I've always seen a lot of the Blue & Gold boats sailing around the Bay. Is it worth it to take one of their tours with 2 kids (age 7 & 4)? Any tour in particular that you would recommend? Thanks.

Having exhausted most of my ideas for day trips in the Bay Area when family is in town visiting over the years, I thought that the idea of a bay cruise would be fun, and indeed it was. Though I don’t recall the length of the trip, whether it was an hour, one and ½ hours or longer, my family really enjoyed it. The cruise goes under the Golden Gate Bridge, near Alcatraz Island and skirts nearby communities. Because it is often windy and cold in the bay, I would recommend taking a jacket and gloves as those who rush to the top of the boat when boarding at the beginning of the cruise usually end up inside, where it is a little warmer. Overall, it was an enjoyable activity. Although I live in San Francisco, I enjoyed seeing the cityscape from the bay.

Although there is an age disrepancy, I took my grandaughter on the alcatraz tour. While I thought she might not have the patience, she loved it. The idea of seeing a prison and listening through the headphones to stories and explanations was quite exciting and interesting for her. One thing...depending on when you will be there, if you're going to do it, order the tickets in advance via the computer. They do sell out. Have a wonderful time. In case you're looking for other things to do...we did the big brown bear factory where she made a great bear to take home; did all the fun stuff on Pier 39: motion simulator rides; san francisco movie; and lots of free live entertainment.

Thank you, raffy and Marysunshine for your suggestions.

I went to the Blue and Gold website. Turns out they have a weekend special to the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito. They have a special program based on "Arthur", the PBS television program.

Per your suggestion, I purchased tickets on the web site - it would have been such a disapointment to get to the pier only find them sold out! Thanks for the heads up.

I figure the kids can enjoy themselves at the museum, and afterwards my wife and I can enjoy Sausalito.

I can recommend the Alcatraz tour! Many families with children take this tour and IMO it was loved by anybody.

In high season be shure to be early at the pier or buy your tix in advance. There can be huge crowds and tours tend to sell out.