Transportation Advice?

Question

Hi all,

I will be in SF this May with limited days. Do you recommend any ferry or boat line to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island?

Also, do you know the most touristic cable car line? If yes, I will wait for your responses.

Thanks in advance.

Can

Answer

Visiting San Francisco in May is a great time for sightseeing, and there are several excellent options for viewing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and experiencing the iconic cable cars.

Ferry and boat options:

Alcatraz Cruises: This is the official ferry to Alcatraz Island and includes timed entry to the prison tours. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as May is a popular month and tickets can sell out. The cruise departs from Pier 33 near Fisherman’s Wharf and offers excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge along the way.
Bay Cruises / Hornblower Cruises: If you’re looking for a broader sightseeing experience, many companies depart from Pier 39 or Fisherman’s Wharf and offer 60–90 minute cruises around San Francisco Bay. These cruises pass under or near the Golden Gate Bridge and provide photo opportunities of the city skyline and Alcatraz from the water.
Blue & Gold Fleet: Offers a “Bay Cruise Adventure” that circles Alcatraz and passes beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, perfect if you don’t want to disembark at the island but still want close-up views.

Cable car advice:

The most touristic and scenic cable car line is the Powell-Hyde line. It runs from Powell Street (near Union Square) to the Hyde Street Pier near Ghirardelli Square, offering excellent views of the bay, Alcatraz, and Lombard Street along the way.
The Powell-Mason line is another option, running from Powell Street to Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s also very popular but slightly less crowded than the Powell-Hyde line for the best views.
Tips: Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid long lines, especially near the turnaround at Powell and Market. The cable cars can get crowded with tourists, but the ride is a must-do for the classic SF experience.

Suggested itinerary approach:

Start your day with Alcatraz Cruises in the morning to secure your timed entry.
After returning, consider a Bay or Hornblower cruise for scenic views from the water, which complements the Alcatraz visit.
In the afternoon, take the Powell-Hyde cable car for a classic city ride with scenic vistas, then explore the Ghirardelli Square/Fisherman’s Wharf area on foot.

With this approach, you’ll experience the best of San Francisco’s landmarks both from the water and on the city streets, making efficient use of your limited time.

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