California > San Francisco > Scenic & Sunset Cruises Experiences

San Francisco Catamaran Cruise

San Francisco, CA

From: $60

Item #: CRU-SFR-0038

(27 Reviews)

Golden Gate Bridge during San Francisco Catamaran Cruise

Hands on Sailing during San Francisco Catamaran Cruise

Catamaran Sailing Adventure in San Francisco

Video

Explore one of San Francisco's most magnificent features in a purely relaxing way. Hop aboard the SF Catamaran Cruise for an unforgettable boat tour of the Bay Area's beautiful waters!

The sailing provider has been offering world-class boat tours of the San Francisco Bay since 1991
Relish the excitement of departing from the Fisherman's Wharf area one of the city's most vibrant hot spots for locals and tourists alike
Traverse the water for 90 minutes on an impressive 55-foot catamaran, complete with a cash bar for snack and beverage purchases
A comfortable protected viewing area is available for those who wish to enjoy more of the scenery and less of the breeze
Sail beside iconic San Francisco attractions like historic Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge as you take in the spectacular city skyline!

From: $60

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Overview

Explore one of San Francisco's most magnificent features in a purely relaxing way. Hop aboard the SF Catamaran Cruise for an unforgettable boat tour of the Bay Area's beautiful waters!

The sailing provider has been offering world-class boat tours of the San Francisco Bay since 1991
Relish the excitement of departing from the Fisherman's Wharf area one of the city's most vibrant hot spots for locals and tourists alike
Traverse the water for 90 minutes on an impressive 55-foot catamaran, complete with a cash bar for snack and beverage purchases
A comfortable protected viewing area is available for those who wish to enjoy more of the scenery and less of the breeze
Sail beside iconic San Francisco attractions like historic Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge as you take in the spectacular city skyline!

Full Description

Experience the uncontested beauty of 'The City by the Bay' from the enticing decks of the San Francisco Catamaran Cruise! Embrace SF's breathtaking cityscape and legendary landmarks from the unique vantage point of invigorating Pacific waters.

Cruise from San Francisco's famed Fisherman's Wharf area a lively urban hub known for its eclectic food, entertainment, shops, and congregation of sea lions. Step aboard a 55-foot catamaran with multiple seating options, perfect for your favorite type of SF sightseeing. Snag a spot on the boat's unique deck trampolines. Their sturdy netting allows for exhilarating viewing opportunities as turquoise waves rush under your feet. They also double wonderfully as the ideal location for lounging in the sun on a nice, warm day.

Prefer a break from the wind and waves? Duck into the San Francisco Catamaran Cruise's protected cabin area. You'll find a cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating and 360-degree views, as well as a cash bar! Grab a snack, soda, beer or wine then kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you marvel at famed SF attractions from all angles.

Your scenic SF cruise will give you unrivaled perspectives of celebrated landmarks on the Bay that some only dream of viewing close-up! Sail around the historic Alcatraz Island, admiring its architecture and wondering at the tales it surely has to tell. Traverse past the Gold Rush's prized Fort Point. Ready to have your breath absolutely taken away. Get your camera ready because cruising under the renowned Golden Gate Bridge is next, with countless photo opps of the city's skyline also available! And the unique San Francisco sightseeing doesn't stop there! Keep your eyes peeled for animated wildlife that may happen to be passing by, like a dolphin racing the boat, a colony of grunting sea lions, or maybe even a whale sighting!

Since 1991, your provider has been offering world-class cruises from San Francisco, delighting thousands of passengers both young and old. So step aboard! Grab a headset to hear a fascinating narration of renowned sights. Relax on the outside trampoline decks with a refreshing beverage. Or visit the captain, take the helm, and help steer this thrilling SF cruise across its route!

Experience for yourself why the San Francisco Catamaran Cruise is one of the most unforgettable things to do in SF!

Location

Pier 39 - San Francisco, CA

Availability

When Do I Choose A Date?

If giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience; otherwise, you can choose one after checkout.

February through Mid-March:
Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 1:30 PM

Mid-March through August:
Daily - 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM

September through October:
Daily - 1:30 PM & 3:30 PM

November through Mid-December:
Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 1:30 PM

Important Details

Essential Information

Life jackets are available on board for children and adults
Snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks can be purchased on board with cash or credit, no outside beverages are allowed on board
Special child pricing available for children ages 6 - 12 years, please contact Virgin Experience Gifts for pricing
Children 5 years and younger are free, please notify Virgin Experience Gifts at the time of booking so accommodations can be made

Duration

1.5 Hours

Experience Provider Info

Complete information for your Experience Provider, including contact information, will be included on your booking confirmation email once you or your gift recipient have scheduled the experience. Our Product Management team handpicks top-rated experience providers, removing the guesswork for you and ensuring your peace of mind.

