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San Francisco City Lights Cruise

2,073 Reviews 4.57 out of 5 stars Based on 2,073 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 90% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
San Francisco, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 15 (5.42) days in advance.

2 hours (approx.)
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Overview

See San Francisco sparkle on the San Francisco City Lights Cruise, a relaxing 2-hour evening cruise on the Bay. Sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz Island, and along the waterfront for sweeping views of the city skyline.

Unwind to pre-recorded music, enjoy a beverage available for purchase from the onboard bar, and take in the sights from indoor or outdoor seating. Cruise with San Francisco’s original Bay sightseeing company, independently family-owned since 1892.

Dress in warm layers for cool Bay breezes. Sunset views and lighting vary by season and departure time, and San Francisco’s famous fog may partially or completely obscure the Golden Gate Bridge and other sights.

Please note: This cruise does not include audio narration. Pre-recorded music plays throughout the vessel.

What's Included

  • "Straight to the gate" access
  • 2- hour sunset cruise (summer months) or city lights cruise (winter months) of San Francisco Bay
  • Restrooms: Access to clean and convenient restrooms during your cruise.
  • Gratuities
  • Full bar is available onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Pier 43 5
San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Red and White Fleet

Begin and end your journey at Pier 43 1/2.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Golden Gate Bridge (pass by)

Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun sets.
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San Francisco Bay (pass by)

Explore the San Francisco Bay during this 1.5 hour bay cruise.
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Marina District (pass by)

Sail passed the Marina district on your journey back to Fisherman's Wharf.
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Fort Mason Center (pass by)

See Fort Mason from the bay and your journey back to FIsherman's Wharf.
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Coit Tower (pass by)

See Coit Tower from the Bay!
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Salesforce Tower (pass by)

See the Salesforce Tower form the Bay.
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San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge (pass by)

Sail passed the Bay Bridge and enjoy the Bay Bridge's iconic the Bay Light art installation throughout the evening.
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Yerba Buena Island (pass by)

See views of Yerba Buena Island from the Bay!
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Treasure Island (pass by)

See Treasure Island from the Bay!
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Show 9 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Please come to our location 20 minutes prior to the departure time.

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: Will I get seasick on San Francisco City Lights Cruise?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-2630SUN

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.57
2,073 reviews

Average 4.57 out of 5 stars based on 2,073 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1,501
4 stars
369
3 stars
117
2 stars
51
1 star
35
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 15 (5.42) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • "Straight to the gate" access
  • 2- hour sunset cruise (summer months) or city lights cruise (winter months) of San Francisco Bay
  • Restrooms: Access to clean and convenient restrooms during your cruise.
  • Gratuities
  • Full bar is available onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Please come to our location 20 minutes prior to the departure time.
  • This cruise is not narrated. If you would like to learn more about San Francisco, we suggest taking one of our narrated cruises such as the Golden Gate Bay Cruise or the San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 300 travelers

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