yacht san francisco dinner

Celebrate on San Francisco Bay

Private Yacht Charters  on San Francisco Bay!  Corporate events, birthdays, proms, grad nights & more!!!

Celebrate on the Bay

Don’t Wait To Book Your San Francisco Bay Yacht Charter

“We had a such a wonderful event! With so many choices on San Francisco Bay I chose YACHTSF.COM for our yacht charter and dinner cruise because they were so responsive and informative and helped me plan every step of the way. Thanks so much for your help.”

– Lyn Rubach

I never realized how spectacular the sights are on San Francisco Bay . This is an event I will remember forever.

San Francisco Bay’s fantastic views including San Francisco city skyline Golden Gate Bridge – Alkatraz – Sausalito Tiburon – Angel Island – Raccoon Straights the Bay Bridge – and more

Boat & Yacht charters, Dinner & Brunch cruises, High School Prom & Project Grad Events, Birthday & Corporate Events.

Begin your experience today.

LIFESTYLE. LEISURE. LUXURY.

Have Questions? Call Text Email

Private Yacht Experiences

Cruise or Docked Options. Add Food at Checkout!

Experiences from our Providers

Featured Experiences

More Experiences

Our current experience providers.

Chef Nobu Hito

Chef Sidney

Chef Brandon

Chef Jennifer

Have Questions?

(510) 550 5901

Subscribe to our Newsletter.

Subscribe today to stay up to date on new offerings, cruise experiences, flash deals and more!

A ONE-OF-A-KIND CULINARY EXPERIENCE. ON A YACHT & MORE.

Our team of professional chefs have curated unique culinary experiences all around SF Bay Area and Southern California! We bring unforgettable experiences on board luxurious yachts or in the comfort of your home!

WELCOME TO THE “CLUB!”

We’re not really a traditional yacht club in a sense where you have to pay a premium to join. We’re not really a club at all. Our goal is to make Japanese fine dining experiences more accessible, more inclusive. No membership required to dine with us!

OUR EXPERIENCES

Luxurious Yacht Experiences with Sushi Chef(SF)

Homakase-omakase in the comfort of your home, private yacht experience with sushi chef(newport), classic boat experience with sushi chef(alameda).

Book now and see how we can create the perfect experience for you!

• Top SF Attractions
• Fisherman's Wharf
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Lombard Street
• Ghirardelli Square
• Golden Gate Park
• Japanese Tea Garden
• Haight Ashbury
• San Francisco Beaches
• Conservatory of Flowers
• Botanical Garden
• The Embarcadero
• San Francisco Zoo
• California Academy of Sciences
• The Exploratorium
• de Young Art Museum
• Legion of Honor Art Museum
• Musée Mécanique
• 65 Things to Do in San Francisco
• Ride the Cable Cars
• SF Bay Cruises
• Bike the Bridge
• Go Car Tours
• Best Places to Stay in SF
• Chinese New Year
• Cherry Blossom Festival
• Christmas in SF
• Napa Wineries
• Angel Island
• Santa Cruz Boardwalk
• Whitewater Rafting
• Vintage Plane Rides
• Getting Around SF
• When to Visit SF
• Free Parking in SF
• Bad SF Travel Advice
• Covid Status
• Things to Do
• San Francisco Dinner Cruise

By  Karen

Updated September 16, 2023.

The San Francisco Dinner Cruise

Tips for a magical evening on the bay.

A San Francisco dinner cruise is a super way to enjoy the beautiful sights of San Francisco Bay at night.

As the sun sets, the City glows, and the lights begin to sparkle on the bridges.

What could be better than enjoying a gourmet meal, sipping your drinks, and being treated to San Francisco's best light show? 

I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through some of the affiliate links on this page. See  disclosure policy . This helps me provide all the free information on the site. Thank you!

Jump to my tips on booking the tour .

The SF Dinner Cruise

The dinner cruise, actually a dinner/dance cruise, leaves from San Francisco every night.

Guests are served a multi-course dinner while the large yacht sails around San Francisco Bay, past Alcatraz and Sausalito, out under the Golden Gate Bridge (usually), and then under the Bay Bridge as well.

They recommend business attire or above (no jeans) for the cruise; the guests were generally nicely-dressed on our trip.

Getting on the boat...

All the San Francisco dinner cruises leave from Pier 3 on the Embarcadero.

Pier 3 , also known as Hornblower Landing , is right near the Ferry Building and has its own parking lot ($10 parking fee for dinner cruise passengers). 

The dinner cruise leaves at 7:30 pm, but you can start boarding at 7:00. (Winter-time cruises board at 6:30 and sail at 7:00 pm.)

Tables are assigned by City Experiences, so there's no advantage in getting on early. 

Before you embark, there's the photo op outside (an optional $20, which you can purchase on board later, two prints, plus digital versions).

When you enter the boat, the staff checks your tickets and tells you your assigned table number.

For summer cruises, it's still daylight when you board, so the first hour or so you have a clear view of the sights you're sailing past: Alcatraz, Sausalito, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

You'll get to admire both the daylight SF skyline and the twinkling night version during the cruise...nice!

The City Experiences Yachts

All the San Francisco dinner cruises are provided by the City Experiences company. 

City Experiences is a respected company that has been doing bay cruises for decades, in San Francisco and other cities.

They are a first-class operation, and most people really enjoy their dinner cruise.

City Experiences is also the company that runs the ferries out to Alcatraz.

The dinner cruises, and their other bay excursions, depart from Pier 3, and their Alcatraz boats leave from Pier 33. 

First off, we were greeted by our server and given flutes of champagne (unexpected). Our salads were already on our table and we settled in with the sourdough bread and butter to study the menu choices.

The menu changes frequently, but there are four choices of entrees, plus two soup and two dessert choices. You can also add on a couple of appetizers (for an extra fee). The food was delicious and the atmosphere was elegant.

The waves were kind of rough the night we went, and the boat was rocking a bit in port, to the extent we started to worry about seasickness! Fortunately, once we were underway, the rocking died down and we could enjoy eating;-)

The Dancing

During dinner, a pianist was playing soft jazz, but after dinner a DJ set up on the dance floor and was playing a collection of good dance music, with selections from the 60's, 70's, and 80's music, and later.

But we were a quiet bunch that night and he couldn't get anyone out on the dance floor! From what I've read on Yelp and other reviews, it's usually a livelier crowd. I think the DJ was a little frustrated with us.

Friday and Saturday nights there's a live band (and probably livelier dance action!).

The views are the best part, in my opinion. San Francisco Bay is so beautiful, it never disappoints.

Seeing the sun setting beyond the Golden Gate, getting a look at Alcatraz, and sailing under the bridges is amazing.

We sailed under the eastern span of the Bay Bridge as the sun was going down, which gave the bridge a gorgeous golden glow.

It was still light enough to get a good look at Yerba Buena Island as we went by.

The Coast Guard maintains a post there with housing for it's members;  there are red-roofed buildings scattered here and there on the steep hillsides:  a cool place to live!

The small number of private citizens living on the island were evicted in 2015 to make way for hotel and condo developments, but nothing appears to be happening in that department.

This was a joint development plan with nearby Treasure Island; the flat island next door has had serious problems cleaning up the radioactive waste left by the Navy base that used to be there.

Tip: after dinner is a good time to get out on deck and admire some of the best city and bridge views after dark.

You can walk along the sides of the yacht and to the front where the views are super.

It is usually pretty chilly and windy after dark, even in summer, so wrap up!

The cruise route varies somewhat based on the weather and water conditions.

The typical route: about 75% of the time (they told me), the ship sails around the bay, passing Alcatraz and Angel Island, then goes out under the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Next, it sails past the city skyline, and goes under the western span of the Bay Bridge, past Yerba Buena Island, down to AT&T park, then circles back and returns to Pier 3.

Something cool: if there's a baseball game at AT&T Park, the boat will stop in McCovey Cove near the stadium for a bit, so you can watch them play.

McCovey Cove is the turn-around point for the cruise.

Each night, the captain checks with the harbor master before the cruise about the currents and wave conditions.

If the sea is too rough, they follow Plan B.

The night we went, they did Plan B: no trip out under the Golden Gate.

But we got the treat of sailing under the eastern span of the Bay Bridge (the one closest to Oakland). 

