Where are your current landing locations?
San Francisco
- Pier 1.5**
- Pier 15**
- Hyde Street Pier**
- Pier 40**
- Pier 52**
- Gate B Ferry building (Peregrine only/size)**
- China Basin (Giants ballpark)**
- St. Francis Yacht Club for members only*
- Golden Gate Yacht Club for members only*
South SF
- Oyster Point – OP Marina **
East Bay
- Point Richmond – Marina Bay **
- Berkeley – Berkeley Marina **
- Oakland -Jack London Square (charters and events approved/small scale ferry contract in review) *
North Bay
- Sausalito (Downtown)*
- Sausalito (Cavallo Point)*
- Sausalito Yacht Club – members only
- San Francisco Yacht Club for members only
- Corinthian Yacht Club for members only
- Tiburon (Downtown)*
- Tiburon – Angel Island State Park*
- San Rafael- Terrapin Crossroads*
- Vallejo – Municipal Marina*
- Napa – Main Street Boat Dock * contracted/master tenant*
* = charter / on demand only ** = small scale ferry (commute services) and charter/on demand service.
What is your refund policy?
Tideline will refund tickets due to acts of God, such as bad weather and vessel-related service issues. We do not provide refunds for changes in living location, work schedule or personal reasons.
What’s the difference between public and private service?
The difference is based on CPUC regulations. Both public and private commuter services are available to everyone. Public service means that walk-ons are allowed without reservations. Private service is by advanced reservation only, which can be done on our website. Tideline does not have the authority to run scheduled weekend service at this time but will look to add it later.
How do I buy tickets?
How do I buy tickets?
We accept credit card payments on this secure website, tidelinetickets.com. Space on our boats is limited so we recommend that you purchase tickets in advance.
Can I cancel my reservation?
For charters, we charge a 50% cancellation fee for any private charter reservation cancelled or rescheduled less than 1 week in advance of departure. Events and commute tickets are non-refundable. Commuter ticket dates & times can be adjusted if you have a Tideline account.
What should I do once I arrive at the pier?
Wait for us to arrive. Some piers have a designated area marked with yellow taxi flags indicating water taxi pick up and drop off. Look for the Tideline logo.
What happens if I’m running late?
To help us stay on schedule, it’s important to be on time for your pickup. With our private charter service, we charge $50 for every 10 minutes of waiting time and reserve the right to leave after 15 minutes to accommodate other bookings. Our commuter services are based on a fixed schedule. If you are late, there is no guarantee of service. You may need to wait until the next ferry.
What if there’s bad weather?
Our boats continue to run when it’s raining, but we cancel service if the weather causes the water to become too rough. For updates, call our dispatch at (415) 339-0196, ext. 2.
What should I bring with me?
Like other transportation services, please bring proper identification and any ticket you may have purchased in advance. It’s important to arrive on time and to dress appropriately for conditions on the water. The Bay breeze can carry a bit of a chill, so a jacket or sweater is always recommended. Flat-soled shoes for added stability are a good idea, too.
How much does a child ticket cost?
Children’s tickets are the same cost as a normal ticket.
How many passengers can board your boats?
Our largest boat Peregrine is 145 passenger capacity, Osprey and Heron, have a 40-passenger capacity. Our newest addition Robin has a 49 passenger capacity.
Is smoking permitted on board?
No, smoking is prohibited at all times, including e-cigarettes.
Can I bring my own food onboard?
Yep!
Can I bring my own alcohol?
We do not allow commuter and event passengers to bring their own alcohol, but we do sell and serve beer, wine and liquor onboard. For private charters please call ahead for corkage fee.
Can I charter a boat for a private event?
Of course! To book a private event, please email us at info@tidelinetickets.com or call (415) 339-0196. We’ll help you schedule the appropriate service.
What should we wear?
- Please dress in layers (T-shirt, sweatshirt, wind jacket is the minimum of what we’d suggest, more if you get cold), long pants or wind pants are recommended. Any extra warm clothes can be kept down below inside the boat if you don’t use them. Hats that can be tied on are also good.
- Please wear soft-soled shoes such as tennis shoes or sneakers; no heels or cowboy boots, which can become slippery on the wet decks. Try to wear shoes that are non-marking (white or light soles sneakers preferred) Also, don’t forget your cameras & sunscreen!
- For winter trips dress warmly. We recommend a warm jacket, gloves and a hat that doesn’t come off easily. You can also wear long underwear and or wind-pants if you get cold easily. Remember it will be cooler on the water than on the land because of the wind.
Can pregnant women sail?
Boating while pregnant can be safe and still fun, however, if you have any questions or concerns we recommend consulting with your physician.
Do we have to wear life jackets (PFDs)?
Children under 13 years of age are required by law to wear life jackets while onboard at all times. Safety is very important to us. Our life jackets are comfortable and will not impact your enjoyment of the sailing. We have life jackets for children and adults. During the Captain’s safety announcement, before leaving the dock, he or she will explain where they are located.
Will I get seasick?
Probably not. Since our boat is very stable most people don’t have any problems. If you are very susceptible you may want to get a patch or some seasick pills and take them at least 12 hrs. in advance of sailing. Taking them immediately before the excursion begins could actually increase your symptoms. Avoid greasy or acidic foods, if possible. Also, avoid going down in the cabin when you’re sailing. Ginger is a great natural remedy. Wristbands are also a good alternative to Dramamine or Bonine (which tend to make people drowsy). If you still have concerns, we recommend that you discuss with your doctor.
What happens if it rains?
Severe weather in this area of California is rare and cruises will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Our boat has 360-degree, protected viewing areas! In the rare event that we have to cancel a cruise, you will have the opportunity to reschedule your trip (subject to availability) or receive credit towards a future event.
What is the cancellation policy?
If you cancel less than 1 week before your sail, 50% of the price of the charter will be charged to your credit card, unless you reschedule your event within 6 months. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the event you will be charged the full price of the charter, unless you reschedule your event within 6 months.
What else should I bring?
Be sure to bring your sunglasses, sunblock and a hat or baseball cap. A cord around your neck will keep sunglasses and hat from falling overboard. Remember to charge your phone and have enough memory on it to take photos.
Is there air conditioning or heating onboard?
Yes, our main salon is climate controlled for your comfort.
Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, there is a clean modern bathroom onboard.
Is it customary to tip the crew?
It is up to you. We strive to offer our guests the best experience possible aboard our vessels. Tips are not required but they are greatly appreciated.
Where do I park?
Parking varies depending on which location you depart from. Please ask us for additional details upon booking your excursion.
Is there a telephone onboard?
No, however, cellular coverage is quite good given that we typically don’t go further than one mile from shore.
Are there any legalities around scattering ashes in the State of California?
In the State of California, it is permissible to scatter ashes near shore. Biodegradable flowers or a biodegradable urn are also permissible. Your cremation service should provide you with a permit to scatter the ashes. We will ask you for a copy of this permit in advance of sailing. Some people choose to bring a clergy or mediator to perform a more formal ceremony while many others choose to create their own personal memorial. All of our events are custom and suited to you and your group.
Are pets allowed?
As much as we love our furry friends, pets of any kind are not permitted as they can be a potential tripping hazard.
Are children allowed?
Children over 5 years of age are allowed with parental supervision and must understand verbal instructions. All children (13 or younger) must wear a PDF (personal floatation device) throughout the excursion with no exceptions.