The Original Golden Gate Boat Tour!

Launched in 1939 as part of the Golden Gate International Exposition, our Golden Gate Bay cruise has been a highlight of any visit to San Francisco for more than 70 years. Sail along San Francisco's breathtaking waterfront, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and cruise closely around notorious Alcatraz Island.

On our San Francisco Golden Gate tours, you’ll discover this city’s colorful history and world famous landmarks through personal headphone audio in 12 languages. During the Golden Gate Bridge cruises, you may experience frequent wildlife encounters that include seagulls, pelicans and sea lions. At times, you may see even harbor porpoises and whales. So be alert!

Watch a video of this San Francisco Golden Gate bridge tour.

Our Golden Gate Bay Cruises Highlight the Best Sights of the City

Departing from Pier 43 ½ in the heart of Historic Fisherman’s Wharf, sail past the San Francisco skyline and view the lively neighborhood of North Beach, the famous swimming clubs of Aquatic Park, the historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, the San Francisco Maritime National Park, and numerous other exciting sights.

As you head west towards the Golden Gate Bridge, cruise along Fort Mason and the Marina District which was devastated in the 1989 earthquake. Next, enjoy views of Crissy Field and the lush hillsides of the Presidio—both former army installations—that are now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Don’t miss incredible photo opportunities when sailing directly under the massive 4,200-foot span of the 746-foot tall San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge.

As you steam back into the Bay, travel past the wildlife reserves of the Marin Headlands and the legendary town of Sausalito, once home to the 1960s’ flower generation. With Angel Island State Park to your left, slowly cruise around the infamous Island of Alcatraz. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, see the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, and Coit Tower in the distance.

After a full hour of exciting sights on Red and White Fleet’s Golden Gate Bridge boat tours, the barking sea lions at Pier 39 welcome you back to Pier 43 ½. Here, you can visit two National Historic Landmarks, the WWII submarine USS Pampanito and merchant vessel USS Jeremiah O'Brien.

Details on our Golden Gate Cruise Tours

On our San Francisco Golden Gate boat tours, you’ll find a full bar with drinks, snacks and merchandise (including logo wear) at reasonable prices available onboard.

8 - 12 daily departures from Pier 43½ starting at 10AM.