Escape from the Rock! Cruise around Alcatraz
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Embark on a 90-minute cruise along the San Francisco waterfront, under the Golden Gate Bridge and past Angel Island State Park before circling Alcatraz Island for an in-depth view of the prison. Take in the sights and sounds of the island as you listen to ex-guards and former inmates tell their stories of murder, mayhem, and mobsters on an audio tour with historical photos via your smartphone, tablet or other WiFi-enabled device. This ticket allows you to skip the box office line and go straight to the gate.
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
Wheelchair accessible, only on first deck
Children from 0 to 4 years old sail for free
Times are subject to change without notice
What To Expect
Pier 39
This 1.5-hour 'Escape from the Rock' cruise departs from Pier 39.
Golden Gate Bridge
It takes you under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island to see every angle of the former federal penitentiary, now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Options
Escape from the Rock
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes San Francisco Bay Boat
What‘s Included
"Straight to the gate" access
Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Alcatraz access / ticket
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
157 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Escape from the Rock
Maria B,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Escape from the Rock was an incredible way to experience Alcatraz from the water. Cruising around the island gives you a whole new perspective—dramatic views of the prison, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline all at once. The narration was informative and captivating, sharing fascinating stories about Alcatraz’s history and legendary escape attempts. The atmosphere on the boat, especially with the wind and the sounds of the bay, made the experience feel immersive and exciting. A fun, memorable, and unique way to see Alcatraz—highly recommend.
Fabulous trip, well worth the money
Meghan C,Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a fantastic trip! Boat ride was comfortable and fun. Choices to sit inside or outside. We loved the narration throughout the trip. It was a great mix of stories about Alcatraz (from prisoners and guards-similar to one you get when you do the tour on Alcatraz) as well as information about the city and history of San Francisco and the bridge. I would highly recommend this trip.
Miss
Ana M,Jul 27, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00Not to happy with the tour, maybe it was my mistake but we were looking for Alcatraz tour not around the island. I was ask to select the language and we choose Spanish and tour was in English.
Bay Cruise A Historical Hit
Sean P,Feb 12, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We really enjoyed the cruise around the San Francisco Bay. The narrative was great and it was fascinating to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. Also, the narration was very detailed on the historical points about San Francisco, Angeles Island, the events which shaped the history of the Bay, and Alcatraz. I received a wealth of information. Great Tour. I would definitely recommend it to other visitors.
Interesting
MartyM848,Jan 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00It cost $39 - San Francisco Bay Cruise. You can easily get the ticket a few minutes before departure. They offer to take a photo of you before you board. When you get off, you can buy it. Pleasant cruise. Audio recorded tour is useful but it's sometimes hard to hear and follow - it's on the loudspeaker. A transcript would be useful for people to follow. Good opportunity for photos. Can be windy and a hat and sunglassses are useful.
Very nice!
Mark P,Oct 20, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00The interviews with residents of the island, inmates, guards and such. Beautiful weather, nice boat.
Great time
Cristobal H,Oct 13, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Everything was fantastic, the weather was great, it was something wonderful for my family, the time on the boats was little, if you could stay longer, it would be great, their service is excellent, I recommend it to live new experiences with family or friends
Great Bay Option
ljungworld,Oct 11, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very comfy, efficient, and informative. We loved it, especially the painless booking and great staff. This is a great option for a short Bay cruise, thanks!
Alcatraz
Rita M,Sep 29, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Very nice tour. Educational gives just enough information . Beautiful day.breeze was blowing enjoyable
Great Cruise
Liliana P,Sep 28, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Great cruise!! Viator should sen vouchers vía email and not sms. I had not roaming available and almost miss the cruise. Thanks God the lady at the ticket office was so helpful and finally was able to retrieve them.
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Operated by Blue and Gold Fleet