On our trip, we sailed around the bay, past Alcatraz and Angel Island, then went under the eastern span of the Bay Bridge (beautiful), past Yerba Buena Island, then down the bay to the turn-around point near AT&T Park.

We returned sailing past the city all lit up and under the western span of the Bay Bridge (the lit-up portion).

Bay Bridge Light Show

The Bay Bridge has its own light show, created in 2013 by artist Leo Vilareal to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Bay Bridge.

You get a good look at it during the dinner cruise, especially when you go underneath it on the way back to the pier.

The work is called the Bay Lights.   It just got upgraded in September 2023 with double the number of lights.

Now, around 50,000 LED lights are attached to both sides of the western span of the bridge, and they blink in random patterns generated by a computer (they say the pattern never repeats).

It's a beautiful addition to an already beautiful bridge.

See Bay Bridge Light show for more info.

Booking a Dinner Cruise

The dinner cruise in San Francisco sails Wednesday through Sunday; the main difference is the Friday and Saturday night cruises are 3 hours, and the other days are 2.5 hours.

The window tables are better, no question, although the large windows in the dining area give you good visibility from all the tables.

We went on a Thursday night in summer and were assigned a window table because there weren't that many people on the boat that night.

Tip: you can reserve a window table when you book the cruise .

Now that I've been on the cruise, I would reserve a window table just in case; cozier, more romantic and the view is better.

They also have some fun add-ons at checkout: a "romance package" with champagne, flowers, chocolate and more, plus a couple of other upgrades. 

Prices: Tickets start at $140 per person; more on Friday and Saturday nights. Sometimes discounted to $112.

To check availability and book the cruise , see Dinner Cruise . 

Getting to Pier 3

Public transportation.

BART: Pier 3 is only a short walk from the Ferry Building, so coming in on BART (get off at Embarcadero Station) puts you very close to Hornblower Landing.

Head towards the Ferry Building, then turn left.

From  Fisherman's Wharf: the  F-Line street car  that runs through Fisherman's Wharf stops near Pier 3 at Washington Street. See map of F-Line .

From Union Square: walk down Powell Street to Market Street. You can catch the F-line trolley on Market Street. Get off at Washington Street and walk back a little to Pier 3.

City Experiences has a convenient parking lot on Pier 3 . For guests on the dinner cruises, there is a flat fee of $10.

It's a safe place to park, since the lot has attendants present during the cruises. They don't do reservations, though.

It's unlikely to be full in the evening, but if that occurs, there are many other garages and lots in the area.

See my page on Embarcadero parking for a list, and descriptions of the best choices.

The Champagne Brunch Cruise

City Experiences also does a popular, weekend brunch cruise, with a lavish buffet and unlimited champagne and mimosas ;-)

They sail around the bay for two hours, past Alcatraz, Angel Island and Sausalito, and out under the Golden Gate Bridge.

This is a highly-rated cruise; looks like fun.  For more information, and booking , see Champagne Brunch Cruise .

More cruises to explore...

More to things to do....

Best things to do in San Francisco

Top San Francisco Attractions

Get the latest tips on visiting San Francisco.

SF Bus, BART & Cable Car Routes

Get Alcatraz tickets...

Home | Sitemap | Contact Me | About Me  

  Privacy Policy | Use Policy | Affiliate Disclosure

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

FogCitySecrets.com Inside-Guide-to-San-Francisco-Tourism.com

Copyright© 2009- . All rights reserved.

Private Yacht Charter in San Francisco

Just Dreaming private yacht charters offers a relaxing and luxurious setting for up to 49 passengers. Corporate events, private tours, or private cruises ... our charters are fully customizable.

• Plan a memorable celebration – weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements , memorials.
• Create the right atmosphere and activities to bring together your team, friends, or family.
• Craft the perfect menu – From fully catered to cooked by the galley crew.
• Choose a route for your private bay tour.
• Pick a themed cruise – sunrise brunches, sunset cocktails.
• Develop the perfectly themed beverage menu with cocktails, wine, beer, or delicious mocktails and sodas. Our savvy bartenders are on board & ready to serve you.

CORPORATE EVENTS

PRIVATE TOURS

PRIVATE CRUISES

To create your unique and memorable yacht charter experience, we walk through all the details with you.

Menu Options

Our chef will work with you to create the perfect menu for your event. Or, if you prefer outside catering, our event team will work with you to select the best options the San Francisco Bay area has to offer.

We work with you to pick the best date and time for your cruise to catch the perfect sunrise, sunset, full moon, or peak hours for watching wildlife. We recommend booking your charter at least six weeks in advance.

Whether you're celebrating a Birthday, Anniversary, Memorial or other special event, we would be happy to help with ideas to decorate including banners, table settings, floral arrangements, favors, and more.

We do have a full tended bar on board, let us know your beverage of choice, we would be happy to have the ingredients available on board for your cruise! For our non-alcoholic selections, we offer juices, classic sodas, bottled water and mocktails.

Just Dreaming Yacht Charters is conveniently located at Pier 40, right next to AT&T park in San Francisco. Passengers often take Cal Train, Muni or BART right to us. There is plenty of parking within walking distance. Famous landmarks you may see on your charter include:

• Golden Gate Bridge
• Bay Bridge Lights
• Jack London Square
• Treasure Island & Yerba Buena Island
• Horseshoe Cove  
• Tiburon and Belvedere  
• Angel Island
• Coast Guard Island

Some of the best occasions to throw an event on board Just Dreaming yacht include:

• Corporate events  - to celebrate a company milestone, team building, off-sites, board meetings, or to entertain clients.
• Weddings - receptions, rehearsal dinners, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or engagements.
• Memorials at sea.
• Birthday parties.
• Anniversaries, announcements, or special family events.
• Brunch, dinner , or  cocktail parties.
• Baseball games.

About Just Dreaming Yacht

Just Dreaming was originally commissioned in 1963 by master shipbuilders, Stephen Brothers of Stockton, California. Just Dreaming Yacht provides an elegant, luxurious setting for your event. Her wooden hull and classic lines are beautiful. Her smooth and comfortable ride gives you and your party a chance to relax. With a complete renovation in 2002, she has modern amenities and is gorgeous inside and out. The modernized galley and bathrooms have been redone as well as the sound system.

Just Dreaming Yacht is perfect for day trips or overnight excursions to the outer limits of the San Francisco Bay and Delta waterways. Her tastefully appointed interior features:

• Three state rooms
• Two bathrooms .
• A full galley .
• And, a luxurious Gatsby-era main salon.

Her forward and aft decks allow plenty of space for socializing and even dancing. She is perfect for gatherings up to forty people.

Team Dreaming

Our well trained, welcoming crew includes captains, deck hands, bartenders, and wait staff. Behind the scenes, we have a maintenance crew dedicated to providing a glamorous setting. And, our training department is there to ensure your safety.

The top ten reasons to join us for your own personal adventure with Just Dreaming:

The most spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay from the most elegant vessel.

The sunrises and sunsets from our gorgeous, luxurious salon.

The bay and ocean breezes fresh on your skin as you view the hills and skylines from our fully restored decks.

The marine wildlife – whales, sea lions, dolphins, and more with our crew there to make sure you don’t miss the best photo opportunities.

The most relaxing way to visit destinations around the bay, seated on the comfy chairs of the salon or sitting on one of our wooden deck chairs.

The elegance and intimacy of Just Dreaming Yacht, accommodating up to 49 guests.

The full bar, wine, and beer selection on board, along with special requests served by our skillful bartenders.

The menus created with care – made in our galley by our chefs or fully catered from one of the many delectable restaurants the San Francisco Bay Area has to offer.

The friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism of Team Dreaming crew.

The complete experience - creatively crafted by our top-notch crew.

Our Bay cruise party was so private and memorable. We could have booked a room at a restaurant or hotel, but this was so much more. It’s like a floating hotel with priceless views… like a mini vacation!

San Francisco, CA

My father spent a lot of time at sea while in the Marine Corp. He told us stories about the San Francisco Bay port and we believe he would have wanted us to memorialize him in this way from such an elegant and nostalgic vessel.

Phoenix, AZ

Thank you so much for making today a beautiful one. Your/your staff’s attention to detail was very apparent and everyone had compliments regarding the memorial. I believe my husband would have been quite happy.