Maximum Participants

Up to 76 passengers

Spectators

Not allowed

Weather Dependent

The activity usually runs in light rain and other moderate weather conditions, but your experience provider may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If your provider cancels the event, you will be allowed to reschedule your experience or receive credit for a future event.

What To Wear

Participants are advised to wear jeans, a tee-shirt or sweatshirt, tennis shoes and to bring a jacket. If it's a special occasion, you can certainly dress up, just note that soft-soled shoes are recommended. Jackets are available on board, but yours will be much more stylish.

FAQs

What is the difference between a catamaran and a real sailboat?

A catamaran has two hulls instead of one, the result is a more stable ride. It's like comparing a Rolls Royce to a Dune Buggy.

Will I get seasick?

Since catamarans are more stable, most people don't have any problems. However, if you are very susceptible to sickness, you may want to take seasick pills or wear a patch.

Will I get wet?

If you're outside on the trampolines, there is a pretty good chance you'll get wet. If you really don't want to get wet, you can stay in the cabin. With a 360 degree view, you won't miss a single thing.

How fast does the Adventure Cat 2 go?

Under sail, the average speed is 8-12 knots (approximately 9-13 MPH).

Returns, Exchanges & Cancellations

Returns
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be returned hassle-free within 30 days. All refunds will be made to the original purchaser.
Exchanges
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be exchanged for anything else in our marketplace at any time. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs more, you'll simply have to pay the difference. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs less, you'll have a credit towards your next booking with Virgin Experience Gifts.

Cancellation Policy

Once you have scheduled a date and received a booking confirmation, rescheduling is allowed up to 72 hours prior to the experience. Failure to appear on your booked date or to reschedule at least 72 hours prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your experience.

Other San Francisco Experiences

Bioluminescent Kayak Tour in Tomales Bay

Customer Reviews

This experience has a customer rating of 5
based on 27 reviews.

View More Reviews:

This was so much fun! Great way to see the bay and Golden Gate from a new view!

— Sunaya P | Sep 02, 2022

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hello Sunaya, I am delighted to hear that this cruise brought all the fun! How wonderful that you were able to see both the bay and bridge from a whole new perspective. Some may even say it was a golden view. I appreciate you taking the time to share your review with us, and we can't wait to get you out on some more experiences soon! Best, Brooke

This was an amazing experience for the whole family. My 5 year old was full of giggles for the whole event. We went on a lovely, if cold day. Be sure to dress for wind and fog, San Fransisco is known for cold weather. The crew was very good a working with people and really made the event special. And my kid was able to steer the boat for a few minutes. Adults (and strong kids) we able to help raise the sail if they wanted to. Since 5 year olds are free, we called the team to add him after registration was confirmed (other wise just paid for the two adults).

— Katie H | Jul 12, 2022

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Katie, This review made me smile! I love that there were giggles and fun times had by everyone in your group! It's great to hear the staff was so pleasant, that detail can definitely make all the difference. Thank you for the recommendation about proper dress for the chilly weather, I'm sure that will help future adventurers! The hands on aspect of this cruise sounds very engaging and entertaining! Thank you for sharing this awesome experience with us! Best Regards, Cheri

The crew was knowledgeable and fun, and they recruited passengers to help raise unlaw the sales, including five or six adorable little kids who will never forget it. It was a great trip!

— Karen N | Jun 01, 2022

Totally fun experience! We went on a day of serious wind and the Captain was calm, cool, collected and handled it like a pro. Felt well taken care of and the views were EPIC of San Francisco, Golden Gate, Marin Headlands, Alcatraz and Treasure Island.

— Dana D | May 10, 2022

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hello Dana, Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this experience! I am so delighted that the Captain handed the tough weather so professionally. We truly do work with the best of the best and I am glad that is being showed off! I can only imagine what the views would be like! If you have any pictures, we would love to see this experience from the view of one happy customer! All my best, Kayleen

What an amazing experience! Most definitely 5 star worthy! Captain and crew were so professional and experienced. Got to help hoist the sail and they had some delicious snacks for Mother's Day sail!

— Will D | May 10, 2022

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hello Dana, Thank you for your 5 star review! It sounds like an amazing day cruising through the San Francisco Bay. What an incredible way to see the Golden State Bridge and the spectacular skyline. What an awesome opportunity to assist the crew in hoisting the sail! I'm thrilled you were able to go on this adventure on a special day and create some life long memories! Thanks, Ryan

My husband and I had such a great time! The boat was great. Lots of seating inside out of the wind with still a great view of the surroundings. The front of the boat was fun and enjoyable as well but too windy for me. They had a great selection of drinks and some fun music was playing on the boat. It was such a fun way to view the Golden Gate Bridge. I'm so happy we were able to have this experience!

— Kourtney J | Apr 04, 2022

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hello Kourtney, I'm thrilled to hear you and your husband had a great time. Although it was a windy trip, I'm glad you were able to enjoy the adventure in the indoor seating. It truly sounds like an unforgettable day being able to enjoy the drinks and music! We're happy you found us and hope we have an opportunity to get you out on another experience. Thanks, Ryan

It was a very fun, positive experience. The staff were kind and knowledgeable!

