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Alcatraz Awaits – Check Our Timings and Plan Your Getaway!

Set Your Sails for Alcatraz – Find the Best Time to Visit

Ready to step onto the infamous island? With ferry departures throughout the day, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make your Alcatraz adventure unforgettable. Whether you’re an early bird or a sunset chaser, check out our schedule to find the perfect time for your visit.

Alcatraz Island Timings & Best Times to Visit

Timings:

Day Tours: Ferries depart daily from Pier 33 starting at 8:40 AM, with departures every half hour until 3:50 PM.
Night Tours: Available Tuesday through Saturday, with departures at 5:55 PM, 6:30 PM, and 7:05 PM.
Return Ferries: Depart from Alcatraz Island approximately every half hour. The final return ferry times are 6:30 PM for Day Tours, and 9:25 PM for Night Tours.

Best Times to Visit:

Time of Day: Morning tours (8:40 AM to 11:30 AM) are generally less crowded, offering a more serene experience.
Days of the Week: Weekdays, especially Mondays to Thursdays, tend to have fewer visitors compared to weekends.
Seasons: The least crowded months are January, February, and March. However, be prepared for cooler and potentially rainy weather during these months.

Tips:

Booking: Tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Arrival: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure to ensure timely boarding.

Duration: Plan to spend approximately 2.5 to 3 hours for the entire trip, including ferry rides and exploration on the island.

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San Francisco: Alcatraz Entry + Roundtrip Ferry + Audio Guide + Night Option

Highlights

Enjoy a scenic 4-hour exploration of Fisherman’s Wharf with a knowledgeable live guide.

Listen to an English audio guide during your visit to the historic Alcatraz prison.

Benefit from roundtrip ferry transport between San Francisco and Alcatraz Island.

Observe sea lions and historic ships at Pier 39 during the tour.

Optional add-ons include Bay Cruise tickets and admission to the SkyStar Wheel.

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San Francisco: Inside Alcatraz Tour + 1-Hour Cruise

Highlights

Visit the infamous Alcatraz Island and explore its notorious prison.

Listen to an informative audio guide available in multiple languages.

Experience a scenic one-hour cruise on San Francisco Bay.

See landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf from the water.

Flexible scheduling allows you to take the cruise at any convenient time.

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San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Entry + Hop-on Hop-off Bus

Highlights

Access the notorious Alcatraz prison island.

Explore San Francisco at your own pace with a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket.

Experience an audio-guided tour available in multiple languages.

Enjoy a cell house audio guide for an immersive visit.

Take a 1-hour walking tour of Chinatown and a panoramic 1-hour sunset tour.

Benefit from a roundtrip ferry ride included in the package.

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Muir Woods & Sausalito: Guided Day Tour from San Francisco + Alcatraz Entry

Highlights

Enjoy a guided trip crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Walk along the gentle paths through Muir Woods’ famous redwoods.

Take a break to soak in the views and atmosphere of Sausalito.

Benefit from included admission and ferry rides to Alcatraz.

Travel comfortably with air-conditioned coach transportation.

FAQs

What are the ferry departure times to Alcatraz?

Ferries to Alcatraz Island depart daily from Pier 33 starting at 8:40 AM, with departures every half hour until the last ferry at 3:50 PM. Be sure to check the schedule for any seasonal changes.

How long does the Alcatraz tour last?

The average tour duration is about 2.5 to 3 hours, including the ferry ride to and from the island. If you want to explore the island more leisurely, consider adding extra time for the self-guided audio tour.

What is the best time to visit Alcatraz?

The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting. Early morning tours tend to be quieter, while evening tours offer stunning sunset views.

How often do the ferries run?

Ferries depart every 30 minutes throughout the day. The frequency may vary depending on demand and the season, so be sure to check the exact schedule when booking your tickets.

Can I visit Alcatraz at night?

Yes, there is a Night Tour available. The night tours typically depart between 5:55 PM and 7:05 PM and offer a different, more atmospheric experience of the island.

How long before my scheduled ferry time should I arrive?

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure to allow enough time for check-in, security, and boarding.

What happens if I miss my ferry?

If you miss your scheduled ferry, you’ll need to reschedule for another time if availability permits. It’s important to arrive on time to ensure you don’t miss the boat!

Can I change my ferry departure time after booking?

Changes to your ferry departure time are not guaranteed and are subject to availability. We recommend booking your preferred time in advance to avoid any issues.

Are the ferries affected by weather?

Ferries may be delayed or canceled due to inclement weather, such as fog or strong winds. In such cases, you’ll be notified, and your tickets can be rescheduled for a later time or date.

Can I take the last ferry back?

Yes, the last ferry departs from Alcatraz Island around 9:25 PM for night tours, and 6:30 PM for day tours. Make sure to check the schedule when booking.