I was also the lucky recipient of a "Bay Tour" on a night flight out of SFO a few months ago. Prior to takeoff, the captain mentioned that he would ask ATC for permission to take a slight scenic detour. I heard them grant his wish on Channel 9, and sure enough, some great views followed (sorry to anyone trying to sleep below our flightpath!)

As the night was crystal-clear and cloudless, it was a perfect way to start the trip. The occasional unexpected gesture like that (and Channel 9 itself!) goes a long way in explaining why I fly UA by choice. ^