Visitors to Alcatraz Island can embark on a captivating journey through history, exploring the infamous former prison and its storied past. The audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards, provides an immersive experience that brings the island's tales to life. For those seeking a unique view, the boat ride offers stunning vistas of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.
A visit to Angel Island is available seasonally and is offered exclusively through the Alcatraz and Angel Island Combination Tour.
Prohibited Items
When preparing for your visit to Alcatraz Island with Alcatraz City Cruises, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring aboard - see Security section below.
Food & Drink
- Food & beverage service is available onboard all Alcatraz City Cruises’ vessels.
- Certain items can be pre-ordered before both the departure from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing and the return trip from Alcatraz Island.
- No food is allowed on the Pier 33 Landing.
- Bottled water is allowed on all areas of the Island.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on Alcatraz Island and are only available for purchase on the return trip from Alcatraz Island.
What to Wear
To ensure a comfortable visit, dress according to the weather conditions. This experience is both indoor and outdoor.
Sunglasses & Sunblock: The bay’s surface can be dangerously bright even on cold, windy days.
Rainy or Wet Days: Rain occurs frequently during Spring and Winter. Dress for possible wet weather.
Comfy Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes with grip-type soles.
Important Considerations
- There are no storage facilities for luggage at Pier 33.
- All adults must have a valid photo identification.
- All guests must have a ticket to enter the queue line and board:
- QR code on a phone or tablet
- Printed ticket from online purchase
- Printed ticket from the onsite ticket booth.
Keep in Mind:
All guests in a group must be in attendance to board or enter the queue line. These guidelines are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for every guest. By planning and following these simple guidelines, you’ll be ready for a smooth and memorable journey to one of America’s most iconic landmarks.
Security
When preparing for your visit to Alcatraz Island with Alcatraz City Cruises, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring aboard.
Prohibited Items
- Large Bags and Luggage: Due to safety concerns and security regulations similar to airports, large bags, luggage, coolers, and oversized backpacks are not allowed on the ferry or Alcatraz Island.
- Oversized Items: Items too large to be easily carried by one person are generally prohibited.
- Bicycles, Skateboards, Rollerblades, etc.
- Weapons: Any type of weapon is prohibited, including off-duty, active-duty law enforcement
- Professional Photo/Video Equipment, including Drones: Authorization from the National Parks Administration is required for professional equipment.
- Food and Drinks: Eating and drinking are restricted to the dock area, with the exception of bottled water on Alcatraz Island.
- Smoking: Permitted only in designated areas near the dock on Alcatraz Island
Permitted Items
- Small backpacks (up to 16" x 20") are generally permitted.
- Bottled water (Bring your own or for purchase on the island)
- Cameras