You can escape the everyday and see the San Francisco Bay, on board our elegant Gatsby era inspired yacht.

Join us on Just Dreaming, one of the most luxurious and intimate private yacht charters in the San Francisco Bay Area.

TheBetterVacation.com

Everything about tourist attractions

San Francisco Dinner Cruise – tickets, prices, discounts, what to expect

A San Francisco luxury dinner cruise on the Bay is a unique and elegant way to experience the city’s iconic skyline and waterfront.

Guests board a luxury yacht and enjoy a gourmet dinner while taking in the sights of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and other famous landmarks.

The cruise typically includes live music, a full bar, and attentive service from a professional crew.

Dinner on the cruise can be a romantic experience or a great way to celebrate a special occasion with friends and family.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets for a Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay.

Top San Francisco Dinner Cruise Tickets

# San Francisco Dinner Cruise tickets # San Francisco City Explorer Pass

Table of contents

What to expect at the san francisco dinner cruise, where to book tickets, how do online tickets work, cost of san francisco dinner cruise tickets, san francisco dinner cruise tickets, from where do san francisco dinner cruise depart, san francisco dinner cruise timings, how long does san francisco dinner cruise take, best time to go to san francisco dinner cruise.

A San Francisco Bay dinner cruise is truly an unforgettable experience.

As you board the yacht, you will be greeted by the crew and given a warm welcome. 

You will then be escorted to your table to enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge while savoring a delicious dinner.

The dinner menu typically includes various options, for example – watermelon and baby arugula salad or signature seafood chowder. 

You can choose between steak, chicken, and vegetarian dishes in the main course. 

You can also indulge in some of the Bay’s best wines and signature cocktails (wine, beer, and cocktails are available for purchase).

As you dine, you will be entertained by live music played by a professional band or a DJ. 

The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening, a special occasion, or a corporate event.

During the cruise, you will pass by some of the most famous landmarks in the city, such as Alcatraz Island, Treasure Island, and the Ferry Building. 

You will also have the opportunity to see the city’s famous sea lions and even catch a glimpse of the Bay’s marine life, like dolphins and whales.

After dinner, you can stroll on the deck to take in the beauty of the city lights or dance to the music. 

Tickets for San Francisco Bay Dinner Cruise are available online and at the office of the agency providing the tour..

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the attraction.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters. 

Because San Francisco Dinner Cruise sells limited tickets, they may sell out during peak days.

Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

Visit the ticket  booking page for San Francisco Dinner Cruise on the Bay , select the preferred date and number of tickets, and buy the tickets immediately.

Once you purchase tickets, they get delivered to your email address.

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket. 

Show the e-ticket on your smartphone at the entrance and walk in.

Please carry a valid ID with you.

Box: To ensure that your group can be seated together, please make just one reservation for your entire party. If your group members make separate reservations, the activity provider cannot guarantee that you will be seated together.

The Luxury Dinner Cruise tickets cost US$168 for all visitors aged 4 years and above.

Children up to the age of 3 years can enjoy the cruise ride on a free ticket.

On the booking page, you can also select the Luxury Brunch Cruise option, which offers a similar experience to the dinner cruise. The Luxury Brunch Cruise tickets are priced at US$122 for guests aged 13 years and above. Kids aged 4 to 12 years receive a US$24 discount and pay only US$98 for entry. Infants up to 3 years old can enjoy the cruise on a free ticket. 

Back to Top

The tickets to this cruise are perfect for a date night.

This tour also allows you to opt for a luxury brunch option if you are not looking for a night cruise.

Marvel at the sun setting as the city lights twinkle from the Bay Bridge to the Golden Gate while enjoying a 3-course sit-down meal 

The meal includes appetizers, salad, a choice of entrée, and dessert, with DJ entertainment present onboard.

Unlimited coffee, tea, or iced tea will be at your disposal, while beer and wine will be available for purchase.

The Luxury brunch cruise does not have a DJ but instead a live music arrangement while also providing the perk of free-flowing mimosas and sparkling wine.

Ticket Price

Dinner Cruise

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$168 Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$168 Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Brunch Cruise

Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$122 Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$98 Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free

Save time & money! Buy a San Francisco City Explorer Pass and Choose 2 to 5 attractions and tours from over 25 activities. Visit the Aquarium of the Bay, go on a Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Tour, or take a Francisco Bay Cruise and many more!

Meeting Point: 101 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA. Get Directions .

You can take public transport or a personal vehicle to reach the San Francisco Dinner Cruise meeting point.

The nearest bus stop is The Embarcadero & Ferry Building (available buses: LOWL), a 2-minute walk to the meeting point.

Another bus stop is Don Chee Way & Steuart St (available buses: LOWL, NOWL). 

From here, take a cab or hire a taxi to reach the meeting point.

One more bus stop near the meeting point is Market St & Steuart St (available buses: 14, 14R, NBUS, NOWL), 800 meters (0.5 miles) from the meeting point. 

You can take a cab or hire a taxi or take a 10-minute walk.

By Light Rail

The nearest light rail station is The Embarcadero & Ferry Building (available light rails: F), just a 2-minute walk to the meeting point. 

The nearest ferry terminal is San Francisco Ferry Building (available ferries: HB, OA, P41, RCH, SEA, VJO) at a 5-minute walking distance.

Get in your car, open Google Maps , and proceed to your destination as you see fit.

Several parking spots are available in the

The San Francisco Dinner Cruise is provided on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The cruise begins at 7 pm on Friday and Saturday and starts at 5 pm on Sunday.

The Luxury brunch cruise is provided on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

The brunch cruise starts at 11.30 am on each day.

The San Francisco Dinner Cruise lasts for about two to three hours. 

The brunch cruise lasts for 2 hours, while the dinner cruise usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours.

You must reach the San Francisco Dinner Cruise meeting point 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.

When you arrive early, you can settle down properly.

Since seating is on a first-come-first-serve basis, so arrive early to take a seat of your choice.

Popular attractions in San Francisco

# Alcatraz Island # San Francisco Zoo # California Academy of Sciences # San Francisco MoMA # Monterey Bay Aquarium # San Francisco aquarium # Exploratorium # De Young Museum # San Francisco Bus Tours # Madame Tussauds # San Francisco Bay Cruise # San Francisco Ghost Tour # The Tech Interactive # San Francisco Dinner Cruise # SFO Go Car Tour # Legion of Honor Museum # Walt Disney Family Museum # Museum of 3D Illusions # 7D Ride Experience

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Check out all the things to do in San Francisco

This article was researched & written by

Akanksha Choudhary

Her travel list includes many must-see locations and adventures spread worldwide. At the slightest opportunity, she packs her bags and heads off to different places to discover new cultures. Since she doesn't like surprises during travel, she always prepares ahead and adheres to schedules. She favors vacation spots where it is possible to have fun without spending a fortune. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Brussels, Istanbul

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

FireStorm Internet runs this website to provide the most accurate and up-to-day information about tourist attractions.

Our Address

FireStorm Internet, 203, 30C, Bollineni Hillside, Perumbakkam Main Road, Nookampalayam, Chennai, India. Pin Code: 600126

About Us The Team Contact Us Affiliate Disclaimer Content Policy HTML Sitemap Privacy Policy Terms of Service

Helicopter Tours Food Tours Ghost Tours Stadium Tours Hop On Hop Off Tours Zoo Tickets Madame Tussauds Linq High Roller Summit One Vanderbilt

© 2024 FireStorm Internet

Dinner Cruises to Book in San Francisco, CA

Enjoy stunning subsets and delightful cuisine

Trusted by over 500k customers

Top Dinner Cruises in San Francisco, CA

Indulge in the epitome of luxury with dinner cruises in San Francisco. As you dine on delectable cuisine aboard a private yacht, you can enjoy the city's charm illuminated against the night sky. At Tagvenue, we have a wide selection of exclusive boats, each promising an enchanting voyage through the city's iconic sights, including the renowned Golden Gate Bridge and the bustling Bay Bridge. Take advantage of the opportunity to elevate your special occasion to new heights by booking a dinner cruise in San Francisco!

Entire Boat

75' papillon yacht.

• NEXT » NEXT PAGE »

FAQs about Dinner Cruises in San Francisco, CA

How much does it cost to rent a boat for a dinner cruise in san francisco.

