San Francisco Tours

Everything you need to know about taking the ferry to Alcatraz Island from Pier 33

Ready to visit Alcatraz Island? The ferry from Pier 33 is the only way to get there. It is a 15-minute scenic ride across the Bay, with sweeping views of the city skyline and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Irrespective of the tour type (day/night) that you've booked, the ferry ride is your starting point, and a part of the experience.
Note: All Alcatraz tour tickets include round-trip ferry transportation to the island.

Alcatraz Island ferry schedule

All Alcatraz ferries exclusively depart from Alcatraz Landing Pier 33. You are requested to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure time to allow for smooth check in, security screening, and boarding.

Day tours (daily departures)

March 9–November 1, 2025:

  • The first departure from Pier 33 is at 8:20am and the last is at 3:50pm.
  • Returns from Alcatraz Island start at 9:05am and the last is at 6:35pm.

November 2, 2025–March 7, 2026

  • The first departure from Pier 33 is at 8:20am and the last is at 1:35pm.
  • Returns from Alcatraz Island start at 9:05am and the last is at 4:30pm.

Note: If you have a day tour ticket, you can return to the island on the last ferry back; before the night tours begin.

Night tours (Tuesday–Saturday)

March 9–November 1, 2025:

  • Departure from Pier 33 are at 5:55pm, 6:30pm, and 7:05pm.
  • Returns from Alcatraz Island are at 7pm, 8pm, 8:45pm, and 9:30pm.

November 2, 2025–March 7, 2026

  • The only departure is at 3:50pm. On select dates, there is an additional departure slot at 4:45pm.
  • Returns from Alcatraz Island are at 3:10pm, 3:50pm, 4:30pm, 6:30pm, and 7:30pm (on select dates).

Note: If you have a night tour ticket, note that return ferries are limited.

Directions to Pier 33

Pier 33 is located along San Francisco’s scenic Embarcadero waterfront—just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf and the Exploratorium.

Getting there

  • By public transport
    Choose between a bus and the MUNI metro, with stops near Pier 33.
  • By car
    There is no parking at Pier 33, but multiple paid parking lots are nearby. Charges vary from ~$20–40/day depending on duration and location.
  • On foot
    It is a pleasant stroll with views of the Bay, street performers, and cafes. The route is flat and accessible to visitors in a wheelchair.
Detailed directions to Pier 33

What to expect on the ferry ride

The ferry ride to Alcatraz lasts about 12–15 minutes, but it’s more than just a mode of transport—it’s part of the experience.

Boarding

Boarding begins around 15–30 minutes before departure. There are both indoor and outdoor seating areas—grab a spot on the upper deck if you want the best views and wind-in-your-hair photos. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arrive early for the top deck.

Sights along the way

As the ferry pulls away from Pier 33, keep your eyes on the San Francisco skyline as you glide past iconic spots like the Bay Bridge, Treasure Island, and Angel Island.
Pro tip: Stand on the right side of the ferry (starboard) on the way to Alcatraz for the clearest skyline and bridge views. On the return trip, flip to the left.

On-board facilities

  • Restrooms are available on the lower deck.
  • Snacks and drinks can be purchased at the small onboard concession stand.
  • Safety announcements play at the start of the ride; there’s also an optional intro video with closed captions.
  • Ferry staff are happy to answer questions or offer directions once you arrive.

Views from the ferry

Alcatraz Island view with ferry and San Francisco skyline, part of 2-day hop-on hop-off city tour.

Golden Gate Bridge

Spot the iconic red span cutting across the misty horizon. On clear days, it offers a postcard-worthy frame, while foggy ones lend it a moody, cinematic allure. Sunset shots are especially popular.

Golden Gate Bridge view from San Francisco Explorer Pass tour.
San Francisco bay bridge
Alcatraz Island with Angel Island in the background, San Francisco Bay.
Sea lions resting on docks at Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California.

Visitor tips

  • Arrive at Pier 33 at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to check in, pass security, and select the best seat on the ferry. The ferry departs promptly and doesn't wait for late arrivals.
  • Arrive on time since your ticket is only valid for the reserved time slot. Your ticket selects the outbound time only; you may pick any return ferry back.
  • For the outbound ride, the starboard (right) side gives the best views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz as you approach the island. For the return trip, swap sides.
  • If you’re prone to motion sickness, choose a seat near the center of the boat where movement is less noticeable, though the ride is typically smooth.
  • Seating is available both indoors and outdoors—outdoor seats give great views but require climbing steep steps and holding on during sways.
  • The ride can get windy or chilly, especially on the top deck, even in summer. Wear layers and bring a light jacket.
  • Snacks and drinks are available onboard via a snack bar, but eating is restricted to the dock area—no food is allowed on the island beyond that.
  • If you have a day-tour ticket, you can board any return ferry—no fixed time. Just be sure to check the posted schedule at the dock.

Frequently asked questions about the ferry boat to Alcatraz

It’s best to arrive 30–45 minutes early. Boarding usually begins 30 minutes before departure, and the queues can get long, especially for the first ferry of the day.

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