easy
2 hours
Moderate mobility required for boarding and standing on boat decks comfortably
Take in the Blue Angels’ precision aerial maneuvers from the water with a two-hour cruise around San Francisco Bay, featuring close views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
Spectacular Views • All Ages • 2.5 Hours
Experience the thrill of the Blue Angels Air Show from the comfort of a San Francisco Whale Tours vessel! This two-hour cruise offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, making it a unique way to celebrate Fleet Week while enjoying the stunning San Francisco Bay.
On this 2 hour cruise, you will:
No food or drinks are provided on board, but please feel free to bring your own!
Gate B located behind the Aquarium of the Bay (San Francisco, CA) (Exact meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets.)
How should I dress?
Dress in layers as it can get a few degrees cooler out on the water.
How long will the air show be? How much of the trip is cruising and for how much of it will we be watching the show?
The air show will begin around 2pm and we should be back to the dock by 4:30pm.
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 and of course the spectacular air show.
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. We ask that you refrain from bringing glass bottles. Small handheld coolers are ok, but no large or on-wheels coolers will be allowed.
What happens if it rains?
The air 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, some wildlife in and around the bay, and get a general overview of the bay area while watching the show.
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 a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.
Are children allowed?
Yes, everyone is allowed! The tickets are $90.00 per person, regardless of age!
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.
Will we see wildlife on this trip?
While this cruise is focused on the air show, it is very likely that we will see wildlife on this cruise such as sea lions, porpoise, sea birds, and other wildlife.
Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, the boat is 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?
Unfortunately, there are 4 steps you must take to board the boat, but 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.
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 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 purchase a gift certificate?
Yes, gift certificates make a great gift for any occasion! If you are interested in purchasing a gift certificate, please click “Contact SFWhaleTours” and include the following information: how many tickets you want the gift certificate to be good for, the mailing address you want them sent to, and your phone number so that San Francisco Whale Tours can contact you to process the gift certificate. Thanks!
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.
Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled. Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.
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.
This popular Fleet Week event sells out quickly; reserve your spot ahead to enjoy unobstructed views of the Blue Angels.
Arriving 30 minutes early ensures smooth boarding and better access to window seats or outdoor decks.
San Francisco Bay can be chilly and windy even on sunny days; layers help you stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
While the cruise offers great views, binoculars will enhance spotting intricate aerial maneuvers or distant landmarks.
Fleet Week honors U.S. military service members with air and sea demonstrations, a tradition running since 1981.
San Francisco Bay efforts focus on reducing pollution and protecting marine habitats amid heavy urban activity.
Protects from bay wind and cool temperatures in spring.
spring specific
Reduces glare on sunny days and enhances viewing comfort.
summer specific
Captures high-speed aerial maneuvers with clarity.
Helps to observe distant aerial details and landmarks.