises have bathrooms, even the small fishing boats!

And most of them, except the fishing boats, have food and refreshments on board available to purchase. The Privateer sailboat has beer and wine, but no food.

How long is the ferry ride from San Francisco to Sausalito?

The ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito takes about 30 minutes.

How long is the bay cruise in San Francisco? 

The Golden Gate bay cruise in San Francisco is one hour.

Both the Red and White Fleet and the Blue and Gold Fleet in San Francisco do one hour cruises of the bay.

The shortest San Francisco bay cruises are one hour, but many SF bay tours are 1.5 hours, and others are 2-3 hours.

What should you wear on a San Francisco bay cruise?

The most important thing to wear on a SF bay cruise or boat tour is layers!

Even on a warm, sunny day in San Francisco, it can be windy and chilly out on the water. Bring a jacket onboard even if you don't need it on shore.

Also, the fog can roll in while you're out there and it can be downright cold!

Will you get seasick on a San Francisco bay cruise?

Some get seasick no matter what, but generally, it's not rolling enough on the bay for most people to get sick. Out on the open ocean is another matter.

I've been on many of the bay cruises and I've never felt seasick. 

What is across the bay from San Francisco?

The main cities and towns across the bay from San Francisco are Sausalito and Tiburon in the North Bay (in Marin County), and Vallejo, Berkeley, Oakland, and Alameda in the East Bay.

Are there great white sharks in San Francisco Bay?

Yes, and no. Yes, they do come into San Francisco Bay on rare occasions, but most of the time they stay out of the bay. Great whites are not considered a danger in San Francisco Bay. But there are 11 other species of sharks living in the bay.

At certain times of year (mainly in October), there are lots of great white sharks swimming up and down the coast past San Francisco.

Their hunting ground stretches from Half Moon Bay, south of SF, up to Stinson Beach in Marin County, and out to the Farallon Islands, 30 miles straight west of SF.

This area is sometimes called the Red Triangle (!) because of the frequency of great white shark attacks there.

Since the waters are too cold and rough for most swimmers, it's the surfers and divers that are usually the targets. Scientists suspect it's the wetsuits worn year round that cause the sharks to occasionally mistake humans for their usual prey, the sea lions and harbor seals.

Related Articles

Read about our experience on the dinner dance cruise .

Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal while sailing past spectacular views.

Here's our experience on the Privateer sailboat cruise on the bay.

The perfect way to see San Francisco Bay with a glass of wine!

Take the Alcatraz ferry over to the island where you can explore the prison and the rest of the grounds. Audio tour and guided tours included in the ticket. See all my info on  tours, booking and best way to get tickets.

Alcatraz sold out? Never fear. See my tips on getting those elusive Alcatraz tickets at last-minute Alcatraz tickets .

More Attractions in San Francisco:

What if it's foggy in San Francisco?

Heading for the Golden Gate Bridge...

Why is San Francisco so cold? Check out my article on San Francisco weather .

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• Ferry service to Sausalito, as well as cruise and sightseeing tickets can be purchased directly from this site and at the Box Office at PIER 39. Tickets to Harbor Bay, Main Street Alameda, Oakland, Richmond, Seaplane Lagoon, South San Francisco, Vallejo, Oracle Park and Chase Center can also be accessed on this site. General information is also available by calling 415-705-8200.
• Multi-language audio tours on the San Francisco Bay Cruise and Escape From the Rock Cruise around Alcatraz Island, are available in nine languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, French, Japanese, Korean, German & Taiwanese. Please bring your Wi-Fi enabled device to access the audio tour.
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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

Labor Day Weekend 2024- Saturday Afternoon Sail on San Francisco Bay

Labor Day Weekend 2024- Saturday Sunset Sail on San Francisco Bay

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!

San Francisco Bay Adventures

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!

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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.

San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise

For a limited time, all San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruises have a Buy One, Get One (BOGO) offer for the bar! Double the delight as you sip and savor the beauty of the San Francisco Bay while toasting to memorable moments.

Our 90 minute san francisco bridge to bridge cruise gives you unbeatable views of the san francisco skyline and world famous san francisco – oakland bay bridge, as well as all the most famous sights on san francisco bay and a trip under the iconic golden gate bridge. .

Sail under both the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge in one spectacular 90 minute cruise along San Francisco's dramatic waterfront, accompanied by our award winning audio narration, available in 16 languages.

Experience San Francisco's stunning landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Coit Tower, the San Francisco Ferry Building, Transamerica Pyramid, Salesforce Tower, Palace of Fine Arts and more. Our multilingual audio tour includes details about the building of both bridges, the geology of San Francisco Bay and the earthquakes that occasionally shake San Francisco. Our  Bridge to Bridge Cruise also gives you the opportunity to learn about our city's unique natural history, architecture and Native American culture.  And the views aren't bad, either!

