Adventure Collective
Celebrate New Year's Eve on San Francisco Bay with an Unforgettable Fireworks Cruise - San Francisco

Celebrate New Year's Eve on San Francisco Bay with an Unforgettable Fireworks Cruise

San Franciscoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities.

Overview

Toast the new year aboard the Kitty Kat catamaran with unmatched views of the San Francisco skyline and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Cruise the bay and witness a midnight fireworks show that lights up the night sky over one of America’s most stunning urban waterfronts.

San Francisco, California

New Year's Eve Fireworks Cruise

On the San Francisco Bay! • Boarding at 10:30pm

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

New Year's Eve Fireworks Cruise photo 1

About This Adventure

Celebrate New Year's Eve aboard the Kitty Kat catamaran, enjoying breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Experience a spectacular fireworks show at midnight while cruising the calm waters of the bay. Bring your own food and drinks for a personalized celebration!

Ring in the new year with a fantastic view of the Fireworks Show on the San Francisco Bay! Experience San Francisco's big bang aboard San Francisco Whale Tours' spectacular catamaran Kitty Kat!

Details include:

  • Boarding will begin at 10:30 pm, and the trip will return back to the dock about 15 minutes after the show.
  • No food or drinks will be provided on board, so please bring your own!

The Kitty Kat is a 65’ power catamaran with the latest modern electronic technology . Equipped with the newly re-powered Volvo eco-friendly diesel motors, heated cabin, sundeck and premium viewing options.

What Is Not Included?

  • No food or drinks are provided on board, but please feel free to bring your own!

Meeting Location

  • Gate B located behind the Aquarium of the Bay (San Francisco, CA) (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)

FAQs

How should I dress?

Dress very warm in layers. It will be a typical chilly evening on the bay. Hats and gloves are recommended. How long will the fireworks show be? How much of the trip is cruising and for how much of it will we be watching the show? The fireworks show is typically 15 minutes in length starting at the stroke of midnight. This will leave about 1.5 hours for cruising around the bay and taking in the sights.

Is there any sightseeing at all on this trip?

Yes! There will be sightseeing on the bay, depending on the weather. Attendees can expect great views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. We'll be in prime viewing location to ring in the new year under some of the latest and greatest pyrotechnics!

Will we get wet?

While it is a boat and a slight degree of wetness is always a possibility, the protected waters of the bay are typically very calm and splash is kept to a minimum.

Can I bring my own food and drinks on board?

Yes, attendees can feel free to bring their own food and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on board with them. Small handheld coolers are ok, but no large or on-wheels coolers will be allowed.

What happens if it rains?

The fireworks show will run in foggy or slightly rainy weather. If weather forces us to cancel the cruise, you would be provided with a credit to come back and join us on a future outing.

What is the route of the trip?

While our specific route is weather-dependent, ticket-holders will see the San Francisco skyline and the golden gate bridge. Then we head over to a prime viewing location for the fireworks show before heading back.

Can I bring alcohol on the cruise?*

You may bring beer or wine on the trip, but nothing with a higher alcohol content. Hard liquor is not allowed on board.

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is required, and trips often sell out quickly. Please buy your tickets well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with all major credit cards.

Are children allowed?

Children are more than welcome to come along! Everybody will need a ticket to attend.

Is the cruise suitable for pregnant women?

Pregnant women should consult with their doctors before participating in any active activities. For safety reasons, we do not recommend that pregnant women attend. If you have any questions, please click on the "Contact SFWhaleTours" link to discuss further.

Do your trips depart on time?

Yes! We kindly ask that you arrive 30 minutes early for check-in. Don't miss the boat!

How far are you from the major airports?

We are approximately 30 minutes from San Francisco and Oakland airports depending on traffic.

Are there restrooms on the boat?

Yes, we are equipped with clean restrooms for your convenience.

Are the boats safe?

Safety is our number one priority! Our boats meet the current United States Coast guard regulations, and our experienced captain and crew make every effort to ensure a fun and safe adventure.

Are your boats handicapped accessible?

If you are mobile enough our crew would be glad to assist you onto the boat with the best of their ability. The bathrooms on board are not wheelchair accessible but can be used by a passenger with limited mobility. If you'd like to make a request for any special accommodations, please click on the "Contact SFWhaleTours" link.

Can I smoke on the boat?

No, smoking is not permitted on board.

Do you offer SFWhaleTours merchandise?

Yes, please click on the "Contact SFWhaleTours" link for more information and merchandise will be provided on board for purchase.

Can I book a private trip?

Yes, we do offer private charters. To inquire further, please click on the "Contact SFWhaleTours" link for more information.


Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled. Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy

Activity may be cancelled due to severe weather. The activity usually runs in light rain and other moderate weather conditions, but the seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If the seller cancels the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.

Adventure Tips

Bring your own refreshments

This cruise allows you to bring your favorite food and drinks to personalize your celebration.

Dress warmly for night air

Even in California, temperatures on the bay can drop at night — bring layers to stay comfortable.

Arrive early for smooth boarding

Plan to arrive before 10:30 pm to ensure timely boarding and the best spot on deck.

Charge your camera

The city lights and fireworks offer fantastic photo opportunities—make sure your devices are fully powered.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Harbor seals often spotted on the bay
  • Occasional sightings of cormorants flying low over the water

History

San Francisco's New Year's Eve celebrations have evolved significantly since the Gold Rush era, with the bay serving as a natural centerpiece for festivities.

Conservation

The cruise operator emphasizes eco-friendly practices to minimize impact on the bay’s marine environment, encouraging waste reduction and sustainable boating.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layers

Essential

Keep cozy against chilly bay breezes during the night cruise.

winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture the dazzling fireworks and city skyline views.

Non-slip shoes

Essential

Ensure steady footing on deck while the boat is moving.

Reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated throughout the celebration without producing waste.