Experience the Veteran's Day Tribute Cruise on San Francisco Bay: History, Music & Scenic Views
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the cruise is seated and requires minimal walking.
Overview
Celebrate Veterans Day with a unique three-hour history cruise on San Francisco Bay. Enjoy live bagpipe music, expert storytelling, stunning views, and a delicious lunch aboard the Potomac.
Veteran's Day Cruise - Tuesday, Nov. 11th, Includes Lunch
Final 3-HR History Cruise of the 2025 Season - A Tribute to our Veterans
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About This Adventure
Experience a memorable three-hour history cruise on Veteran's Day aboard the Potomac, featuring a tribute to military veterans. Enjoy live bagpipe music, explore San Francisco Bay's stunning sights, and savor a delicious box lunch. Docents will share fascinating stories of the area's history, making this a unique and celebratory adventure.
Join us aboard Potomac for our final three-hour history cruise of the 2025 season on Veteran's Day with a special tribute to our military veterans.
At the opening of the cruise, we will head over to the USS Hornet aircraft carrier docked in Alameda for her commemoration ceremony while Robert, a Potomac crew member and Scottish bagpiper, plays TAPS and other tunes. We then head back out into San Francisco Bay to see the islands, bridges, lighthouses, flocks of birds, various boats and ships, and other sights. A delicious box lunch will be provided. Complimentary coffee, tea and dispensed water will be available. Soft drinks and bottled water will be available for purchase.
Docents will narrate points of interest that we'll see in and around the bay, including World War II sites and other features.
Special discount for veterans and active military, and groups of 10 or more.
Join us aboard for this fantastic, celebratory cruise. It's always a great day on the bay aboard FDR's presidential yacht Potomac!
See you on board!
Please note: A 3% transaction fee is added to your ticket purchase..
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and get a good spot on deck.
Dress in Layers
Bay weather can be unpredictable—wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Bring a Camera
Capture iconic views like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz for lasting memories of the trip.
Consider Seasickness Remedies
If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication or wristbands for a more pleasant experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelicans
- Harbor seals
History
San Francisco Bay served as a critical defensive and logistical point during World War II, with the Port of Oakland playing a major military shipping role.
Conservation
Operators promote sustainable tourism by minimizing waste onboard and encouraging guests to respect local wildlife habitats, preserving the bay’s natural ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Oakland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker Jacket
Comfortably protects against cool bay breezes during the cruise.
fall specific
Sunscreen
Essential even on cloudy days to protect skin from UV exposure on the open water.
fall specific
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting distant landmarks and wildlife along the bay.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the trip while being eco-friendly.