A Long History of San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruises:

Red and White Fleet originally launched its sightseeing bay cruises of San Francisco in 1939, when it was awarded the contract for offering tours of the newly-built Golden Gate and Bay Bridges for the Golden Gate International Exposition.  Ever since, our Red and White cruises have sailed the waters of San Francisco Bay. For the 80th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, we reintroduced our original "Bridge to Bridge Cruise" concept to visitors from around the world, and we hope you sincerely enjoy your time aboard.

Details about the Bridge to Bridge Cruise:

Duration: 90-minutes

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 prio r to departure. Boarding on first-come, first-serve basis.

Adult (18+): $48.00

Youth (5-17): $36.00

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

Bridge to Bridge Route Map - 90 Minutes 

7 Best San Francisco Boat Tours and Bay Cruises by a local (2024)

Looking for the best San Francisco boat tours or bay cruises on your trip to San Francisco?

As a San Francisco local, I can assure you that the best views of San Francisco cannot be seen from the pier. The best views can only be seen by getting on a boat into the bay!

I highly recommend that you should take a cruise on your San Francisco visit and experience epic views of the San Francisco Bay, city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, Bay Bridge, and more!

Did you know that most San Francisco Bay cruises go under the famous Golden Gate Bridge? That is an awesome experience you must have!

My Top 3 Picks: Best Boat Tours in San Francisco Bay

Best Sunset Cruise

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise ✔️ Stylish boat, small group ✔️ Complimentary drink ✔️ Sunset sail

Best Day Sightseeing Cruise

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise ✔️ Stylish boat, small group ✔️Afternoon times

Best Combo Tour

Alcatraz Island with San Francisco Bay Cruise ✔️ Sightseeing cruise and Alcatraz Island combo ✔️ Includes Alcatraz admission

7 Best San Francisco Boat Tours and Bay Cruises

There are various types of boat cruises you can take in San Francisco. They mostly differ in the boat type and the cruise duration.

There are smooth sailing and stylish catamaran boats (my favorite!), bigger double-decker boats, sailboats, and private yachts.

Some cruises offer a combo with a visit to Alcatraz Island to tour the prison, some offer food and drinks like brunch or dinner cruises, while some are just sightseeing cruises.

Below are the best cruise offerings in different categories selected after careful reviews and my personal experiences, having lived in San Francisco for 20+ years.

All of them are great, and you can pick one based on your group’s interests. You can pick a combo tour with Alcatraz, a sunset cruise, a brunch cruise, a dinner cruise, or just a day sightseeing cruise.

1. San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

⭐ Ratings: 5 / 5 | Duration: 1.5 hours | Book Now

Taking a San Francisco Bay Cruise at sunset on a catamaran boat is one of the best boat tours in San Francisco and my personal favorite.

This cruise is on a stylish 55 or 65 feet catamaran boat known for its smooth gliding on ocean waters.

The 1.5 hour long cruise sails at twilight from Pier 39 near the Sea Lions dock. The sea lions are hard to miss here; they are so loud!

The cruise takes you along the picturesque San Francisco Bay, and you can see the city skyline slowly lighting up. You will see several landmarks in the distance, such as Telegraph Hill, Aquatic Pier, and Ghirardelli Square.

The soft hues of the setting sun cast a warm glow on the city’s skyline, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the journey.

The cruise passes iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, giving you plenty of photo opportunities with sunset tones illuminating the backdrop.

This sunset cruise in San Francisco is especially great for couples looking for a romantic evening. My husband and I like to sit on the net in the front and admire the sunset hues.

I recommend taking the Sunset Bay cruise on the first day in the city to feel excited about your San Francisco trip or the last evening of your trip as a perfect ending to a great visit!

This was an INCREDIBLE experience… the crew was so friendly, fun and accommodating and it was the perfect way to celebrate our first evening in San Francisco! Such beautiful views, fun atmosphere . I would do this trip 50 times over again!!! Julia – ( See more reviews )

Additional Info:

• Departs from Pier 39.
• Departure times around sunset may vary depending on the season.
• Includes one complimentary drink (alcoholic/non-alcoholic offered).
• More drinks and snacks are available to purchase onboard.
• The cruise goes under the Golden Gate Bridge and near Alcatraz Island.
• Manual Wheelchair and stroller accessible.
• Great for couples, special occasions, solo travelers, friends group

➡ Check rates and availability for San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

2. San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

This is a great sailing cruise on the San Francisco Bay on a stylish Catamaran Boat, typically 55 or 65 feet long, and very smooth gliders on ocean waters.

Enjoy a 1.5-hour sailing experience with epic views of the San Francisco skyline and San Francisco Bay. The cruise goes under the Golden Gate Bridge and near Alcatraz Island for excellent photo ops.

This is the same cruise as the Sunset Catamaran Bay Cruise above, except this is during the day and does not include a complimentary drink.

This is a great family-friendly cruise; kids will love sitting on the net in front of the boat! My kids, when little, used to think they would be able to catch fish in those nets!

