Top San Francisco Sunset Cruises

There are plenty of high-quality sunset cruises in San Francisco. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise
• San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise
• 2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay
• San Francisco Premier Dinner Dance Cruise
• San Francisco Signature Dinner Cruise

That depends. Sunset cruises in San Francisco range from around US$50 to US$135. Options include a sail across San Francisco Bay for views of the city skyline and sunset dinner cruises with multi-course dinners and dancing.

Most sunset cruises in San Francisco last between 1.5 and three hours, depending on what’s included in the cruise. If you opt for a dinner cruise, expect to spend at least three hours on the water.

Most people dress casually in comfortable clothes and rubber-sole shoes on San Francisco sunset cruises. Nights can get chilly once the sun sets, so it’s a good idea to bring along a light jacket or sweater to stay warm while on the water.

Most cruises in San Francisco leave from the Port of San Francisco (known as the Embarcadero) on the city's picturesque waterfront. While waiting to board your boat, keep an eye out for sea lions—you can usually spot them from the pier.

There’s no shortage of beautiful places to watch the sunset in San Francisco, but the views from the bay at dusk are unmatched. San Francisco sunset cruises get you out on the water to experience the city’s sparkling skyline and more during photogenic golden hour.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in San Francisco aside from sunset cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Dinner Cruises

• Bus Tours

• Wine-Tasting Tours

• Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

• Bike Rentals

San Francisco sunset cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• California Sunset Cruise

• San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

• 2-Hour Sunset Sail on the San Francisco Bay

• San Francisco Premier Dinner Dance Cruise

Sunset cruises in San Francisco do not include hotel pick-up and drop-off, so check the departure location before booking. There are a variety of boat types available—you may prefer a smaller catamaran for a more intimate experience or a larger tour boat if you have kids who like to move around. Review the tour details for information about the planned cruising route if you'd like to ensure your cruise includes a pass under the Golden Gate Bridge.

Arrive early for your sunset cruise so you don't miss the departure—tours will not wait for latecomers. Wear a jacket, as it can get windy and chilly out on the water. If you tend to get seasick, consider taking medication before your tour and make sure you stay hydrated. Bring your camera to take lots of photos—the views of the bridges and Alcatraz are a highlight of any cruise.

Most sunset cruises in San Francisco do not include a meal, so choose a dinner cruise with a seated meal if you'd like a longer cruise. What each cruise offers as far as drinks and snacks will vary. Some provide a welcome drink or two, but you can pay for additional drinks. Cash bars are standard, and some offer minimal snacks for sale. Cruises usually include water and coffee.