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Ferry to Alcatraz
Alcatraz City Cruises: Tickets, Prices and the Ferry
There is no other way onto Alcatraz: Alcatraz City Cruises is the only ferry the National Park Service allows to dock at the island. Boats leave from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing on the Embarcadero, and tickets often sell out weeks ahead in summer.
At a glance
- Runs
- The only ferry authorized by the National Park Service to dock at Alcatraz
- Departs
- Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, The Embarcadero, San Francisco
- Frequency
- About every 30–40 minutes from 8:45 AM
- Open
- Every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Night tours Tuesday to Saturday.
- Tickets
- Online at alcatrazcitycruises.com, by phone (415-981-7625) or at the Pier 33 booth. On sale up to 90 days ahead.
- Refunds
- If you cancel at least 72 hours before departure
- Not allowed
- Bikes, skateboards, large bags, luggage, coolers and oversized backpacks
- Accessibility
- The prison is about 0.25 mile and 130 feet up from the dock; a tram (S.E.A.T.) serves visitors with mobility needs. No wheelchair loans.
- Parking
- None at Pier 33. Parking nearby.
Fares
Official fares| Ticket | Adult |
|---|---|
| Day TourChild 5–11 $29.15, senior 62+ $45.15, under 5 free | $47.95 |
| Night TourChild 5–11 $34.85, senior 62+ $55.25. Often sells out. | $59.65 |
| Behind the ScenesIncludes the Night Tour; plan 4–5 hours. Ages 12+ only. | $104.65 |
| Alcatraz & Angel Island comboBoth islands in one day | $88.00 |
Prices from the National Park Service fee page and Alcatraz City Cruises, including fees and taxes, checked September 28, 2026. There is no park entrance fee, so America the Beautiful passes don't apply.
Book early
The Park Service says tickets "may sell out several weeks ahead during summer months and around holiday weekends," and strongly recommends buying in advance. Night tours and Behind the Scenes go first.
Avoid fake tickets
Alcatraz City Cruises is the only authorized seller: "Street vendors do not sell genuine tickets," it warns. Buy on its website, by phone, at the Pier 33 booth, or through a reseller that clearly sells official tickets.
Getting to Pier 33
Pier 33 is on the Embarcadero, between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf. The F-line streetcar runs along the Embarcadero. There's no parking at the pier; the Park Service recommends public transportation.
Alcatraz and bay tours
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Alcatraz City Cruises: quick answers
How much is the ferry to Alcatraz?
$47.95 for an adult Day Tour and $59.65 for a Night Tour (2026, including fees). The ticket is the ferry and the island visit together; there's no separate park fee.
Can I take any other ferry to Alcatraz?
No. Alcatraz City Cruises is the only ferry allowed to dock at the island. Other bay cruises circle Alcatraz without stopping.
How far ahead should I book Alcatraz tickets?
Tickets go on sale 90 days ahead and can sell out several weeks ahead in summer and on holiday weekends. Book as soon as your date is fixed.
Official links
Facts checked September 28, 2026. thebay.app is independent and not affiliated with Alcatraz City Cruises. Sources: NPS fees, NPS FAQ, Alcatraz City Cruises, accessibility.