One of the favorite things we did in San Francisco! Captain and crew were awesome, super friendly and genuine. Sailing the bay was a nice break from walking all over and the views from the water were beautiful. Benjamin – ( See more reviews )

• Departure times are in the afternoon.
• Drinks and snacks are available to purchase onboard.
• Great for families, couples, solo travelers, friends group

➡ Check rates and availability for San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

3. Alcatraz Island with San Francisco Bay Cruise

⭐ Ratings: 4 / 5 | Duration: 2 to 4 hours | Book Now

Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island are the two most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco.

This combo tour is my top pick for visitors to San Francisco who want to see Alcatraz, as it combines both Alcatraz Island and Bay Cruise!

This is my favorite tour to take visiting friends and family who wish to see the famous Alcatraz Island, and I also get to show off our beautiful San Francisco Bay views!

The cruise departs from Pier 33, near Pier 39, which is easy to get to using Uber or public transport.

As your cruise departs, you will see epic views of Pier 39 and sea lions, Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront, Aquatic Park and Pier, and the San Francisco skyline, including the Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower.

The cruise goes up to and under the Golden Gate Bridge, a unique experience and a great photo opportunity.

You will disembark at Alcatraz Island, where you can listen to the free audio tour as you explore the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary and Prison grounds.

You can tour Alcatraz Island at your own pace and then board any return ferry to Pier 33, which is included in this tour. The return ferry usually arrives every 30 minutes.

Note: These are two separate tours – one to Alcatraz Island and the other is a San Francisco Bay Tour.

My husband and I really enjoyed our ferry ride and time on Alcatraz! Great that you stay as long as needed and take the next ferry. Ranger info was very helpful and the audio tour very informative.. Charles – ( See more reviews )

• Departs from Pier 33.
• Several departure times each day.
• Includes Round trip ferry to Alcatraz Island.
• Includes admission fee to Alcatraz Island ($45 value).
• The cruise goes under the Golden Gate Bridge and has scenic Bay Views.
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible.
• Kids 4 years and younger are free.

➡ Check rates and availability for Alcatraz Island with San Francisco Bay Cruise

4. One-hour San Francisco Bay Cruise

⭐ Ratings: 4.5 / 5 | Duration: 1 hour | Book Now

This compact one-hour San Francisco Bay Cruise is ideal for anyone with limited time in the city.

The cruise departs from Pier 41 (next to Pier 39) and takes you on a scenic boat ride to and under the Golden Gate Bridge. Later, it circles Alcatraz Island to give you a peak at the Alcatraz grounds and prison buildings.

The boat is a double-decker boat and has enough room to move around. It also has a cafe where you can purchase drinks, coffee, and snacks. The lower level has an inside sitting area in case it is a windy day, and the upper deck has bench-style seating.

I usually recommend this cruise to family and friends who only have a day or two in San Francisco, as the cruise is quick and scenic and still has the same epic views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

It was a wonderful time! Easy boarding, well thought out and informational tour. Dazzling views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the eastern edge of the city. Stephanie – ( See more reviews )

• Departs from Pier 41.
• The cruise goes under the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz Island, and has scenic Bay Views.

➡ Check rates and availability for One-hour San Francisco Bay Cruise

5. San Francisco Bay Premier Brunch Cruise

⭐ Ratings: 5 / 5 | Duration: 2 hours | Book Now

Experience a delightful weekend brunch cruise on San Francisco Bay . This is a great cruise to celebrate special occasions with family and friends or just a great way to spend a weekend morning in your San Francisco visit.

Indulge in a brunch buffet, unlimited mimosas, and sparkling champagne as you glide across the water.

Enjoy the lively onboard music as you savor your brunch and take in the sights.

Sail beneath the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, catch glimpses of Alcatraz Island and Angel Island, the towns of Sausalito and Tiburon, and admire the San Francisco skyline from the deck.

The price justifies the buffet and bottomless mimosas and a smooth ride. I definitely recommend this to anyone visiting San Francisco. You get a close up to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island. It was very classy with piano playing and the food was very good!! The waitresses were very attentive and always made sure your glass was full! MArisol – ( See more reviews )

• Includes Brunch Buffet with coffee/tea
• Complimentary mimosas and champagne
• Departs from Pier 3 near the Ferry Building on Embarcadero.
• Available on weekend mornings (Saturday, Sunday, and select Fridays)
• Wheelchair accessible.

➡ Check rates and availability for San Francisco Bay Premier Brunch Cruise

6. San Francisco Premier Dinner Dance Cruise

⭐ Ratings: 4 / 5 | Duration: 3 hours | Book Now

Enjoy a delightful evening on the San Francisco Bay with a dinner cruise . Great way to celebrate or just have a great time with friends or family with gourmet dinner, dancing, and epic views of the San Francisco Bay.

Indulge in a delectable 3-course gourmet meal prepared onboard using fresh, local ingredients. This is not a buffet-style dinner, but plated for you and served at your table.

There are menu upgrade options and alcoholic drinks and cocktails are available to purchase.