The cost of renting a boat for dinner cruises in San Francisco varies depending on the size of the ship, amenities provided, and duration of the cruise. However, generally, prices range from $200 to $350 per hour . Additionally, you can find some boat rentals charging per session , which starts at around $3,500 . It's best to contact specific boat rental companies in San Francisco to get accurate pricing information based on your particular needs and preferences. (All data from Tagvenue.)

What is the duration of a typical dinner cruise in San Francisco?

The duration of a typical dinner cruise in San Francisco can vary depending on the company and package you choose. However, most dinner cruises in San Francisco last around 2-3 hours . During this time, you can enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the city's illuminated skyline!

Are there large boats available for dinner cruises in San Francisco?

Yes, you can find boats for dinner cruises for a large number of people in San Francisco. These vessels provide a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience, allowing each guest to relax and fully enjoy their evening on the water. For example, the Cabernet Sauvignon Yacht ,  a four-deck luxury yacht, is a fantastic choice. It provides a dining area that can accommodate up to 220 guests, making it perfect for large cruising events.

Used by over 500,000 really smart customers

Found an amazing venue within 10 minutes of looking! Really happy :) Charlotte Greaves - Baby Shower

I came across Tag Venue completely by accident and Sarah was unbelievably helpful in saving me valuable time and conducting the search on my behalf. I would not hesitate to use Tag Venue again. Natalie Moores - Corporate Event

It was really easy to find a wide range of potential locations, and I could contact many different venues with ease. Tagvenue allowed me to be very dynamic when organising my event. Would definitely use again! Sophie Ward - Birthday Party

People also search for

Dinner cruises in other cities.

Experience the Bay

Cabernet sauvignon, corporate events.

• All Occasions

Student Cruises

Public cruises, meet the fleet.

Commodore Cruises & Events

Welcomes you aboard.

Our fleet of luxury yachts can be privately chartered for your special event. The sights of the San Francisco Bay offer a unique backdrop for you and your guests, providing a memorable experience. Check with your Sales Event Managers for various boarding locations.

Our yachts cruise year-round as we tailor to suit your budget and custom fit your needs. Call or email today!

Corporate Events!

Product Releases Client Entertainment Meetings Team Building Fundraisers Parties

Your dream wedding aboard Northern California’s most romantic yachts.

Inspirational venues for your corporate meetings and parties.

Special Occasions

Transform any occasion with our elegant yachts.

Year-round holiday or special themed event cruises.

Students will never forget their Prom, College Formal, Dorm Party, Ect.

As the premier yacht rental company on San Francisco Bay, we enjoy a stellar reputation among our valued customers and we’d love to plan your next milestone event.

READ MORE ›

Send us your question(s) or message you have for us.

• Event Type *
• Question/Message If inquring about event please include your desired date and estimated number of guests
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Upcoming Events

Celebrate and enjoy the finest waterfront views, service and entertainment., view upcoming events here..

OUR FLEET … from a different point of view! You are cordially invited to attend our Open House Event, Meet The Fleet. We host Meet The Fleet on select Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on our Luxury Yacht, the Cabernet Sauvignon, dockside at our home port in Alameda.

• Search Experiences
• Manage Booking
• Phone # SMS #
• My Offers 5

City Cruises – San Francisco

San francisco city cruises, host your group event on the water.

Recommended Experiences in San Francisco

What people are saying, san francisco city cruises blog.

Book a Bachelor Party with the Boys in Berkeley

On the San Francisco Bay in Northern, California lies the welcoming and unique city of Berkeley. While a smaller city, it has an “international reputation,” according to Visit Berkeley, and

Book Your Bachelorette Party in Beautiful Berkeley

Gorgeous green surroundings, amazing arts and culture, plus a diverse food scene make a Berkeley wedding a beautiful event for everyone in attendance. But why stop there? Hosting all pre-wedding

Here Comes the Easter Bunny in Berkeley

Spring is in the air and activities are in full swing in the San Francisco Bay area. There are Easter egg hunts, exciting bunny brunches, train rides, festivals, and more

Plan an Unforgettable Bridal Shower in Berkeley

Picture this: Gentle breezes, stunning views, and the shimmering waters of Berkeley, California. It’s not just a dream – it’s the perfect setting for your unforgettable bridal shower on the

Fun Bachelorette Party Ideas in San Francisco

Before heading down the aisle, there’s a very important rite of passage that takes place for the bride. No, we’re not talking about the engagement party, bridal shower, or rehearsal

Your Romantic Rehearsal Dinner is Waiting for You in San Francisco

San Francisco, often known as the city by the bay, will take your breath away. Bustling yet charming, this world-class city on the water is as exciting as it is

Bridal Shower in San Francisco

Golden Gate City. Sunset City. City by the Bay. No matter what nickname you prefer for San Francisco, the description of the destination remains the same: perfect weather, iconic landmarks,

Elevate Your Rehearsal Dinner in Berkeley

What’s one way to guarantee your wedding will be a success? A traditional run-through beforehand, followed by an enticing meal to reward everyone involved. That’s the goal of rehearsal dinners,

Book Your Fairy-Tale Wedding in Berkeley

No place sets the mood for love and romance quite like Northern California. Between the serene settings of Napa Valley, the majestic vibes of the Redwood Forest, and the picturesque

Say “I do” at the Wedding of Your Dreams in San Francisco

If your dream wedding involves the iconic skyline of San Francisco and the serene waters of the Pacific Ocean, then look no further than City Cruises. The “City by the

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top cruises in san francisco.

• San Francisco Dinner Cruises
• San Francisco Holiday Cruises
• San Francisco Cocktail Cruise

More about the best boat tours in San Francisco

Are private boat charters in san francisco available.

• Private Boat Charters in SF
• San Francisco Weddings on the Water
• San Francisco Corporate Cruises
• SF Bay Party Cruises

Which landmarks and famous sights can you see on a San Francisco cruise?

Water & boat attractions in san francisco.

Signature Lunch Cruise | Premier Brunch Cruise | Signature Dinner Cruise | Premier Dinner Cruise | Fleet Week Air Show Lunch aboard the San Francisco Belle | Rock the Yacht Cruise | San Francisco Belle Premier Dinner Cruise | Alcatraz Day Tour | Premier Dinner Cruise | Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour | Bay Discovery Cruise | Alcatraz Night Tour

Things to do near San Francisco

Things to do in Sacramento | Things to do in Berkeley | Things to do in Long Beach | Things to do in Marina del Rey | Things to do in San Diego | Things to do in Newport Beach

Recommended for San Francisco

Big Bus – Classic Tour | Muir Woods Redwood Forest and Sausalito Tour | Redwoods and California Wine Country Tour | Yosemite and Giant Sequoias One Day Tour | Monterey and Carmel One Day Tour

Trending Attractions

San Diego: USS Midway | Premier Dinner Cruise | Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour | Bay Discovery Cruise | Long Beach: Aquarium of the Pacific Admission Ticket | Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure | San Diego Maritime Museum Admission | CODZILLA Thrill-boat Ride | Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour | New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise | Toronto Sightseeing Harbour Tour | Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour | New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise | Depths & Discovery of the 1000 Islands Cruise | 1000 Islands Boldt Castle Stopover Cruise | Voyage to Niagara Falls Boat Tour

Holiday Experiences in San Francisco

4th of July Premier Brunch Cruise | 4th of July Premier Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise | Valentine’s Brunch Cruise | Mother’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise on the San Francisco Belle | Labor Day Lunch Cruise | Christmas Day Dinner Cruise | New Year’s Eve Premier Brunch Cruise | Holiday Signature Dinner Cruise | Mother’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise | Belle of the Ball Holiday Dinner Cruises | Thanksgiving Premier Dinner Cruise | Christmas Day Premier Dinner Cruise | Easter Signature Brunch Cruise | Father’s Day Premier Dinner Cruise

Be the first to get offers and news

Shopping cart, find your experience.

+1.510.868.2806

[email protected]

Luxury Private Yacht Charters

Experience the marquis life.

Spectacular Proposals, Anniversaries, Celebrations

Private Sunset Cruise w/Private Chef,  multi-course culinary dinner

(local sourced | global delicacies | molecular gastronomy)

BottleRock 2024 Weekend

on Your Private Yacht

A BottleRock Home like none other.

