Red and White Fleet

Red and White Fleet operates sightseeing cruises on San Francisco Bay from Pier 43½, in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf. The company traces its roots to 1892 and describes itself as a family-owned San Francisco institution; for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition it supplied tall ships and launched scenic tours on the bay, more than a century ago.

The signature trip is the Golden Gate Bay Cruise, a one-hour, non-stop cruise that the company bills as an adventure for the senses. It is a simple way to see the bay and its bridge from the water and suits first-time visitors and families with limited time. For a longer outing, the Bridge to Bridge Cruise takes 90 minutes and links the Golden Gate Bridge with the Bay Bridge, while the two-hour San Francisco City Lights Cruise sails in the evening and is one of the company's best sellers. A California Sunset Cruise is also offered.

Fares are reduced for young people aged 5 to 17, and very young children travel free, which makes the shorter cruises a good family outing. Check the departures page for exact sailing times, and book online in advance at busy times; the box office at the pier opens from 9.30am to 4.45pm Monday to Friday and from 9.30am to 5.30pm at weekends.

Practical tips: the bay is often windy and cool, even on sunny days, so bring a warm layer and something to hold on to hats. Have your camera ready on the bridge cruises, and keep a firm grip on phones and hats when the wind picks up. The website has an accessibility page with details for passengers with reduced mobility, and a directions and parking page for drivers.

Pier 43½ is on the waterfront at Fisherman's Wharf, a short walk from Pier 39 and the rest of the wharf's restaurants and sights, so a cruise fits easily into a day in the area. Allow time to collect tickets or find your boarding point before departure. Combine an afternoon sailing with Irish coffee at the Buena Vista, or take the evening City Lights Cruise after dinner nearby.