San Francisco’s sailing scene is a no-nonsense way to experience the city’s best views. The bay offers both thrilling adventures and relaxing outings, with the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz as your backdrop.
We especially love the America’s Cup-style racing tours for their pure excitement and hands-on experience. For a mellower option, the sunset catamaran cruises hit the sweet spot – they’re comfortable, well-priced, and perfectly timed for those postcard-worthy photos.
Check our recommended tours below for specific times, prices, and booking details.
Key Points
- San Francisco Bay Sailing Tours offer 1.5-hour sailing tours from Pier 39 with views of iconic landmarks and high traveler recommendation.
- Bay Sailing Tours with Drinks provide a 2-hour sailing experience on the Privateer sailboat, with stunning views and complimentary beverages.
- Interactive Sailing Experiences allow participants to actively engage in 20-minute sailing sessions at iconic sites, suitable for all ages.
- Special Event Cruises, such as July 4th and New Year’s Eve, offer unique sailing experiences with live entertainment, food, and drinks.
- America’s Cup Sailing Adventures provide high-performance racing yacht experiences with expert guidance and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
5-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Tour
A 1.5-hour San Francisco Bay sailing tour is an excellent way to experience the city’s iconic landmarks from the water.
Departing from Pier 39, you’ll sail past Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, the Sausalito waterfront, and the Golden Gate Bridge, all while taking in the scenic views of the San Francisco skyline.
This elegant vessel with teak decks and bronze fittings can accommodate up to 18 passengers, ensuring a personalized experience with the captain and crew.
The tour includes two beverages and a safety briefing before departure, making it a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the Bay.
With 96% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s a must-do activity for any visitor to San Francisco.
San Francisco Bay: Americas Cup Sailing Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating America’s Cup sailing adventure on the San Francisco Bay.
Hop aboard a high-performance racing yacht and experience the thrill of navigating the iconic waters just like the pros. With an expert skipper, you’ll learn the art of competitive sailing as you handle the sails and trim the lines.
Feel the wind in your face and the waves beneath your feet as you race across the bay, taking in breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
This unique excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the rich maritime heritage of San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay: Americas Cup Sailing Adventure Review
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San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise
For a unique perspective of the San Francisco skyline during the golden hour, step aboard the San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise.
This 1.5-hour sunset cruise on a 55- or 65-foot catamaran offers stunning views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline.
With 96% traveler recommendation based on 1,241 reviews, this experience is a must-do.
Enjoy 360-degree views from inside or on the canvas trampoline, and keep an eye out for sea lions and other marine life.
The cruise includes a complimentary drink, and additional beverages are available for purchase.
Dress warmly and bring your camera to capture the unforgettable photo opportunities.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise Review
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San Francisco: Empress Yacht July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise
Celebrate the Fourth of July in style aboard the Empress Yacht, where you’ll experience a lively party cruise with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay fireworks display.
This 2-hour cruise offers a unique perspective on the city’s iconic skyline and the vibrant pyrotechnics. Enjoy live music, a full bar, and a buffet dinner as you sail through the bay.
Tickets are €199.10, making this a premium experience. Skip the crowds on land and bask in the festive atmosphere on the water.
This new activity is the perfect way to spend Independence Day in San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Empress Yacht July 4th Fireworks Party Cruise Review
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San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of San Francisco is through a 1.5-hour San Francisco Bay sailing cruise.
Aboard a catamaran, you’ll sail past iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Sausalito.
Departing from Pier 39’s Gate J, the cruise offers stunning views and photo opportunities while you enjoy the sea breeze.
The tour is accessible to manual wheelchair users, though boarding requires navigating stairs.
Tickets start at $69, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
With a 5.0 rating and 98% recommendation from previous travelers, this sailing experience is a must-do for visitors to San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise Review
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2hr – SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay
Set out on a 2-hour interactive sunset sailing adventure on the serene waters of San Francisco Bay.
Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, while enjoying a picturesque sunset.
This small-group experience, limited to 6 participants, offers the opportunity to take the helm and sail the boat yourself.
With an English and Spanish-speaking captain, you’ll create lifelong memories surrounded by the bay’s natural beauty.
Priced from $149 per person, the cruise includes soft drinks, water, and snacks.
Arrive 15-20 minutes early, dress warmly, and bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
With 5/5 reviews, this is a must-try sailing experience in San Francisco.
Read our full review: 2hr – SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay Review
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Americas Cup Day Sailing Adventure on San Francisco Bay
For an even more thrilling experience on the San Francisco Bay, consider the America’s Cup Day Sailing Adventure.
You’ll board a high-speed International America’s Cup-class yacht and sail the actual race course from the 2013 competition. Along the way, you’ll glide beneath the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
The knowledgeable crew will let you control the sails and steer the boat, providing an unforgettable hands-on experience. With 98% of travelers recommending this activity, you’re guaranteed a memorable sail filled with the excitement of an America’s Cup race.
At $207.74 per person, it’s a must-do for any sailing enthusiast visiting San Francisco.
Read our full review: Americas Cup Day Sailing Adventure on San Francisco Bay Review
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San Francisco: Empress Yacht New Years Eve Party Cruise
On New Year’s Eve, indulge in a lavish celebration aboard the Empress yacht as it sails along the picturesque San Francisco Bay.
At $319 per person, this 3.5-hour cruise offers an unparalleled experience. Enjoy stunning views of the fireworks display, dance to a live DJ, and savor delectable hors d’oeuvres while sipping cocktails from the 3-hour open bar.
The yacht is wheelchair-accessible, though guests under 21 aren’t permitted. Bring your ID and leave pets, weapons, and large bags at home.