After dinner, dance to the tunes of the DJ or step out onto the exterior deck to marvel at the nighttime views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline.

The Dinner cruise was amazing. From the food to the DJ and seeing the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Tyrone – ( See more reviews )

• 3-course plated gourmet dinner prepared on board with fresh local ingredients.
• Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.
• Live Music and dance floor.
• Available on weekends and select weekdays.

➡ Check rates and availability for San Francisco Premier Dinner Dance Cruise

7. Private Sailboat Charter in San Francisco Bay

Would you like a less crowded SF Bay cruise experience with just your group? Then this private sailboat charter tour is for you!

This highly-rated tour comes with a sailboat and an experienced captain to steer the boat as per your itinerary. This tour is great for a group of family and friends as the tour allows 6 people for a flat rate.

Sail past the Fisherman’s Wharf, Under the Golden Gate Bridge, near the towns of Sausalito and Tiburon, and around Alcatraz and Angel Islands. You can customize your sailing itinerary and which places you want to pass by along the bay.

The captain will provide a picture of your group with the boat as a souvenir!

Loved every minute of our 2 hour private sail on San Francisco Bay with Captain John on his beautiful boat. What an experience! Well worth what we paid for a private sail. The weather was glorious and Captain John was proficient, professional and a wealth of knowledge re the San Francisco area. We sailed over to Sausalito and back. Highly recommend this tour. Thank you Captain John for making possible a beautiful family experience we will cherish always. Catanach – ( See more reviews )

• Private sailboat with a skilled captain just for your group.
• Departs from near Fisherman’s Wharf.
• You can customize your sailing itinerary.
• Not Wheelchair accessible.
• Kids 4 years and younger are not allowed.

➡ Check rates and availability for Private Sailboat Charter in San Francisco Bay

Tips for taking a boat ride in San Francisco

Be prepared for your boat ride on the Bay, and you will have a great time! Below are some tips to help you prepare for your cruise:

FAQs about boat tours in San Francisco

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about taking a San Francisco boat tour:

Which season is best for taking a boat tour in San Francisco?

Ideally, Fall is the best season for a bay cruise in San Francisco as the weather is warmer and the winds are fewer.

Summer is also good due to the longer days, but it can be windy by the bay. This is also the most crowded season for boat rides.

Winter can be rainy, and some of these cruises do not operate in the winter except during the holiday season.

Spring season is a wild card each year and depends on how rainy the season will be.

How long is the Bay Cruise in San Francisco?

The length of the cruise varies based on the type of cruise and can be anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. Sightseeing cruises are typically 1 to 1.5 hours long, while cruises with meals can be two to three hours in duration.

How much does a San Francisco Bay Cruise cost?

The cost of a San Francisco boat tour varies anywhere between $40 to $200 depending on the type of the boat and what the cruise offers. Simple 1-hour sightseeing cruises are cheaper, but cruises with meals like brunch or dinner are more expensive. Private boat charters can be up to $600-800.

Where to stay in San Francisco

Fisherman’s Wharf area is a great place for first-time visitors to stay in San Franciso. It is within walking distance of most tourist attractions like Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39, Lombard Street, Cable Car, and more.

From Fisherman’s Wharf, you can walk to Pier 39 and 41, from which most of the cruises in this list depart. For cruises that depart from Piers 3 and 33, you can reach them by a short Uber ride.

Hotel Fairmont Heritage Place : A luxury hotel in Ghirardelli Square with stunning ocean views.

San Francisco Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf :: A mid-range hotel within walking distance of Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39.

Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf : A conveniently located mid-range hotel in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf.

More San Francisco activities for your trip

San Francisco has a lot of iconic landmarks and attractions that should not be missed while visiting San Francisco . You will see some of these sights from the boat ride, but make sure to visit them up close as well.

Golden Gate Bridge: One of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views and a great spot for photography. You can explore it by walking or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge . Golden Gate Bridge should be on your itinerary no matter how many days you have in San Francisco .

Alcatraz Island: A popular attraction known for its historic prison, offering guided tours that provide insight into the island’s intriguing past.

Fisherman’s Wharf: A lively waterfront filled with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, street performers, and the famous Pier 39, known for its sea lions.

Chinatown: One of the largest Chinatowns in the US, featuring vibrant streets, authentic cuisine, unique shops, and cultural landmarks.

Cable Cars: A charming and historic mode of transportation, cable cars offer an enjoyable ride through the city’s hilly streets.

Golden Gate Park: A vast urban park offering various attractions, including the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences, and the Conservatory of Flowers.

Haight-Ashbury : Known as the birthplace of the hippie counterculture, this neighborhood offers a bohemian atmosphere and plenty of things to do in Haight Ashbury , like vintage shops, colorful murals, and eclectic cafes.

Alamo Square and The Painted Ladies: A row of Victorian houses which are famous for their colorful facades, providing a picturesque view of classic San Francisco architecture. Alamo Square is the urban park from where you can admire them.

If you are staying for a few days or 1 week in San Francisco , you should plan to explore some of these landmarks and neighborhoods.