Only luxury private super yacht at Napa for BottleRock weekend. Cruise-In / Cruise-out options too.

La Onda 2024 Weekend

A La Onda Residence like none other.

Only luxury private super yacht at Napa for La Onda weekend. Cruise-In / Cruise-out options too.

Cruise the Bay, Your Way

Private, Luxury Cruises on and around the San Francisco Bay as you like it...

Breakfast? | Brunch? | Lunch? | BYO?

Napa Wineries, Napa River,

SF Bays and City Lights

SF to Napa and back!  In the same day, on an overnight or make it a weekend!

Boujee Transfer

SFO/OAK/SJC <-> Napa

The luxury cruise-transfer option to travel and dine one-way between the San Francisco Bay Area airports and docks to/from Napa, Petaluma or Benicia

July 4, 2024 Sunset Dinner and Fireworks Cruise

Private Golden Gate Sunset | SF Bay Cruise | Private Chef Dinner under canopy of City lights and Fireworks!

2024 San Francisco Fleet Week | Blue Angels 

Book Now for Navy Birthday Day Oct 13

Contact us  Now to Reserve Oct 11, 12

Check out our 2023 Airshow Pix here

Fleet Week | Blue Angels | Air shows | Birthday of the Navy

2024 Dec New Years Eve

Private Golden Gate Sunset | SF Bay Cruise | Private Chef Dinner with City Lights backdrop and NYE Fireworks!

San Francisco Dinner Cruise

About this activity.

Smartphone tickets accepted

• Your booking is confirmed instantly
• This activity is in your language

Experience Highlights

Enjoy an exclusive, luxurious and unforgettable evening as you join this San Francisco dinner cruise .

You'll watch the sunset aboard a spectacular yacht, with music to dance to, celebrate and make memories , while sipping a glass of wine with the Californian skyline in the background.

You'll enjoy a delicious four-course dinner and breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area and the Golden Gate Bridge .

• Stroll along the shores of San Francisco Bay for an unforgettable evening.
• Soak up the energy of the Californian sunset on board the cruise while enjoying an exquisite four-course dinner .
• Enjoy panoramic views of iconic San Francisco landmarks such as the Bay Area and the Golden Gate Bridge.

What’s included

• San Francisco cruise tour
• Four-course dinner
• Alternative vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu available.
• Beverage (hot or cold tea, coffee and water)

Select date and time

Keep in mind you need to arrive 30 minutes before start

Step by Step

This San Francisco dinner cruise will take you on an unforgettable experience, where you can enjoy all the natural wonders that surround the Bay Area.

You will have the opportunity to celebrate any special occasion with a luxurious and exclusive evening aboard a boat along the California coastline.

You'll sample a delicious four-course dinner with drinks from a varied and elegant menu to suit all tastes, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

During this cruise, you'll be dazzled by the region 's unmissable colourful sunset , which is best appreciated as you cruise the waters of the bay by yacht.

You can dance, sip a glass of wine and take in the most privileged panoramic views of must-see sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay .

• I Ivy 5 (0 Reviews) This is a lovely way to spend a birthday, anniversary or just a getaway for a few hours! The bay cruise is very relaxing and exciting at the same time.
• H Hazel 5 (0 Reviews) My husband and I were celebrating our anniversary and they made sure we received the best possible service.
• D Daphne 5 (0 Reviews) I had a wonderful and meaningful experience, definitely a must!
• A Aurora 4 (0 Reviews) The cruise had three levels and was beautiful. I would definitely come again

Departure and Return

Departure point, other things you should know.

• Wheelchair accessible
• The dress code is black tie, luxury or business casual.
• Anti-virus protection measures are applied
• Shared seating is not guaranteed if guests in the same group book separately.
• Make a single booking to ensure proximity or make arrangements with the cruise provider (contact details on the voucher).
• You should arrive 30 minutes before departure time.
• The trip lasts 3 hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The rest of the week it lasts 2.5 hours.

Cancellation Policy

Other activities in san francisco.

San Francisco

San Francisco Bridges Cruise

San Francisco Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Select your language

Argentina (USD)

Brasil (USD)

Colombia (USD)

Denmark (DKK)

Deutschland (EUR)

España (EUR)

Finland (EUR)

France (EUR)

Italia (EUR)

México (USD)

Nederland (EUR)

Norway (NOK)

Sweden (SEK)

United States (USD)

United Kingdom (GBP)

Canada (CAD)

Portugal (EUR)

Japan (JPY)

Malaysia (MYR)

United Arab Emirates (AED)

India (INR)

A Tradition of Yachting Excellence

Current Operations at the Sfyc

The Bar and Galley are open to Members and their guests who are five years of age and older, who are eligible to be vaccinated, and who provide proof of full vaccination (not including a booster at this time). All Members and their guests in the Bar and Galley must wear face masks at all times except when actively eating and drinking. Unvaccinated children older than two years of age and under five years of age are also welcome but they must wear a face mask at all times except when actively eating and drinking.

Outdoor dining is available for all persons, including those who are not vaccinated.

Reciprocal club privileges are suspended at this time.

For the month of January, all Meetings will be conducted virtually, and all large in-person events have been canceled.

In mid-January, the San Francisco Yacht Club Board of Directors will review Marin County data and the calendar of events for February and adjust these protocols as appropriate. This process will be repeated monthly until no longer required.

If you are a Member and have not already done so, please register your proof of vaccination with the Club through our website or mobile app. This simple step will make your access to the Club much easier.

REGISTER YOUR VACCINATION STATUS

The Oldest Yacht Club On The West Coast

Located on the shore of Belvedere Cove, The San Francisco Yacht Club is one of the leading yacht clubs in North America. Known for its sublime setting, superb harbor and community of members dedicated to life on the water, The SFYC operates year-round. The Club's facilities include docks, a dry-sail area, a Clubhouse, Regatta Center and Cove House, completed in 2020

The San Francisco Yacht Club

A community that celebrates life on the water

A vibrant calendar of local races and national & international championships

Youth Sailing

Training exceptional athletes and instilling a passion for the sport

A beautiful setting and a home away from home for our members

A dedicated community with a passion for on-water activity

Explore The Club

The auxiliary.

The SFYC Auxiliary, comprised of female members, is proud of its 68 years of service to The San Francisco Yacht Club. Founded in 1953, this group provides social opportunities for Members and their families, and facilitates fundraising activities to benefit Youth Sailing and Club projects.

Founded in 1869, the San Francisco Yacht Club is the oldest yacht club on the West Coast. The original Clubhouse, located in San Francisco, was the first yacht club west of the Mississippi. Today, over 150 years and several new locations later, SFYC is in beautiful Belvedere and remains rooted in its deep maritime history.

The Cove House

Completed in 2020, this first-class events facility offers expansive rooms and stunning harbor views. Members and guests utilize this space for regattas, programs, parties and private events.

Dining At The Sfyc

Our full-service restaurant and bar offer everything from fine dining to family-friendly favorites. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate of Marin County, members and guests enjoy dining in our formal dining room, on our Corinthian Deck and along our Cove House Lawn.

The San Francisco Yacht Club is a proud member of

Member Login

 The Premiere San Francisco Luxury Yacht Cruise

Book your wedding , private party , corporate event , or memorial , on the empress luxury yacht.

Set Sail On Your Next Memorable Event Aboard The Empress

PRIVATE PARTIES

CORPORATE EVENTS

Indulge in Extravagant Treatment

At Empress Luxury Yacht Cruises we treat you and your guests like royalty!

A Bay Cruise Is Ideal for Any Occasion. Whether you’re hosting a Wedding , Corporate Event , Memorial or a Private Party for any occasion including Birthdays , Anniversaries , Graduations , Engagements , plus Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, you want it to be special. Our San Francisco Bay Luxury Yacht Cruise on The Empress is sure to impress! Your guests will be talking about it for years to come as one of the most memorable and unique parties they've ever attended! Check out what North Bay Biz Magazine has to say about us!

If you’re that person who leaves everything until the last minute yet you want your event to be amazing, we have you covered. At Empress Events , Captain Gerry , Captain Arlan , Chef Chris , Event Planner Deborah and their team will make it incredibly easy for you so you can relax and enjoy your cruise. And this boat does not have to stop at midnight if you wish to go later.

