My family of 4 (two teenagers, 16 and 18) did this Bay Tour as part of our CityPass tickets. We had already cycled the Golden Gate Bridge and seen it from Presido Park on foot, so it seemed a nice idea to also see it from a boat. We had also already done an Alcatraz Tour, so the fact that this Bay Tour comes failry close to Alcatraz was an additional bonus.
It was great fun, and we really enjoyed seeing the Bridge from the water. Travelling underneath it is a great new perspective. Be aware that the boat only just goes under and past the bridge a very short distance - it turns around almost immediately.
I'm guessing it turns around so quick because the swell of the Bay waters is remarkably big, and if it went any further, it would probably capsize! The closer we got to the Bridge, the bigger the swell, and it was like being in the South Pacific in a storm at times! I exaggerate a little, but seriously, come prepared to feel cold even on a hot day, and expect to get some sea spray. It's exhilerating and pretty surprising. No wonder swimming in the Bay is not recommended.
Once the boat has managed to turn around (and this manouvre has to be carefully timed with the huge swells!), it suddenly shoots back under the bridge and you will finally feel warmth again.
Of course, what I have described is from the perspective of standing on an outside deck. There is plenty of space inside, or at the back, out of the wind and spray.
Did I say 'stand'? Actually, you need to cling on for dear life. The boat pitches a lot in the swell near the bridge, and it is an effort not to fall over or down the stairs. Take care.
The queue seemed well organised and the boat ran to schedule.
Great fun, and I think a must-do.
Одговор домаћина
Aug 2018
Thank you for your very kind and detailed review. We really appreciate the time you took to provide your perspective on the Bay Cruise Adventure. We're happy to hear the choppy waters were a blast for you and we hope to see you again soon. All best wishes, Dennis