Alternatively, if you are short on time and only have one or two days in San Francisco , I highly recommend taking a San Francisco city tour , as it can cover a lot more than you can explore on your own.

➡ Check rates and availability for this highly-rated small group tour which includes San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Sausalito with an option to add Alcatraz Island visit.

Final Takeaways: Best San Francisco Bay Cruises for your visit

No visit to San Francisco is complete without taking a boat cruise in the San Francisco Bay!

I hope you are able to find a boat tour from this list that meets your needs and enjoys spectacular views of San Francisco Bay and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge.

If you can’t decide, I recommend going with San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise . The city looks amazing at sunset from this luxury catamaran boat.

Below is a summary of the top 7 San Franciso water tours:

• San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise – Best 1.5-hour sunset tour on a catamaran boat
• San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise – 1.5-hour Day tour on a catamaran sailboat
• Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise – 2 to 4 hours Combo tour of Bay Cruise and visit to Alcatraz.
• One-hour San Francisco Bay Cruise – 1-hour budget-friendly scenic bay cruise
• San Francisco Premier Brunch Cruise – 2-hour brunch cruise (weekends only)
• San Francisco Premier Dinner Dance Cruise – 3-hour dinner and dance cruise
• 2 Hours Private Sailboat Charter in San Francisco Bay – Private sailboat tour for your group of up to 6 people.

Related Posts

Check out my other articles about visiting San Francisco:

How to spend one day in San Francisco

Best 3 days in San Francisco itinerary

Epic 7 days in San Francisco itinerary (with options for 10 days)

How many days in San Francisco and what to do on your visit

San Francisco to Muir Woods: Ways to get there and what to do

Top 21 things to do and see in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco

Anu Agarwal is the founder and author of vacation travel blog Destination Checkoff. Anu, a Northern California resident, and a regular nine-to-fiver, loves to vacation with her family to destinations all over the world. She is obsessed with doing endless research for her trips. She has traveled to several destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. With her blog, Anu is excited to share her destination itineraries and vacation travel guides and help you check those dream destinations off your bucket list!

12 Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen Mexico in 2024

Trying to find the best boat tours in Playa del Carmen Mexico? This is the perfect guide for you!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve had the chance to try out many of the boat tours in the area.

In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations so you’ll be ready to soak up the sun and spend an unforgettable day exploring the Caribbean Sea off the coast of Playa del Carmen.

⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?

The best boat tour in Playa del Carmen is this Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres tour with more than 440 5-star reviews!

Without further ado, let’s review the best boat tours in Playa del Carmen , including each itinerary, tour information, booking details, and everything else you need to know.

Ready to find out the best Playa del Carmen boat tour for you? Let’s get started!

Top 3 Picks: Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling

✅ Uninhabited tropical island ✅ All-inclusive

Isla Mujeres Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel

✅ Lunch and Open Bar ✅ Roundtrip Transportation

Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour

✅ Puerto Aventuras ✅ Snorkeling at Inah Reef

Best Boat Tours in Playa del Carmen

These are the best boat tours Playa del Carmen has to offer:

⚠️ Before we begin, it’s important to know that there is not a marina in Playa del Carmen . Boat tours will usually depart from these nearby towns:

• Puerto Aventuras
• Isla Mujeres

Keep in mind this will require a bit of extra travel time (30 min—1 hour)–but it’s definitely worth it as the water and snorkeling are much better in these areas!

1. Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling, Breakfast and Lunch

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 440 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 8 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cancun
• 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? Yes
• 🎟 HOW TO BOOK: Check prices and availability here →

This Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres boat trip from Playa del Carmen is the best boat tour in Playa del Carmen with over 440 5-star reviews!

On this full-day tour, you’ll get to explore two incredibly beautiful tropical islands–Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. Both are must-do activities in the Riviera Maya !

Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun known for its beautiful beaches like Playa Norte and its striking turquoise water.

But the real star of the show is Isla Contoy , an uninhabited island that has the most jaw-dropping beach you’ll ever see!

Best part of our trip!! The island is paradise. We saw a reef shark, huge turtles, starfish and more. 3 hours on Isla Contoy was perfect, lunch was also made for us on the island which was amazing! Great trip, great staff.. 10/10 would do it all again –Chante ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Trust me, I’ve seen a lot of pretty beaches in Riviera Maya and Isla Contoy is simply THE best there is!

The boat tour whisks you to the best snorkeling spots off Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy. You’ll also be able to hop off the boat to explore the islands, including souvenir shopping in Isla Mujeres or lounging on the beach at Isla Contoy.

Plus, round-trip transportation with hotel pickup, meals, and equipment are all included so it’s a hassle-free experience.

