Marina District Tours: Your Best Bets for Sightseeing & Cruises
The Marina District in San Francisco? It’s that scenic spot known for its views, y’know, right by the water. Deciding what to do can be a bit much, actually, seeing how many tour choices there are. That’s why I made this guide to what I think are the five coolest tours, sightseeing trips, plus those awesome cruises you could check out around here. These aren’t your humdrum trips, you know; these are picks with lots of great views and neat things to see.
1. Golden Gate Bay Cruise: Classic Views
Let’s get going with, that’s right, the Golden Gate Bay Cruise. I mean, it’s a classic, right? It’s about an hour long, plus it gives you all those big-deal views. Very iconic spots like Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge – it’s the kind of stuff you’ve gotta see if it’s your first time, or even just your fifth, really.
You’re going to be snapping pics, I think – that is, like crazy – because the city looks super impressive from the water. Then there’s the audio tour thing. It kinda gives you the stories behind what you’re looking at, almost like having a super-knowledgeable buddy on deck with you. So, too it’s almost informative and relaxing, which isn’t always a thing.
It tends to be a really solid choice if you’re bringing the fam. Even better is that the boats typically have snacks and drinks. What’s more, this kind of cruise usually runs often, so that is there’s a decent chance you can fit it into your day without messing with too much else.
Read our full review: Golden Gate Bay Cruise Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
2. Escape from The Rock Cruise: Alcatraz Focus
Alright, so what about getting close and super personal with Alcatraz? That would mean taking the Escape from The Rock Cruise. It goes all the way around the island. Plus, it gives you that recorded stuff telling wild stories about escapes, inmates, plus all that old prison lore. So it is kind of spooky but definitely interesting.
I think if you dig history or crime stuff, it may be perfect for your liking. Also, they usually play sound effects from back in the day, that makes the whole thing feel that much more real. So, too it’s almost like stepping back into, that is, what life might have been like there.
Just a heads up: this trip doesn’t actually dock at Alcatraz, anyway, it just circles it. Usually, people seem happy with this, since it does give you a pretty thorough view and all the background without the ticket hassle of actually getting onto the island. The views tend to be, basically, unobstructed too, very neat for pics plus all those selfies.
Read our full review: Escape from The Rock Cruise Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
3. Sunset Catamaran Cruise: Chasing the Light
If the setting sun, that’s the sort of magic you like, right?, so it may be worth hopping on a Sunset Catamaran Cruise. Typically, these leave in the late afternoon. So, you end up seeing the city get all kinds of soft, glowy colors as the sun goes down. I think it’s something romantic. Or, just relaxing in general, you know?
Catamarans are usually more stable boats, meaning they don’t rock around as much. Therefore it is kinda nicer if you aren’t exactly thrilled with the idea of feeling seasick. Then too, usually they’ve got drinks plus a few snacks to buy, that always helps right?
Usually, I like suggesting this trip for anyone wanting some good pictures and chill vibes, very much unlike those rushed tour feels, very calm.. Typically, remember to bring a coat too; it can get cool out on the water once that sun dips down below the horizon, naturally.
Read our full review: Sunset Catamaran Cruise Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
4. San Francisco Whale Watching Tour: Spotting Giants
Ok, so maybe you’re all about wildlife, usually?, Then consider one of those Whale Watching Tours in San Francisco. Various trips actually take you out past the Golden Gate so you can, like, look for whales! Often, it’s Gray Whales if you’re going during their migration. Yet you may see other types too.
Often these tours are, you know, half-day affairs, I want to say?. Bring some sunscreen plus layers. I mean it can be chilly. A bit unpredictable out there on the ocean. So, too it’s almost better to be prepared, you know?. Then you definitely want your camera! That way you might, probably get shots if those big guys decide to say hi.
Just so you know, actually, whale sightings are never completely a given. Still, if seeing marine wildlife, that is a high priority? Then going with pros that kinda know the area and what to look for is your best bet. Plus, getting out on the open water is kind of an experience. Very unique. I think, whatever happens.
Read our full review: San Francisco Whale Watching Tour Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
5. The Flyer & 7D Experience: Fun & Games Pier 39
Anyway, looking for some action on dry land, huh?, That’s fine, why not try The Flyer & 7D Experience on Pier 39? See, The Flyer? I think it’s kind of like a simulated flight trip with this, I’d call it huge screen showing footage of San Francisco, that’s immersive right. Plus the seats move around a little.
Oh, and the 7D Experience thing? Anyway that kinda adds more stuff. I think such as shooting at things on screen, moving seats, that’s a bit of wind blowing on you? So, too it’s almost involving, almost the whole time.
Often, I point folks with children to this, that is if they’re scouting things to do, I guess, right?, Basically it is pretty, fairly fast and exciting without being, I want to say actually, hugely scary for those more timid kids.. Very neat thing about this is too it’s indoors; so you may consider saving it for days when the weather doesn’t totally cooperate, you know.
Read our full review: The Flyer & 7D Experience Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check Availability)