All the perks and none of the hassle!

“ Gerry took the boat all the way underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, providing a view I think very few of our guests had ever seen. ”

Witness the Rarest of Views

The San Francisco skyline is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and nowhere is that more self-evident than from the San Francisco Bay. As you cruise out past Alcatraz and Angel Island, and under the Golden Gate Bridge , you will see the most spectacular views in the Bay Area and many say, one of the best views in the world !

“ The view was absolutely stunning! The Bay Brdige, the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Skyline, the yacht... I mean everything was incredible! ”

Luxuriate in Majestic Finery

You’ll be cruising in style on The Empress!

Amenities Include:

90-foot Luxury Yacht

Two Floors of Spacious Dining

Five-Star Cuisine by Private Chef Chris

Full-Size Kitchen

Top-Shelf Bars

Hardwood Dance Floor

State-of-the-Art Sound System

San Francisco’s Best DJ

High-Resolution Flat-Screen TVs

Satellite TV and DVD Player

Two Non-Polluting Engines certified by State of California

“ The décor was elegant and comfortably accommodated our 80 guests. Moreover, the staff, the service and the food was stellar! ”

“ Catering on site makes for a seamless event whether you’re here to celebrate a Corporate Launch, a Holiday Party, a Birthday Gathering, Weddings, Rehearsal Dinner, or a relaxing Sunset Cruise. ”

Delight at the Succulence of Your Royal Banquet on this Yacht Cruise

These are a few examples from the Empress menu:

Appetizers:

Wrapped Scallops

Rosemary Shrimp

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Avocado Spring Rolls

Petite Lobster Roll

Oysters Rockefeller

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Chardonnay Chicken Salad

Fillet Mignon

Roasted Prime Rib

Chicken Paillard

Beef Mushroom Marsala

Blackened Mahi Mahi

Cranberry Stuffed Pork Loin

Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade

Spinach Ricotta Ravioli

Consider These Regal Extras

Boarding Ports at SF Pier 40, Berkeley Marina, Richmond, Jack London Square . We can also go to private Yacht Clubs with an invitation.

Room for you and your 150 VIP guests (number of guests restricted during COVID)

UN-stressful party planning using Deborah’s secret strategies

Connections with the most exclusive vendors in the Bay Area

Your special cruise hosted by Captain Arlan , and you may even get a rare tour of the restricted Captain’s Deck.

“ We stumbled across Empress while trying to find alternatives to the “other” yachts, and I’m so glad we did! They were flexible and let us pick and choose. ”

Meet Captain Gerry of The Empress

Appraise Your Hand-Picked Crew. From hundreds of applicants, each attendant of The Empress is chosen with special care by Captain Gerry . Then they are put through their paces, trained on proper etiquette and procedures. The result? An ever-vigilant crew that will make sure you and your guests have a safe and amazing time!

“ Great crew, food, ambiance! Fantastic and Unforgettable! ”

Your Event Planner Extraordinaire

Meet Deborah Birmingham

Deborah Birmingham started with Empress Events as the Sales Director and Event Planner Extraordinaire in 2010. She was born in Boston, Massachusetts to British parents who moved back to the U.K. where she grew up. Graduated in English Literature and History, then worked in publishing and editorial departments for Yachting World Magazine and Thoroughbred and Classic Cars with IPC Business Press before furthering her career at Christie’s of London in their classic car department. Came back to the U.S. in 1990 and worked in San Francisco for a P.R. and publishing company before branching out into the sales and hospitality business.

“ The crew are like ninjas with the cleaning. I never saw them. ”

Ensure Your Special Requests are the Only Thing Your Guests Talk About

We do our best to accommodate your every request at Empress Events. Let us know if you want unusual foods, top-shelf liquors, or if you have eccentric instructions. If you want something special, please ask us. Whatever your unique requirements, you have but to inquire and we'll jump through hoops to make it a reality.

Luxury Yacht Photo Gallery

Are You Ready to Set Sail on Your Next Adventure?

“ Absolutely bar none the best choice we made for our wedding. Everything went like clockwork, without a hitch. The Food was outstanding in quality and presentation. The premium liquor package was just that, premium. ”

“ Really, no one else compares. Their yacht is beautifully maintained, they are incredibly flexible, and they have great prices. Our wedding day aboard the Empress yacht was absolutely beautiful. ”

“ The only thing we would have changed would have been to add another hour to our cruise. People were having so much fun, and the views of the Bay were a spectacular backdrop to the event, no one wanted it to end. ”

Will you gamble with an alternative charter service and risk your once-in-a-lifetime event? Or will you choose Empress Luxury Yacht Cruises and guarantee your guests the royal treatment?

San Francisco: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay

About the activity

Step aboard a cruise in San Fransico and indulge in a buffet lunch or dinner as you cruise around the Bay. See Alcatraz and marvel at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge as you pass underneath it.

• Free cancellation This activity is non-refundable.
• Instant confirmation & Mobile tickets Receive your ticket right away. Use your phone or print your voucher.
• Non-guided activity Live and audio guiding is not available.
• Host or greeter English
• Duration 2-2.5 hours
• Cruise ticket
• Lunch or dinner buffet
• Unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks
• Wine, beer, and cocktails (available for purchase)
• Savor the flavors of a variety of culinary delights during a fresh buffet meal
• Enjoy unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks as you relax and unwind on board
• Spot some of the most iconic sights of San Francisco Bay from on the water
• Choose between an afternoon lunch cruise or a nighttime dinner cruise
• Take advantage of a great option for touring the bay with friends and family

Description

Choose between a buffet lunch or dinner cruise on San Francisco Bay. Be mesmerized as the city lights glide past and experience unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge and many other San Francisco landmarks. Enjoy music and dancing on the evening dinner cruise. Hop on board and prepare to enjoy a small-plate buffet from three food stations, including Latin foods, carved roast beef, a mashed potato bar, local vegetables, Italian pasta, fresh breads, and desserts. Sample Lunch Menu: Salads (All salads include fresh bread and butter)• Field green salad – tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, ranch dressing, balsamic dressing• Kale quinoa salad - quinoa, roasted red pepper, spinach, lemon oregano vinaigrette Main Course• Honey sesame chicken - scallions, Fresno chilies• Oven-roasted flounder - spicy tomatoes, white bean ragu• Baked ziti pasta - aged Reggiano parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, spinach cream sauce• Root vegetable fricassee - Idaho potatoes, broccoli, grape tomatoes, gremolata, cauliflower coconut cream sauce (some items are available upon request) Complements• Roasted broccoli - toasted garlic, chili flakes• Mashed potatoes - Idaho potatoes, roasted garlic Dessert• Signature dessert station - cakes, brownies, seasonal Fruit (some items contain nuts) Sample Dinner Menu: Comfort Food• Baked potato bar - bacon, green onion, cheese, sour cream• Mac & cheese bar - bacon, green onion, cheese, sour cream• BBQ pulled pork sliders - rolls, assorted mustards• Spicy red cabbage slaw• Three bean chili• Classic Caesar salad International Favorites• Fried plantains - sour cream• Asian spiced greens - bay shrimp, sesame dressing• Vegetarian potstickers - vinegar soy dipping sauce• Chicken cacciatore - tomatoes, bell pepper, garlic, white wine• Seafood Newburg - mushrooms, white fish, calamari, bay shrimp• White rice• Mediterranean vegetable sauté Desserts• Assorted sweet treats• Fresh fruit

• Children under 3 are free, however, please make sure you select the free child ticket option when booking to ensure admittance on the cruise
• The dress code is upscale casual to business casual
• The menu is subject to change
• In order to guarantee that your group can be seated together, please make sure to make just one reservation for your entire party. If members of your group make separate reservations, the activity provider cannot guarantee that you will be seated together

Buffet Lunch

Buffet dinner, reviews & ratings, top 5 similar bay cruises & boat tours in san francisco.

San Francisco: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

Sail along San Francisco's waterfront, under the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and around notorious Alcatraz Island. Discover San Francisco's history via audio commentary, available in 16 languages.

• 1 hour • Guiding available • Available today

San Francisco: Bridge to Bridge Cruise

Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and Oakland Bay Bridge on a beautiful 1.5-hour boat ride along San Francisco Bay. See Alcatraz and Sausalito up close as you learn all about San Francisco.