What’s included in the Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling, Breakfast and Lunch :

• Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum areas
• Boat ride to Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy
• Breakfast at the pier
• Guided reef snorkel tour at Isla Contoy National Park
• Several hours at Isla Contoy
• Free time on Isla Mujeres
• Freshly prepared lunch
• Water, soft drinks, and beer
• Snorkel gear
• Professional crew

2. Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel: Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 1,870 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 5 hours and 30 minutes
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Playa Mujeres

Catamaran tours are one of the best ways to explore the warm waters around the Riviera Maya, and this is one of the best catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen .

The Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel Tour to Isla Mujeres begins right at the front door of your hotel. From there, you’ll embark on a calm and soothing sail from the coast to Isla Mujeres.

Before you reach the charming island, you’ll stop for a quick snorkel, where you can swim and admire the tropical fish and other marine life.

Amazing excursion! You get to snorkel, swim, and explore Isla Mujeres. Not to mention open bar and lunch included! They also take amazinngggg pictures for you. Definitely recommend –Capri C. ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

Once at Isla Mujeres, you can choose between a guided tour of the island or free time to discover the many things to do in Isla Mujeres on your own.

This half-day tour is the perfect way to explore Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen , with an open bar and a gourmet lunch on board the catamaran.

And with round-trip transportation and plenty of free time to explore the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean and the lively streets of Isla Mujeres, you’ll have the best time.

What’s included in the Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel. Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres :

• Boat ride to Isla Mujeres
• Break to snorkel

3. Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 480 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 4 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Puerto Aventuras

This Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran Tour is the perfect day trip from Playa del Carmen that includes ample time to explore the waters at Inah Reef (known as one of the best reefs near Playa del Carmen).

The Riviera Maya is right on the Mesoamerican Reef , the second-largest reef in the world–making this one of the best Playa del Carmen snorkeling tours .

During the cruise, you can admire the scenery, including sailing by the luxury resorts on shore, the lush and tropical jungles, isolated beaches, and the Caribbean Sea.

This was one of my favorite experiences in Mexico so far! The tour guide was fun, and of course, the water was amazing. I had fun snorkeling with a great group of people. Lunch was very good, and the margaritas were delicious! Fabulous! –Rachel ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

While the highlight of this tour is the incredible views and overall experience of sailing along the Caribbean Sea, you can’t miss the snorkeling.

You’ll swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and other ocean dwellers in their natural habitat. And if that’s not your thing, you can try paddle boarding in the calm waters.

What’s included in the Riviera Maya Luxury Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour :

• Catamaran snorkel cruise
• Guided reef snorkel tour Inah Reef
• Paddleboards

4. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya with Light Dinner and Open Bar

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 290 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 2 hours

What better way to experience the beautiful Caribbean than with a Playa del Carmen sunset boat tour? 

This Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise is definitely one of the best luxury boat tours in Playa del Carmen and the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful Riviera Maya sunset!

Amazing experience!! The drinks were great and kept coming, the staff was all amazing, and we had an amazing time! 10/10 recommend. We had so much fun and met new friends! –Kortnee ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

On the 2-hour catamaran cruise, you’ll go gliding along the coast of the Riviera Maya where you’ll get to enjoy a perfect view of the sunset behind the jungle backdrop.

Plus, it includes a light snack with a tropical fruit plate, cheese, meat platter, and an open bar–setting the perfect ambiance to meet new people or enjoy a romantic evening.

What’s included in the Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya :

• Pickup and dropoff from your hotel in the Riviera Maya
• Catamaran cruise along the coast
• Light snacks

🌅 Looking for a private sunset sailing? Read about my Riviera Maya sunset sailing experience for all the details!

5. El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 190 5-star reviews)
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel
• 🚐 HOTEL PICKUP INCLUDED? No

This El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club tour is the perfect Playa del Carmen boat tour for snorkeling lovers and a great way to see the island of Cozumel.

On this boat tour from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, you’ll get to stop at three of the best snorkeling coral reefs in Cozumel: Palancar, Columbia, and El Cielo.

The real highlight is El Cielo, which means “Heaven” in Spanish, and what you’ll find at this dreamy snorkeling spot that can only be accessed by boat.

Visiting El Cielo in Cozumel is one of my favorite things to do in Cozumel because the water is so clear and you’ll get to snorkel with giant starfish!

This was our absolute favorite excursion. The crew was friendly, professional, and fun. The snorkeling areas were in the bluest, clearest, water I’ve ever seen in my life. The sea life was beautiful. There was a photographer on board that took amazing underwater photos that we will always treasure. The chef cut up all of the fruits & veggies for fresh guacamole, pico, and ceviche during our beach stop. It truly was a PERFECT day!!! –Donald C. ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

And in addition, you’ll get to sail around the Caribbean on a catamaran and take a dip in the water, all while sipping a cold margarita and snacking on delicious, freshly-made ceviche. 

And to top it off, you’ll get to stop at a beach club on Cozumel for more relaxation and fun in the sun.

Note this tour departs from Cozumel so you’ll need to get from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel on your own.  But don’t worry, taking the ferry is very easy!

