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Red and White Fleet: San Francisco Bay Cruises

Experience San Francisco Bay with Red and White Fleet: Iconic cruises, stunning views, and a piece of San Francisco history since 1892.

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Experience San Francisco Bay with Red and White Fleet, offering scenic cruises since 1892. Enjoy views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline with multilingual audio tours. A family-owned piece of San Francisco history, departing from Fisherman's Wharf.

A brief summary to Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises

  • Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive 15-20 minutes early for boarding, as it's on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Bring a jacket, as it can get chilly on the bay, especially during sunset cruises.
  • Take advantage of the multilingual audio tour to learn about San Francisco's history and landmarks.
  • Check the Red and White Fleet website for special events like the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise or Fleet Week Air Show Cruise.
  • Consider a combo package with other Fisherman's Wharf attractions to save time and money.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the F-Line streetcar to Fisherman's Wharf. The streetcar runs along Market Street and Embarcadero, dropping you off within walking distance of Pier 43 1/2. A single ride costs $3. Alternatively, the 49 bus will also take you to Fisherman's Wharf for $3. From the Ferry Building, you can also take the F streetcar.

  • Cable Car

    From Union Square, take either the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason cable car line to Fisherman's Wharf. The Powell-Hyde line drops you off near Ghirardelli Square, while the Powell-Mason line ends closer to Pier 45. From either stop, it's a short walk to Pier 43 1/2. A single cable car ride costs $8.

  • Walking

    From Pier 39, walk west along the Embarcadero towards Pier 43 1/2. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and offers scenic views of the waterfront.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from downtown to Pier 43 1/2 typically costs $14-$19 and takes about 6 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages and lots are located near Pier 43 1/2. However, parking in Fisherman's Wharf can be expensive, especially during peak season. Here are a few options: * **Pier 39 Garage:** Located at 100-172 Beach St, about a 0.2 mile walk. Rates start at $16.60. * **2552 Taylor Parking Lot:** Located at 2552 Taylor St, also about 0.2 miles away. Rates are around $31.80. * **350 Bay St Garage:** Located at 350 Bay St, approximately 0.2 miles from the pier. Expect to pay around $36. Consider booking a spot in advance using apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to secure a space and potentially save money. Be aware that overnight parking is available at some locations.

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Discover more about Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises

Red and White Fleet has been a San Francisco institution since 1892, offering unforgettable bay cruises that showcase the city's beauty and history. Founded by Thomas Crowley, the company initially supplied ships in the bay before launching its tour boat business in 1915. Today, it's a family-owned and operated business committed to providing memorable experiences on the water. Embark on a signature Golden Gate Bay Cruise, a one-hour journey that sails under the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, offering stunning views of these iconic structures. Circle Alcatraz Island and listen to the award-winning audio tour available in 16 languages, detailing the city's rich history and landmarks. For a longer exploration, the Bridge to Bridge Cruise spans 90 minutes, showcasing the entire San Francisco waterfront. The California Sunset Cruise provides panoramic views of the city skyline at dusk. Red and White Fleet is dedicated to environmental sustainability, demonstrated by their investment in the Enhydra, a 600-passenger all-electric boat. The company also offers private event charters for corporate and private celebrations. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Red and White Fleet provides a unique perspective on San Francisco and its iconic bay.

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