• 1.5 hours • Guiding available • Available today

San Francisco: California Sunset Boat Cruise

Enjoy spectacular views in a casual and fun atmosphere. Sail past Alcatraz, around Angel Island, along Tiburon and Sausalito, and under the Golden Gate Bridge.

• 2 hours • Available today

San Francisco: Skip-the-Line 1-Hour Bay Cruise by Boat

Cruise along San Francisco’s waterfront and relive the 150 years of history. Sail underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, get an up-close look at Alcatraz and gaze at the beautiful San Francisco skyline.

• 1 hour • Skip the line • Guiding available • Available today

San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour with Bay Cruise

Enjoy two essential San Francisco experiences in one with an Alcatraz entry ticket and a sightseeing cruise on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy round-trip ferry transportation to Alcatraz and an audio guide.

• 4 hours • Skip the line • Guiding available • Available tomorrow

Frequently Asked Questions

Prices & booking.

• Adult 13-99 years { clearTimeout(timer); timer = setTimeout(function(){ window.livewire.find('H16bD3KqTWDgUP7NKsu1').emit('personChanged', value, 'adult'); }, 1000) })"> 0 ? 1 : 0" class="relative -mr-10 inline-flex justify-center items-center w-10 h-10 rounded-full bg-white text-gray-900 text-sm hover:text-gray-500 focus:z-10 focus:outline-none focus:shadow-outline-blue active:bg-gray-100 active:text-gray-700 transition">
• Children 4-12 years { clearTimeout(timer); timer = setTimeout(function(){ window.livewire.find('H16bD3KqTWDgUP7NKsu1').emit('personChanged', value, 'child'); }, 1000) })"> 0 ? 1 : 0" class="relative -mr-10 inline-flex justify-center items-center w-10 h-10 rounded-full bg-white text-gray-900 text-sm hover:text-gray-500 focus:z-10 focus:outline-none focus:shadow-outline-blue active:bg-gray-100 active:text-gray-700 transition">
• Infant 0-3 years { clearTimeout(timer); timer = setTimeout(function(){ window.livewire.find('H16bD3KqTWDgUP7NKsu1').emit('personChanged', value, 'infant'); }, 1000) })"> 0 ? 1 : 0" class="relative -mr-10 inline-flex justify-center items-center w-10 h-10 rounded-full bg-white text-gray-900 text-sm hover:text-gray-500 focus:z-10 focus:outline-none focus:shadow-outline-blue active:bg-gray-100 active:text-gray-700 transition">
• Mexican Peso MXN New Zealand Dollar NZD Norwegian Krone NOK Polish Złoty PLN Romanian Leu RON Singapore Dollar SGD South African Rand ZAR South Korean Won KRW Swedish Krona SEK Swiss Franc CHF Turkish Lira TRY UAE Dirham AED Ukrainian Hryvnia UAH

Something went wrong!

Drink in tales of San Francisco Irish resistance at this legendary bar

• Copy link to this article

More than 5,000 miles separate the Bay Area from Dublin and Belfast, but the ghosts of Ireland’s past never feel very far away here.

San Francisco has a long Irish history, dating back to the Gold Rush. City records estimate a third of San Francisco’s workforce was of Irish descent by the 1880s. An Irishman, Jasper O’Farrell, of O’Farrell Street fame, also designed the city grid, meaning that the very fabric of San Francisco is, in effect, Irish.

But history lessons can be a tad dry. They always go down better at the bar of the Dovre Club, washed down by multiple pints of the black stuff served up by bartender Brendon “Elvis” McElhatton, who’s been pulling them there since 1999. I wanted to know if some local shenanigans I’d heard about were authentic Irish history or blarney, so I made my way down there and claimed a stool.

The Dovre Club is steeped in San Francisco Irish folklore. The walls are adorned with newspaper clippings about the bar and its former owner, Patrick “Paddy” Nolan. Hunter S. Thompson is said to have drunk there with journalist Warren Hinckle, a friend of Nolan’s. Photos of Nolan hang alongside Irish memorabilia and a banner reading “Free the H-Block 4.” (More on that later.)  The Guinness is creamy, delicious and served the proper way. One raucous tale I sought to verify had to do with piglets and a posh hotel. As the legend goes, Nolan, a staunch advocate of Irish Northern Aid, a major faction in the movement to unite Ireland into a single nation, was behind a prank that involved backing a truck full of live piglets up to the entrance to the Westin St. Francis and releasing them into the lobby. 

The stunt, it’s said, was in protest of the presence at the hotel of Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth’s sister. The pigs referenced a remark allegedly made by the princess during a dinner with Chicago’s mayor in the late 1970s. The rumor that she had denounced the Irish as pigs caused international uproar during a bloody time in Northern Ireland. 

Sadly, I could find no newspaper archive clippings to verify this squealing act of resistance against the British monarchy. Still, Irish protesters did gather outside the Fairmont Hotel on Oct. 22, 1979, where the princess was attending a dinner-dance at the Venetian Room alongside guests such as Bob Hope and Tony Bennett. At least one of the 200 angry Irish protesters brought a live piglet—named Jigs, San Francisco Examiner archives show.

Nolan never had children and died of throat cancer in 1996, leaving his storied Mission District bar to Brian McElhatton, who died of brain cancer in 2008. Elvis is Brian’s younger brother, and probably one of the only men alive who might know the truth about the piglets. But when I asked about them, he simply laughed and said, “That’s classic gossip!”

Potato bombs from the Golden Gate?

Another tale claims that when the late Queen Elizabeth visited San Francisco in the 1980s, Irish protesters stood on the Golden Gate Bridge with a sack of potatoes, hurling them at the royal yacht Britannia from above. 

This one, too, merits a fact-check. For one thing, “it was pig’s blood,” Elvis said. “We’ve got to keep our potatoes. We don’t waste that shit.” 

It also never made it past the plotting stage. Police caught wind of the scheme, but many of the cops, being Irish themselves, refused to intervene, according to Elvis.

The plan never came to fruition, as the Golden Gate Bridge walkways were closed, he said. FBI documents allege there was a plot to kill the queen that involved dropping something off the bridge toward the royal yacht during her 1983 visit. The files name the Dovre Club as a gathering place for Irish Republican Army sympathizers.

A related legend claims Nolan and friends loaded boats with rotting fish and tailed the royal yacht so that seagulls would flock over the Queen’s fancy floater and play havoc with its sophisticated radar systems—or perhaps just cover it in poop. Alas, no newspaper clippings could be found to corroborate this tale either. But news clips do show a tight cordon was enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard to keep private vessels away from the royal yacht. 

I asked Elvis about this tale, too. “Never let the truth get in the way of a good story,” the bartender said after serving me another Guinness.

Rumors of a secret IRA safe house

Dovre Club’s former home, at the corner of what is now the Women’s Building, is rumored to have harbored Irish political prisoners in a secret basement before the club moved to the corner of Valencia and 26th streets in 1998.

The basement exists. I went to see it for myself, guided by the building’s facilities manager, Julio Artiga, who had no idea his storage room may once have been a refuge for IRA members and the like. The bar above is now a day care center, but old metal doors that lead to the street can still be seen from below, as can an ancient-looking washbasin and urinal—what more does a wayward Irish son need below a bar?

I was dying to know whether it really did stash prisoners. But when I asked Elvis about it; the color drained from his otherwise rosy complexion, and he shook his head.

“I’ve already got enough enemies, and I’m not trying to make any more,” he said. 

The legend of the H-Block 4

San Francisco Irish history is forever entwined with the story of the H-Block 4, four prisoners who escaped from Long Kesh, the infamous British prison in Northern Ireland—known as the Maze—in 1983. No tale of Irish San Francisco is complete without mentioning the escapees.

The men found sanctuary in the San Francisco Bay Area; one was extradited, one was deported and two stayed behind. One, Terry Kirby, lives in the East Bay. A phone call to Kirby’s home was answered by a woman with a faint Irish accent who said they weren’t interested in talking about Irish resistance in San Francisco before the phone slammed down.

The youngest of the four, Kevin Arrt, lives in San Francisco. I found an address for him and visited the street, but the door number didn’t exist. One door number up, a man stood outside a house. 

“I’m looking for a man named Kevin,” I asked him. He froze and then spoke back in a Northern Irish accent. “What do you want him for?”

