San Francisco Golden Gate Historic Cruise

Step aboard a rare piece of San Francisco’s working history on The Golden Gate, a 1928 Monterey fishing boat captained by born-and-raised San Franciscan, Captain Sal Alioto. Passed down through generations of his Sicilian-American family, this vessel offers an intimate journey along the city’s iconic northern waterfront. Departing from the small wharf behind Tarantino’s at Fisherman’s Wharf, you'll drift through Aquatic Park, past historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, and take in sweeping views of Fort Mason, the Marina Green, and Crissy Field. Sail by the St. Francis Yacht Club and the Wave Organ, with its eerie music if the tide is right. Spot the Palace of Fine Arts inland and Alcatraz on the horizon before reaching the tour’s grand finale - the Golden Gate Bridge - seen from a perspective few ever experience. This soulful cruise blends personal storytelling with breathtaking views, offering a unique connection to the Bay’s rich maritime legacy.

Meeting Point

245 Jefferson St

245 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Meet your guide in front of Supreme Crab Restaurant at 245 Jefferson Street

What's included:

• English Speaking Tour Guide

Not included:

• Guide Gratuity

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Fisherman's Wharf

Jefferson Street, Between Hyde and Powell Streets, San Francisco, 94133, California

Hear real stories of fishermen and waterfront life from Captain Sal Alioto. Experience the Bay through the eyes of a lifelong San Franciscan, as Captain Sal shares firsthand tales of local history, maritime traditions, and the people who shaped the waterfront.

30 minutes

Aquatic Park

2905 Hyde Street, San Francisco, 94109-1314, California

Cruise past historic ships in Aquatic Park and Hyde Street Pier. Start your journey alongside towering masts and preserved vessels from the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, offering a glimpse into the Bay’s rich nautical legacy.

Pass by without stopping

Ghirardelli Square

900 North Point St, Suite E100, San Francisco, 94109-1192, California

Admire Ghirardelli Square & its iconic sign from the deck- an unforgettable view of San Francisco’s charm, history, and indulgence all in one glance. Great for a photo!

Pass by without stopping

Palace of Fine Arts Theatre

3301 Lyon Street, , San Francisco, 94123-1002, California

Spot the majestic Palace of Fine Arts rising beyond the Marina. As you pass the Marina District, look inland to see the Palace’s massive domed rotunda, an architectural treasure from the 1915 World’s Fair and a symbol of old San Francisco glamour.

Pass by without stopping

Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco, 94129, California

Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge for breathtaking panoramic views. Feel the awe as the iconic red towers come into full view. Depending on tides and weather, your boat may cruise beneath or drift nearby for perfect photo moments.

30 minutes

Pier 39

Beach Street & The Embarcadero, San Francisco, 94133, California

Pier 39 bursts into view from the water like a carnival by the sea, colorful flags snapping in the wind and the sea lions sprawled on the sun-drenched (ahem, I mean fog drenched) docks. Away from the crowds but still the same amazing views!

Pass by without stopping

San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge

San Francisco, 94105, California

Time and weather permitting we will sail near the often underrated Bay Bridge. From the water, the Bay Bridge stretches across the horizon like a steel ribbon stitched into the sky.

30 minutes

Alcatraz Island

San Francisco, 94133, California

Get a unique 360 view of Alcatraz Island and its rocky cliffs and weathered buildings. The former prison looms like a ghostly sentinel, casting long shadows that hint at its storied past.

Pass by without stopping