While the itinerary may change, this unforgettable party cruise promises an unforgettable start to the new year.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Empress Yacht New Years Eve Party Cruise Review
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2-Hour Private Sailboat Charter in the San Francisco Bay
Although San Francisco offers a wealth of sailing experiences, the 2-Hour Private Sailboat Charter stands out as a unique opportunity to customize your adventure on the bay.
For just $695 per group of up to 6 people, you’ll enjoy a private cruise, free from the crowds of larger boats. Sail past iconic sights like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge, and savor the stunning views.
With a skilled captain at the helm, you can tailor the itinerary to your preferences. The charter includes safety gear, snacks, and a photo memento.
Just remember to leave the bananas at home – the superstitious crew won’t allow them onboard.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Private Sailboat Charter in the San Francisco Bay Review
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San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise
Set out on a captivating 1.5-hour catamaran cruise around San Francisco Bay, where you’ll witness the city’s iconic skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge up-close.
Priced from $65 per person, this experience promises unparalleled views and the opportunity to spot sea lions. Reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Grab a snack or beverage from the onboard amenities as you take in the sights. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 454 reviews, this cruise is a must-do for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Just remember to dress warmly and leave your pets and large bags at home.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise Review
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San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran
Sail off into the San Francisco sunset aboard a luxurious catamaran as you cruise along the picturesque Bay.
This 1.5-hour experience showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including Alcatraz Island, Sausalito, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Spot sea lions at Pier 39 and take in the panoramic 360-degree views from the comfort of the 55 or 65-foot catamaran.
Sip on a complimentary drink as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, creating a breathtaking display.
With an excellent 4.8/5 rating based on over 1,000 reviews, this is an unforgettable way to experience San Francisco’s natural beauty.
Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, so book your sunset sail today.
Read our full review: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran Review
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2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized sailing experience on San Francisco Bay, the 2-hour private sailing charter offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Priced at $795 for up to 6 guests, this exclusive excursion lets you sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz and Angel Island, while spotting wildlife and enjoying scenic views.
You can even take the wheel and engage in the sailing process under the guidance of a knowledgeable crew.
Complimentary soft drinks, water, and snacks are provided, and gratuities are included.
With flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, this private sailing experience is ideal for corporate events, family outings, or special celebrations.
Read our full review: 2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests Review
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San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour With Drinks
Discover the splendor of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of a 28-passenger sailboat, the Privateer.
This 2-hour sailing tour takes you on a journey around the bay, offering stunning views of the city skyline, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Enjoy two complimentary beverages as you sail, and engage with the skilled crew who’ll share insights about the landmarks.
The tour costs $129 per person and is likely to sell out, so book your spot in advance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this experience is a must-do for any visitor to San Francisco.
Read our full review: San Francisco: Bay Sailing Tour With Drinks Review
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2hr – INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay
Enjoy an interactive sailing escapade on the enchanting waters of San Francisco Bay.
This 2-hour experience offers a chance to sail with a licensed captain, taking in the iconic sights of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Angel Island State Park.
Hop aboard the boat and enjoy 20-minute sailing sessions at each key site, with opportunities to spot marine life along the way.
Sip on soft drinks, water, and snacks as you capture scenic photos.
Suitable for ages 6 and up, this tour provides a memorable, hands-on adventure for small groups of up to 6 participants.
With a 4.8/5 rating, it’s a top-rated sailing experience in the city.
Read our full review: 2hr – INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay Review
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Treasure Island, FL: Suncoast Sailing Day & Sunset Cruise
Venture to the west coast of Florida and embark on a captivating Suncoast Sailing experience in Treasure Island.
Sail through the historic John’s Pass to the Gulf of Mexico, taking in vibrant sunsets and natural beauty. Choose from daytime or sunset tours, with the latter setting sail about an hour before dusk.
Relax on the smooth waters, sipping complimentary bottled water as you admire the crew’s excellence. Disembark at the BoatDega, just minutes from Madeira Beach, St. Pete Beach, and downtown St. Petersburg, where you’ll find free parking.
With a 5/5 rating from previous guests, this is a must-try sailing adventure on Florida’s west coast.
Read our full review: Treasure Island, FL: Suncoast Sailing Day & Sunset Cruise Review
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I Sail SF, Sailing Charters and Tours of SF Bay
For a private sailing experience on the stunning San Francisco Bay, consider I Sail SF.
Their 2-hour charters start at $650 for up to 6 participants. You can reserve your spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge or along the waterfront, customizing your trip to your wants and needs.
Pickup is included from designated locations on the San Francisco waterfront or Point Richmond.
All passengers must be physically capable of boarding and deboarding from a boat and able to handle the Bay’s waves and wind.
Read our full review: I Sail SF, Sailing Charters and Tours of SF Bay Review
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3hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests
Looking for a private sailing experience on the stunning San Francisco Bay? Consider the “hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests” tour.
This 6-guest sailing adventure lasts for 2 hours and is perfect for a small group or intimate celebration. Cruise under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz Island, and around the beautiful San Francisco Bay.
Enjoy breathtaking views and a personalized experience with a knowledgeable captain. Priced at $289 per person, this private sailing tour is a unique way to explore the city from the water.
With a 4.8-star rating from 46 reviews, it’s an excellent choice for a memorable San Francisco outing.
Read our full review: 3hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
You’ll find a wealth of sailing experiences in San Francisco to suit your interests, from thrilling America’s Cup adventures to relaxing sunset cruises. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, you can discover the beauty of the Bay from the water. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect sailing excursion to make your visit to San Francisco unforgettable.