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Alcatraz Island, day tour

Pier 33, San Francisco, California

Description

Alcatraz Island was a notorious federal prison developed for military use in the mid-19th century. During the 29 years it was in use, the prison held some of the most notorious criminals in American history; it closed in 1963 and the island is now a major tourist attraction. Although situated only 2km offshore, the cold water and strong currents made escapes near impossible. Many did breakthrough but did not reach the shore, were never found (presumed drown) or, in one case, was found unconscious on the shoreline. It is possible to tour the island with Alcatraz Cruises, the ferry operator contracted hired by the National Park Service.

Access & Transport

Meeting point is at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing The tour is accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. Accessibility info for the island can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/alca/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm

Instructions & Recommendations

Note from management: face coverings are strongly recommended in boarding areas and onboard vessels. Please plan on a 3-hour Alcatraz Island tour experience, including roundtrip boat time. 72-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling required to receive a refund. 24-hour notice required for guests who purchased Ticket Assurance No food is sold on the island or boats

Meta review

This is a well-known attraction, having starred in several movies over the decades, and online reviews are mostly excellent. Visitors enjoy the boat ride with great views over the bridge and the city, the short background explanation on arrival and the ability to tour the cells where some famous detainees were incarcerated. However, many are disappointed to see that all rooms are empty, making it hard to really imagine the life and atmosphere in these walls. Recurring comments about price being excessive. Tip: take the first boat so there is no one else on the island when you reach

Environmental & Social

Minor carbon footprint from the boat crossing. Helps preserve the city's historical heritage.

Conclusion

The visit is certainly interesting but is excessively priced considering what there is to see on Alcatraz itself. The best part is probably the cruise element and that can be done for a far more competitive price. Could be done better and cheaper, in our opinion.

Key positive

Scenic boat crossing

Key negative

Expensive

Little info about the military history of the place

Suitability

Accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
First boat leaves at 8h40 and last one at 15h50.

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:3h 15m

Regulated hours

Monday08:30 - 19:00

Tuesday08:30 - 19:00

Wednesday08:30 - 19:00

Thursday08:30 - 19:00

Friday08:30 - 19:00

Saturday08:30 - 19:00

Sunday08:30 - 19:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
62 - 99
US$42.65
Adult
18 - 61
US$45.25
Teen & Young
12 - 17
US$45.25
Child
5 - 11
US$25.8
Infant
0 - 4
US$0
Family price
2 Adults + 2 Kids 5-11years

Max total number:4

Max number of adults:2

Min.child age:5

Max.child age:11

Price for familyUS$123.1

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