What’s included in the El Cielo Reef by Catamaran with Beach Club :

• Meetup at Marina Fonatur Cozumel
• Guided reef snorkel at Palancar, Columbia, and El Cielo
• Freshly prepared ceviche
• Beach club access

6. 2 Hour Sunset Charter – 47′ Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya

• ⭐️ RATING : 5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 100 5-star reviews)

If you want to go all-out with a luxurious boat of your own, this 2-Hour Sunset – 47’ Azimut yacht is a quick trip that’s a bit more affordable.

It’s one of the best yacht rentals in Playa del Carmen , perfect for groups of friends, Mexico bachelorette parties , or couples.

This Playa del Carmen boat rental offers a complete VIP experience, including an optional Inha Reef snorkeling, paddleboarding around the open seas, complimentary cocktails, and a karaoke machine to round out the party.

This was an amazing option! We were celebrating our 29th, so it was a great time. Clean boat, great amenities, loudspeaker system with Bluetooth to connect, accommodating staff. Good drinks! They took pics for us, kept the drinks coming, 2 rooms and 2 bathrooms on board. –Joiya ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

And one of the best things about private luxury yachts is the personalized tour options. You can choose from a set list of water activities based on what you’re most interested in. 

Don’t like snorkeling? That’s fine–just sunbathe on the deck. Want some more activity? Go for a quick paddle board trip from the yacht.

What’s included in the 2 Hour Sunset – 47′ Azimut, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya :

• Meetup at Puerto Aventuras
• Private tours with the crew for a 2-hour cruise
• Guided snorkel at Inha Reef
• Snacks and lunch
• Karaoke machine
• Bluetooth sound system

7. El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience

• 🕘 DURATION : 5 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Cozumel downtown ferry pier

This El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience is another fun way to experience El Cielo and snorkeling in Cozumel .

The Playa del Carmen booze cruise catamaran includes a tour around the island on a massive 65-foot catamaran–with open bar included. 

You can hop in the water and swim with all the tropical fish, beautiful coral reef formations, and maybe even sea turtles!

From the beginning till the end, this adventure was simply amazing. The crew was very attentive, detail oriented and made sure Everyone was safe and taken care of. The reef was breathtaking, and all stops had its perk. I didn’t want it to end. The sunset from the catamaran was the icing on the cake. This is a MUST do trip. Kudos to this company and the crew. –Zsuzsa ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

First, you’ll stop at Palancar Reef and then spend time at El Cielo. All the while, you can enjoy unlimited drinks and snacks onboard the boat and beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

This boat tour doesn’t start until the afternoon and returns after sunset. So, you don’t have to worry about getting up early like many other guided boat tours in Playa del Carmen. 

It also picks you up at the Cozumel ferry pier, which is right in the center of San Miguel de Cozumel .

What’s included in the El Cielo, Palancar Snorkel & Beach Party Experience :

• Meetup at the ferry pier in Cozumel
• Catamaran boat tour to Palancar and El Cielo
• Guided reef snorkel

8. Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 135 5-star reviews)

This Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise is an excellent half-day tour around the Caribbean, and a great way to spend an afternoon in Playa del Carmen.

The tour is on a large catamaran, which is never over 50% capacity, so there’s plenty of space for everyone. 

You can enjoy snorkeling at a nearby reef, a beautiful cruise, and even a waterslide. The captain also drags two fishing poles along the reef, so you can try out some fishing if you’re interested.

We had great fun snorkeling, and the food was delicious! The crew members were fun and very friendly. We recommend you take this cruise if you’re in Playa del Carmen. –Furman ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

This fantastic, family-friendly event includes a fresh grilled lunch, drinks, and snacks. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or solo travelers looking to meet other like-minded travelers.

Everything is taken care of for you by the friendly staff, from snorkel equipment to lunch and drinks, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy the half day boat tour from Playa del Carmen.

What’s included in the Sailing & Snorkeling Cruise with Freshly Grilled Lunch :

• Catamaran boat tour
• Possible fishing off the catamaran
• Snacks and freshly grilled lunch

9. Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 125 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 3 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Maroma Beach

This Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya picks you up right from your hotel and then heads to Playa Maroma –one of the best and most exclusive beaches in Playa del Carmen .

After boarding the catamaran, you’ll go to two different snorkeling spots and get plenty of time to lounge and sunbathe on the deck. It’s a large, comfortable catamaran that never feels crowded or overrun.

Very excited to share this vacation with my sisters. Very nice staff who were helpful and would take time to show amazing sea animals during snorkeling. –Stacy ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

After the snorkel tour and cruise around the Yucatan Peninsula, you can choose to spend the rest of the day on Playa Maroma, with free access to Maroma Beach. 

There’s no better way to finish a half-day sailing in Playa del Carmen than at one of Riviera Maya’s best beaches.

What’s included in the Catamaran Cruise in Riviera Maya With Snorkeling & Beach Club :

• Roundtrip transportation around the Riviera Maya
• Guided snorkel to two reefs
• Free access to Maroma Beach after the tour

10. Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 70 5-star reviews)
• 🕘 DURATION : 9 hours
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Punta Sam Ferry Terminal

This Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Catamaran cruise is the best option for those looking for a Playa del Carmen party boat experience.

