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United States/Things to Do in San Francisco, with kids

San Francisco Bay Cruises (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is San Francisco Bay Cruises?

80%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children pay reduced fares, get sized life jackets, and enjoy wildlife spotting and lively commentary, yet there is no play zone and railings require parents to supervise them constantly.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 110 reviews)
San Francisco Bay Cruise: Alcatraz to Golden Gate!
3 min
Start from:
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San Francisco Bay Cruise: Alcatraz to Golden Gate!
1.2K views • 3 months ago
4K | SAN FRANCISCO BAY CRUISE | USA
9 min
Start from:
0:00
4K | SAN FRANCISCO BAY CRUISE | USA
1.4K views • 3 years ago

Positives:

  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Free child-size life jackets and stroller boarding make the cruise easy with young kids.
  • Educational Narration: Live commentary shares fun facts that keep kids engaged throughout the ride.

Challenges:

  • No Shade on Upper Deck: Upper deck seating has limited cover—pack sunscreen, hats and extra layers.
  • Busy Boarding Area: Pier 43½ can get crowded; arrive early to secure seating and store any stroller.
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🏖️ Explore San Francisco Bay Cruises with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around San Francisco Bay Cruises. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is San Francisco Bay Cruises?

  • A maritime operator conducting scheduled sightseeing tours across San Francisco Bay
  • A diverse fleet featuring open-air decks, enclosed cabins, and historic paddlewheel vessels
  • Cruise routes navigating beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island from Fisherman’s Wharf

What is so special about San Francisco Bay Cruises for with kids?

  1. Family-friendly 1-hour narrated cruise with audio headsets for kids
  2. Up-close sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and panorama of Alcatraz Island
  3. Free child life jackets and stroller-friendly boarding make logistics simple
  4. Arrive 20 minutes early at Pier 43½ to secure seats and store stroller
  5. Pack layers, sunscreen and snacks for a comfortable bay experience

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Includes a 1-hour narrated cruise plus time for boarding, seating and post-cruise snacks without rushing younger kids.

(View San Francisco Bay Cruises on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in San Francisco Bay Cruises

Narrated Red & White Fleet Tour:

Join the 1-hour live commentary cruise from Pier 43½ focusing on ships, forts and bay wildlife.

Tip: Arrive 20 minutes early, pick up kids’ headsets and grab outdoor deck seats together.

Golden Gate Bridge Passage:

Sail directly under the bridge to see its towers and suspension cables up close.

Tip: Sit on the port side for best views and have your camera ready at mid-bridge.

Alcatraz Island Loop:

Circle the former prison island for wide-angle views and seabird spotting.

Tip: Choose the starboard side and bring kid-friendly binoculars for a closer look.

Wildlife and Boat Watching:

Scan the water for sea lions, dolphins, tugboats and yachts as you cruise.

Tip: Ask the crew to point out animals and rail structures; let kids mark sightings on a simple checklist.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to San Francisco Bay Cruises

  1. Book Online Early: Reserve Red & White Fleet tickets in advance to skip lines and choose seats together.
  2. Pick the Best Side: Sit port side for Golden Gate views and starboard for Alcatraz and wildlife spotting.
  3. Time Your Cruise: In summer, choose afternoon departures after fog lifts for clearer panoramas.
🏖️ Tour San Francisco Bay Cruises like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in San Francisco Bay Cruises. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of San Francisco Bay Cruises

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David Esquibel

David Esquibel

Jul 2025

Rey Zegri and Pier 39 Boat Rides offer one of the premier boating experiences in the Bay Area. Known for their professionalism, hospitality, and family-friendly atmosphere, they provide unforgettable excursions—from scenic sunset cruises to Alcatraz tours and special events like the Fourth of July celebration, which we personally enjoyed. Don’t be misled by less reputable operations—trust Rey and ...

Danielle

Danielle

May 2025

We had a very scary experience on this boat tour. My gf & I decided to do the $20 small water taxi tour. We were told the water was perfect that day for the tour. When we got on the boat, it was just us & a family; a mom, dad & 2 little girls around 3/4 years old. No safety instructions were given. The driver didn’t say a word but started going out. I was surprised because usually there’s a little...

DO-451 Tomahawk “T6”

DO-451 Tomahawk “T6”

Aug 2024

Rey has a great set of adventures on the bay, leaving from Pier 39. We did the 90-minute sail. It's just the perfect trip! Don't worry if you're not dressed warm enough. The crew provides blankets and jackets to keep you and your crew warm. As you may guess, you sail around the bay and around Alcatraz Island. The crew gives plenty of stories, history, and interesting facts during the cruise. Bee...

Isaac Pelayo

Isaac Pelayo

Mar 2024

We booked this last minute as a surprise and it was such a great experience. Such a lively driver and fun way to see the Golden Gate Bridge in a whole new light. Would definitely come again to show family or friends.

Richard Ventura

Richard Ventura

May 2023

Best place for bay cruise tickets! I took the short 30 minute ride around pier 39, very close to the sea lions, great view of naval ship Jeremiah, and great views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Captain made sure every got great selfies. Definitely worth doing again. You can also get tickets for all the other bay cruises. They can help you decide which to do.

When is the best time to visit San Francisco Bay Cruises (San Francisco, United States)?

Summer mornings can be foggy; opt for afternoon departures after 2 pm for clearer skies. In cooler months, pack windproof jackets and hats for deck time.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to San Francisco on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult tickets (2 × $43)USD 86
Child ticket (5–11)USD 28
Onboard snacks & drinksUSD 20
Total EstimatedUSD 134

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of San Francisco Bay Cruises

Address: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

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About San Francisco Bay Cruises

Opening Hours

Monday:10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 9:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 415-480-2004

Average price

US$ 13.28
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 13.28
Book on GetYourGuide
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