San Francisco Golden Gate Whale Watching Tour

4.4
(430 reviews)
San Francisco, USA

2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Take a sightseeing cruise across San Francisco Bay and glide under the Golden Gate Bridge on this 2.5-hour whale-watching tour. Search for humpback and gray whales along with more abundant porpoises, dolphins, and harbor seals while learning about the unique history and geology of the area from a professional naturalist on board. Cruise past iconic landmarks aboard a Coast Guard–certified eco-friendly vessel with abundant cabin space and comfortable sun deck.

What's Included

Professional guide
Coast guard–certified vessel with professional captain and crew
Live commentary on board
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Pier 39

Address: Pier 39 Dock B, San Francisco, CA 94133 Pier 39 is directly across the street from 2 Beach St, San Francisco, CA, 94133. Our booth is the second one on the right when you enter the Pier, just after the Hard Rock Cafe. A crew member will meet you at the booth 30 min prior to departure, then direct you to the boat.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Pier 39

    Start your whale-watching tour from Pier 39 in San Francisco. A member of the crew will welcome you aboard the eco-friendly catamaran. With its hull design and superior engineering, the vessel offers a smooth ride across San Francisco Bay.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Angel Island State Park (Pass by)

    Following a safety orientation to familiarize yourself with the boat, take in the views of Angel Island and nearby Alcatraz.

    Admission ticket free
  • Golden Gate Bridge (Pass by)

    Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and head out to sea, venturing 3 to 8 miles (4 to 12 km) in search of marine life. In addition to humpback and gray whales, the Bay Ares is frequented by numerous porpoises, dolphins, sharks, sea lions, and various bird populations, as explained by the onboard naturalist.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    San Francisco Bay

    Dramatic cliffs and imposing rocky shorelines create a dramatic backdrop while you relax inside the heated cabin or watch for whales from the spacious deck. Learn local trivia and brush up on regional history about Native Americans, Spanish explorers, or Gold Rush immigrants.

    2 hours 30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Fisherman's Wharf

    Returning to Pier 39, you'll find numerous eateries where you can purchase clam chowder or the famous sourdough bread of Fisherman’s Wharf.

    1 minute Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Supplied by San Francisco Whale Tours
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Tags

Day Cruises
Private and Luxury
Whale Watching
Water Tours
On the Water
Dolphin Watching
Sightseeing Cruises
Involves Animals
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.4 Based on 430 430 reviews
5 stars
303
4 stars
50
3 stars
32
2 stars
20
1 star
25
from per person
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