The tour departs from Punta Sam near Cancun, but they can pick you up at your hotel in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. From Punta Sam, you’ll go on a snorkeling tour at Punta Sam Reef.

After snorkeling, you’ll cruise to Isla Mujeres for a few hours and get to do some of the best Isla Mujeres activities like exploring downtown Isla Mujeres or visiting the beautiful Playa Norte.

It was a great day of ocean, snorkeling, and beach fun. The food and drink were good, and the crew kept us safe and entertained. –Frank ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

As one of the best tours to Isla Mujeres from Playa del Carmen , the tour includes roundtrip transportation, a buffet lunch, an open bar, and a tequila party. 

This is not a mellow tour but is advertised more for people who want a few drinks and the chance to safely get to Isla Mujeres–hopefully with a good buzz!

What’s included in the Isla Mujeres Unlimited! Fun & Party with Transportation :

• Roundtrip transportation from the Riviera Maya
• Catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres
• Guided snorkel of Punta Sam Reef
• Time to explore Isla Mujeres and Playa Norte
• Buffet lunch
• Free beach club access on Isla Mujeres

11. Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from Riviera Maya

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 10 5-star reviews)

This Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from the Riviera Maya is a luxurious half-day tour at an affordable price.

You’ll travel aboard a French-made catamaran to one of the best snorkeling spots right off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. 

You’ll have plenty of time for snorkeling, and you might even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle, stingrays, or manta rays.

Great boat with a great crew. The water was really blue, and we saw a lot of fish and rays. Would definitely do it again. –Richard ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

The boat also has state-of-the-art paddleboards for guests to use so that you can explore above the turquoise water.

This is a relatively small tour on a luxurious boat, so you’ll have plenty of space and privacy. It’s one of the best guided boat tours in Playa del Carmen for all travelers: families, solo travelers, and couples.

What’s included in the Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling Experience from Riviera Maya :

• Catamaran cruise
• Guided snorkel tour
• Freshly made lunch

12. Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard

• ⭐️ RATING : 4.5 out of 5 Stars (with more than 75 5-star reviews)
• 📍 DEPARTURE POINT: Playa del Carmen ferry to Cozumel

This Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling tour is another excellent way to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, with a stop at all the best reefs and points of interest around Cozumel.

You’ll hop on the ferry to Cozumel and join a fun and exciting catamaran cruise around the island. 

Diego and team did a great job with our snorkeling excursion! The team made sure that we saw it all – starfish, sea turtles, coral reef, and many beautiful fish. Thank you, Diego and crew, for making this a once in a lifetime experience! –Trip Advisor Reviewer ( READ MORE REVIEWS )

The catamaran cruise stops at the best snorkeling spots in Cozumel and gives you plenty of time to relax in the sun.

If you want to visit Cozumel but don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning, this is the perfect way to go about it.

What’s included in the Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard :

Playa del Carmen Boat Tours: FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding Playa del Carmen boat trips:

There is no marina in Playa del Carmen, so most Playa del Carmen boat rides leave from Puerto Aventuras, which is about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. However, some tours also leave from Cozumel, Cancun, or Punta Maroma.

The cost of boat tours in Playa del Carmen ranges from $50 USD to $500 USD, depending on the type of tour. Most large group tours will be on the lower side, while private yacht tours will be on the higher side.

The number of people on a Playa del Carmen boat tour depends on the boat size, catamaran, or yacht. However, most group excursions have between 10-30 people on it.

You should bring your bathing suit, a beach towel , and reef-safe sunscreen or sun protection clothes. It’s also a good idea to bring a GoPro or waterproof phone pouch if you’d like to take photos on boat cruises in Playa del Carmen.

Most boat tours in Playa del Carmen are with groups of people, but some offer private Playa del Carmen boat tours.

Boat trips in Playa del Carmen last between 2 and 10 hours, depending on what the boat tour involves. The boat tour will be longer if you visit other islands, like Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, or Isla Contoy. If you’re just snorkeling and cruising around, it will be shorter.

Most boat tours in Playa del Carmen include an open bar. However, not all of them do. Double-check with your Playa del Carmen boat tours what they include in the price if an open bar is important to you.

Conclusion: Best Boat Tours Playa del Carmen

So, are you ready for an adventurous and unforgettable sail around the Riviera Maya?

Fortunately, there are hundreds of different boat tours Playa del Carmen has to choose from. 

Whether you’re looking to go to Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, or some of the lesser-known reefs off the Yucatan Peninsula, there’s something here for you.

The Beach Escape: Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy Cruise is my top recommendation with over 440 5-star reviews! 

You’ll get to visit two absolutely stunning islands and it includes roundtrip-transportation, snorkeling, and lots of fun!

Regardless of your choice, you’ll surely have some unforgettable memories. After all, there’s no better way to experience the Caribbean than to spend the day on it!

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🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.