I explained my quest. “I know Kevin, but he doesn’t live on this street. Give me your number, and I’ll have him give you a call.” A phone call from a blocked number came a day later, and Kevin—who was the man I'd met on the street—apologized for his deception. He said my British accent had scared the life out of him, thinking I was an assassin. (Do assassins wear corduroy trousers, too?)

Kevin did not want to comment for this story, stating he’d prefer to stay under the radar after clearing his name in Northern Ireland in 2020. He now wishes to retire in peace and said all the men with direct knowledge of any resistance acts in San Francisco, humorous or otherwise, were likely all dead.

Still, if you want to drink among some real San Francisco Irish history this St. Patrick’s Day, Dovre Club is open from noon until 2 a.m., with corned beef hash served around 3 p.m.

Writer's note: I grew up in Manchester, England, but feel it’s important to say my dad grew up in Roscommon, Ireland, in this very farmhouse , which is about as Irish as you can get. I’m an Irish citizen (thanks, Brexit). And if Ancestry’s DNA test is to be believed, my mother is about 20% Irish, too. Erin go bragh.

Joe Burn can be reached at [email protected]

Filed Under

Election | First Lady Jill Biden speaks on LBGTQ+ rights…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Public Notices
• Marin Supervisors
• Marin Civil Grand Jury

Election | First Lady Jill Biden speaks on LBGTQ+ rights at Human Rights Campaign dinner in California

“they want to take our victories away but we won’t let them,” said jill biden, referencing republican attacks on lgbtq+ rights.

First Lady Jill Biden and her daughter Ashley Biden highlighted the Biden administration’s efforts to fight on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community at the Human Rights Campaign’s 2024 Los Angeles dinner on Saturday evening, March 23.

“Thanks to our president, marriage equality is now a law, he ended the ban on bisexual and gay men donating blood, he made it possible for trans Americans to serve openly and honorably in the military and he’s standing firmly against conversion therapy,” said Jill Biden.

HRC is the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization and selected the first lady as their keynote speaker due to her record of advocating on behalf of the queer community. The private event was hosted at the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel in Century City and attended by approximately 650 people.

Biden used her speech to underscore the importance of reelecting her husband in November noting that “MAGA extremists” are trying to “unwind all the progress we’ve made” on LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

“Just last night we had to fend off more than 50 anti-gay amendments that Republicans tried to force into the government funding bill,” she said. “These were extreme measures aimed directly at this community, measures that would have limited health care, eroded protection for same sex couples and more.”

“And they serve only one purpose: to spread fear.”

According to the Human Rights Campaign, more than 50 proposed anti-LGBTQ+ provisions were stripped from the final version of the $1.2 trillion funding package that was approved by the Senate on Saturday morning.

“They want to take our victories away but we won’t let them,” she said. “We will win tomorrow and on the days after, until all the people in all of the places can live freely surrounded by love. I love you. Your President loves you.”

Ashley Biden also referenced ongoing attacks on the LGBTQ+ community during her speech, including the recent death of transgender teen Next Benedict who was fatally attacked in a school bathroom in Oklahoma.

“We know it’s not just Next, LGBTQ students deserve to feel safe at school and no one should have to endure violence just because of who they are,” she said. “My parents know that.”

Last October, President Biden and the First Lady, spoke at HRC’s national dinner in Washington, D.C, which marked the president’s fourth time keynoting the event.

The first lady is in town for a four-day fundraising and speaking swing through Los Angeles and Palm Springs. On Friday, she attended a campaign reception in Hancock Park and on Monday she is scheduled to deliver a speech on the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research at the Getty Center.

Earlier on Saturday, Biden delivered a speech to around 125 people at a private fundraiser in the Rancho Mirage home of James Costos and Michael Smith.

Will Rollins, the Democratic nominee for California’s 41st Congressional District, introduced the first lady and thanked her for her advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community.

“Thanks to the work that the first lady and the president have put in throughout their careers, America is now a place where you can serve the country you love, regardless of who you love,” said Rollins, “So thank you, Dr. Biden.”

During the ten minute address Biden hit upon many of the same points she shared at Friday evening’s L.A. campaign reception . This includes the strength of her relationship with Joe Biden, his major accomplishments as President and the urgency of reelecting him in November.

“These are tumultuous times for the world — Russia’s brutal campaign in Ukraine, war in the Middle East — and they require the steadiness and the expertise of a tested, proven leader like my husband,” she said.

“With his judgment and his experience and his relationship with leaders across the globe, Joe isn’t just the right person for the job,” she continued. “He’s the only person for the job.”

More in Election

Election | Ross Valley voters might have sunk Tam Union bond plan

Key questions as Donald Trump approaches $454 million deadline

Election | Prop. 1 backers and foes both seek count of thousands of disqualified ballots

Election | Election results: Latest Marin voting totals

Endorsements | Keeping up with the Bezoses: Mark Zuckerberg…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Today's e-Edition

• Opinion Columnists

Endorsements

Endorsements | keeping up with the bezoses: mark zuckerberg buys a super yacht, reports say, a report says that zuckerberg’s luxurious new $300 million vessel was originally was commissioned by a russian oligarch who was the target of sanctions imposed after that country’s invasion of ukraine.

Given that Mark Zuckerberg enjoys a respectable 16th place on a list of the world’s richest people, he probably figured it was time for him to acquire one of the ultimate status symbols for the mega-wealthy — a super yacht.

A new report from The Sun said that Zuckerberg is now the proud owner of a $300 million vessel that he has christened “Launchpad.” The 387-foot-long vessel, which comes with a helipad and a $30 million companion boat, was seen docked this week at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with its unique chrome finish reflecting in the sun.

This purchase shows, among other things, that the Facebook and Meta founder and CEO has branched out from buying islands and building an underground complex to help him survive the apocalypse. Perhaps, he wants to cruise the Mediterranean this summer and be among the moguls who can play host to Leonardo DiCaprio.

The yacht definitely grants him admission to the watery playgrounds of such multibillionaires as Jeff Bezos, Larry Ellison, Bill Gates and any of the Russian oligarchs who haven’t been the target of sanctions imposed by the United States or its allies over Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

In fact, Zuckerberg reportedly came by Launchpad due to the misfortunes of one of those oligarchs. The yacht originally was commissioned to be built by Vladimir Potanin, one of Russia’s richest men who is on multiple sanctions list, according to a report by Autoevolution.com , a transportation industry site. The yacht was known as Project 1010, and the shipbuilder in the Netherlands was legally barred from delivering it to Potanin when it was completed in 2022, though Autoevolution also said that Potanin was not the yacht’s actual owner.

The Sun reported that the yacht recently received “special permission” to be imported. It has since arrived in the United States, a couple months ahead of Zuckerberg’s 40th birthday on May 14 — which raises the question of whether he meant Launchpad as a birthday gift to himself.

It’s quite a gift: Launchpad can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard. It also requires a crew of 48 and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com . But shelling out $30 million for maintenance a year shouldn’t be a problem for Zuckerberg, who reportedly earns between $6 million and $12 million a day, The Sun said.

But as spectacular as Launchpad sounds, super yacht fans might say it’s not as spectacular as Jeff Bezos’s super yacht, Koru. The $500 million sailing vessel features very tall masts, a swimming pool, a helipad and room for a second, smaller yacht. The most noteworthy thing about Koru is that Bezos commissioned a special sculpture to decorate its prow. It’s a “curvaceous winged goddess” that is said to bear a striking resemblance to his fiancee Lauren Sanchez.

The Amazon founder, his wife-to-be and the goddess figurehead spent much of last summer sailing around the Mediterranean, cruising from Spain to Croatia and hosting such famous guests as Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom and Usher. The couple also threw a lavish engagement party off the coast of Positano on Italy’s Amalfi coast, attended by another pack of famous friends, including Kris Jenner, Wendi Murdoch and, yes, Leonardo DiCaprio.

• Report an error
• Policies and Standards

More in Endorsements

Endorsements | Our Bay Area endorsements for Tuesday’s primary election ballot

Endorsements | Editorial: Even wealthy Piedmont residents deserve honest ballot information about their taxes

Endorsements | Editorial: Ballot plan shows California school construction inequities

Endorsements | Editorial: East Bay voters should OK only one of four school bond plans