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.
Many tours also include a visit to the nearby Angel Island, where you can delve into the rich history of immigration in the Bay Area. For a preview of the breathtaking views and experiences awaiting you, check out our Alcatraz Cruises video highlights.
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.
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. Note: 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, please 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 a cold, windy day.
Rainy or Wet Days: Rain occurs frequently during winter and early spring. Dress for possible wet weather.
Comfy Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes with grip-type soles.
Important Considerations
- No storage: There are no storage facilities for luggage at Pier 33.
- All guests must have a ticket to board or enter the queue line:
- QR code on a phone or tablet
- Printed ticket from online purchase
- Printed ticket from the onsite ticket booth
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.
Detailed List of 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.: These are not permitted on the ferry or the island.
- Weapons: Any type of weapon is prohibited.
- Professional Photo/Video Equipment: Authorization from the National Parks Administration is needed for professional equipment.
- Food and Drinks: Eating and Drinking are restricted to the dock area, with the exception of bottled water on Alcatraz Island ONLY.
- Smoking: Permitted only in designated areas near the dock on Alcatraz Island ONLY.
Items Allowed:
- Small Backpacks: Small backpacks (up to 16" x 20") are generally permitted.
- Bottled Water: You can bring your own or purchase it on the island.
- Cameras: Photography is allowed, but drones are prohibited.