San Francisco Bay: Champagne Brunch Cruise with Buffet

Summary

Champagne brunch cruise with views of Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz

You’ll sip champagne while sailing past San Francisco icons like Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge on this brunch cruise. Enjoy a buffet loaded with breakfast classics and lunch favorites, plus live music and relaxed vibes throughout your two-hour journey. It’s an easy way to see another side of the city—one you might remember every time you spot those bridges again.

What’s the experience like?

“You want more orange juice?” That’s how our server, Maria, greeted us as we settled in by the window — not that I cared about juice, honestly. The free-flowing champagne was the real star. I’d never done a San Francisco brunch cruise before, and seeing the city from out on the bay felt weirdly new even though I’ve lived nearby for years. The Embarcadero crowds were still buzzing behind us as we pulled away, but on board it was just clinking glasses and someone’s laughter echoing off the water. I tried to pace myself at the buffet (didn’t work). The French toast was warm and soft — not too sweet — and I kept going back for more of those little cheese cubes, even though my partner teased me about it.

We drifted under the Bay Bridge first, which looks way bigger from below than you’d think. Our guide pointed out Angel Island off to the right — apparently people actually camp there? Never knew that. The wind picked up as we got closer to Alcatraz; you could smell salt in the air mixed with coffee from inside. I caught a glimpse of a couple taking selfies near the rail, hair blowing everywhere. It made me laugh because I’d just tried (and failed) to get a decent shot of my mimosa with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background — too much glare, but whatever.

The live music was mellow enough that you could talk over it without shouting. At one point some folks started dancing near their table and nobody seemed to mind or care about being watched. Dessert came around — tiny flans and pastries that looked fancier than they tasted, but still good with coffee. There was this easy feeling on board, like everyone had agreed to just relax for two hours and let San Francisco do its thing outside the windows.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — San Francisco Bay Brunch Cruise

• Board San Francisco brunch cruise
• Enjoy brunch buffet with champagne
• View Golden Gate Bridge
• See San Francisco Bay sights
• Sail under Bay Bridge
• Cruise beside Angel Island

Top questions

How long is the San Francisco brunch cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours on San Francisco Bay.

Is champagne included on this brunch cruise?

Yes, complimentary champagne and mimosas are included throughout the cruise.

What food is served during the brunch buffet?

The buffet features salads, breakfast dishes like eggs and French toast, entrées such as ham and turkey, vegetarian options, desserts, cheeses, and pastries.

Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options available?

Yes, there are vegetarian and gluten-free selections clearly marked on the menu.

Does this tour include views of Alcatraz Island?

Yes, you’ll sail past Alcatraz Island during your San Francisco Bay cruise.

Is live music provided during the brunch cruise?

Yes, live music entertainment is included onboard during your meal.

Where does this San Francisco day trip depart from?

The brunch cruise departs from Pier 3 at The Embarcadero in San Francisco.

Are tables assigned in advance for this cruise?

Yes, tables are assigned ahead of time based on your booking details.

What’s included

Your day includes a two-hour San Francisco Bay cruise with assigned seating, unlimited champagne or mimosas plus coffee or tea, a full brunch buffet featuring both breakfast favorites and lunch entrées (with vegetarian choices), live onboard music for atmosphere, port fees and taxes covered so you can just show up ready to relax—and yes, there’s dessert too before heading back to shore.