— Lauren A | Sep 07, 2021

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hello Lauren! Sounds like you had a beautiful day out on the San Fransisco Bay. I am ecstatic that the staff treated you well and made for a fun and positive sailing experience. Wishing you many more adventures filled with fun, laughter, and memories! Warm regards, Elizabeth

Great experience ! The staff on the boat were so kind and made us feel very safe with their extensive safety precautions. The capacity was kept at 25% of normal capacity in order to provide adequate social distancing. The views were spectacular and the team helped us to take some great photos under the golden gate. I would highly recommend and especially at the moment. Such a great way to enjoy the bay and get out of the house while remaining safe.

— Taylor N | Jul 20, 2020

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hi there Taylor! It sounds like the San Francisco Catamaran Cruise was a splash hit! A big early congratulations on your wedding, I'm so sorry COVID-19 has impacted your plans. We are over the moon happy to hear that you felt safe on your 5-star experience. Please let us know if you want to get out again to enjoy the Bay! Best, Chandi

Great time with a great crew!

— Peter S | Sep 16, 2019

Beautiful sail around SF Bay!!

— Vicki B | Sep 11, 2019

Cloud 9 made the process so simple and enjoyable when I was already trying to juggle planning so much! Special thanks to Chelsea for making my life simpler! Adventure Cat’s crew was also incredible and so willing to help with taking great pictures so we could have something special to go home with!

— Megan Q | Apr 10, 2018

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hey Megan, Happy Friday and thanks for the kind review! I'll be sure to pass along your gratitude to Chelsea as well as the Adventure Cat crew. That's wonderful that you have some great photos to remember what sounds like an amazing experience. Enjoy your weekend! Best, Brooke

The crew was amazing and the tour was awesome. If you're planning to visit San Francisco, this is definitely an experience you should have!

— Elena S | Apr 29, 2018

Response from Virgin Experience Gifts

Hey Elena, I'm so glad to hear you had a wonderful tour on the water! I'll be sure to pass along your kind words to your crew. They will be delighted to hear that! Thanks for sharing with us. Have a great day! Best, Brooke

The boat was very clean and tidy. The main captain with the Aussie accent was right on top of everything and very friendly, as were the other two in training. He showed a lot of patience. Thank you so much.

— Sharon H | Sep 03, 2015

From booking the experience to going on the cruise, this was amazing. By far one of the best gifts I've received!!!

— Elizabeth B | Aug 24, 2015

Beautiful day sailing the San Francisco Bay, especially going under the bridge! Great staff and reasonable prices on food and drink! Very memorable!

— Kelly W | Apr 09, 2015

Great, fast, friendly and helpful service.

— Brian N | Nov 10, 2014

So fun and easy!

— Maeve H | Oct 20, 2014

My husband and I, both retired and visiting from England, received this as a gift. The crew were friendly, helpful and informative. We had perfect weather and a fantastic, exciting trip that we will always remember! Thank you.

— Gail M | Oct 09, 2014

The trip was a gift from our children for our 29th anniversary. The weather was warm and foggy. It was a glorious SF day at sea, sir!

— Anne H | Oct 02, 2014

Great way to spend an hour and half on San Francisco Bay!

— David J | Sep 01, 2014

Booked a catamaran cruise around San Francisco bay, and from the booking process through to the experience itself everything was excellent, had a lovely cruise around the bay and under the golden gate bridge, took some amazing photographs, and full marks to the guys on board who looked after us. Excellent experience all round, would certainly reconmend.

— Paul R | Apr 28, 2014

Had a great time! Captain and crew were friendly and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend this experience to others!

— Sarah T | Apr 21, 2014

This catamaran sailing was the best cruise ever. Very friendly and customer oriented individuals. Knowledge and timing was very accurate. I will recommend to friends going to San Francisco!!! I took my brother and his wife with us and they were thrilled and want to do it again!!!

— William W | Aug 21, 2013

Highly rec

— Kevin L | Aug 15, 2013

Our catamaran adventure was more than we could have imagined. The crew was wonderful and the ship was beautiful. I would absolutely recommend this experience for anyone who loves the water. I did want to mention that I was surprised that when I saw their price on the gate for $10 cheaper than what I paid with you. This was rather disappointing as I have been recommending you to all my friends. This might be something you could research in your future experiences. Thank you so much

— Pamella H | Aug 14, 2012

The experience was everything we wanted, beautiful, engaging and memorable.

— Stephanie W | Jul 29, 2011

Thanks to a co-worker who purchased a gift for me through Cloud 9 Living, I experienced a thrilling 1.5 hour adventure sailing on a catamaran on San Francisco Bay.

— Michael S | Dec 04, 2009

San Francisco Catamaran Cruise