San Francisco City Lights Cruise (2-hours)
Overview
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience the magic of San Francisco after dark with our San Francisco City Lights Cruise, a perfect evening escape. As the sun sets, the city comes to life, and this 2-hour cruise offers a front-row seat to the iconic landmarks of the Bay, all illuminated against the night sky.
Sail under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, past Alcatraz Island, and along the sparkling city skyline. This cruise showcases San Francisco from a unique perspective. Wrap up in warm layers, enjoy a beverage from the onboard bar, and relax as the city’s lights create a stunning backdrop to your adventure.
Please note: this cruise does not include audio narration. Prerecorded music is played throughout the vessel.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please come to our location 15 minutes prior to the departure time.
This cruise is not narrated. If you would like to learn more about San Francisco, we suggest taking one of our narrated cruises such as the Golden Gate Bay Cruise or the San Francisco Bridge to Bridge Cruise.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
2- hour city lights cruise (winter months) or sunset cruise (summer months) of San Francisco Bay
"Straight to the gate" access
Restrooms: Access to clean and convenient restrooms during your cruise.
Gratuities
Full bar is available onboard to purchase drinks and snacks.
What To Expect
Red and White Fleet
Begin and end your journey at Pier 43 1/2.
Golden Gate Bridge
Sail under the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun sets.
Options
Sunset or City Lights Cruise
Sunset Cruise is only available in the summer from Apr-Oct. City Lights Cruise is only available in the winter from Oct-Mar.
Reviews
1,799 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fun little excursion!
Elizabeth D,
Oct 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a really nice little cruise, especially for the price. The views were lovely even on a slightly overcast evening. The ship was clean (including the bathrooms) and comfortable. There was plenty of room to spread out and move about, with many picture taking opportunities. The staff were helpful and friendly. The ship had a special exhibition to celebrate Frida Kahlo and Hispanic heritage, which was enjoyable, but not intrusive. The only thing I might have liked better would be an occasional pointing out of landmarks by the captain.
Highly recommend the...
Donna B,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Highly recommend the sunset bay cruise. If there is only one thing someone can do while visiting San Francisco I recommend the sunset bay cruise. The views were amazing.
City scape
Bruce B,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Clean boat, fun, beautiful city to see. The sunset was spectacular. Even watching the birds diving for food was entertaining.
Great experience
Jean H,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was not only a sunset cruise but also a bay tour. Although the fog did not allow a great sunset view the tour itself was great.
Checked a lot of Boxes
JOSEPH M,
Oct 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00I had a few hours to kill on a delayed flight so I chose this tour. It checked a lot of boxes for me having never been to San Fran. Boat was big and relaxing, not crowded. Offered full bar service. Got to see The GG Bridge, Alcatraz, City Skyline (Day and Night), etc. The pier for the tour is within walking distance of Pier 39, Ghirardelli, Sea Lions, etc. Highly Recommend.
Related Experiences
Operated by Red and White Fleet