United States
Boat tours in San Francisco
See the city or the coast from the water, from short cruises to full-day sailing. San Francisco is compact, hilly and surrounded on three sides by water, which makes it a city of short trips: a bike ride over the Golden Gate Bridge, a ferry to Alcatraz, a cable car up Nob Hill, dim sum in Chinatown and burritos in the Mission.
Best boat tours in San Francisco
Free cancellation on most experiences. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What to expect
City cruises take about an hour; coastal trips run half or full day with swim stops. Rough sea can cancel departures, and good operators refund or reschedule.
How to choose
- Small boat vs large ferry-style cruise
- Swim stops and snorkel gear included
- Drinks or lunch on board
- Weather cancellation policy
Local tips
- Sunset departures sell out first. Pick free cancellation in case of bad weather.
- Alcatraz tickets are sold only through Alcatraz City Cruises from Pier 33 and often sell out weeks ahead in summer; the night tour is the hardest to get.
- Muir Woods requires a parking or shuttle reservation in advance, which a guided tour includes.
Combine it with: Alcatraz Island tour, Golden Gate Bridge bike ride to Sausalito and Napa Valley or Sonoma wine tour.
Frequently asked questions
How long do boat tours in San Francisco last?
City cruises take about an hour; coastal trips run half or full day with swim stops. Rough sea can cancel departures, and good operators refund or reschedule.
What is the best way to book boat tours in San Francisco?
Sunset departures sell out first. Pick free cancellation in case of bad weather. Alcatraz tickets are sold only through Alcatraz City Cruises from Pier 33 and often sell out weeks ahead in summer; the night tour is the hardest to get.
Can I cancel boat tours in San Francisco?
Most experiences listed here offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the conditions on the booking page before paying.
When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
September and October are the warmest, clearest months. Summer is often cool and foggy, especially near the Golden Gate, and winter brings most of the year's rain; pack layers in any season.