How do I get tickets to visit Alcatraz Island?
Posted on Feb 03, 2026 / Travel
To visit Alcatraz Island, you must buy a ferry ticket, and the only official provider is Alcatraz City Cruises, which runs boats from Pier 33 in San Francisco. Tickets often sell out, especially in summer or on weekends, so booking online well in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot. The ticket includes a round-trip ferry ride and the popular cellhouse audio tour that guides you through the prison with stories from former inmates and guards. You can also sometimes buy tickets by phone or in person at the departure pier, but online is the easiest and most reliable way. Since tours can sell out months ahead, checking availability early and planning is smart if you have fixed travel dates. Always be cautious about third-party sites that resell tickets at huge markups or might not be reliable. Going through the official cruise provider or the National Park Service links ensures you’re booked properly.
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