Shore Excursions in San Francisco

On most shore excursions you're relegated to cityscapes in ports of call. However this half-day tour of the Muir Woods National Monument will get you out of the urban jungle and into some of northern California's most-famous redwood country. Pass over the majestic Golden Gate Bridge with dramatic views of the Marin headlands, and eventually drop down into Muir Woods to wander the loamy soil beneath centuries-old coastal redwoods. Choose from tours at several different start times, and bring comfortable walking shoes.

San Francisco is not your typical port of call; nearly every street has something of interest to the visitor. If it's overwhelming to figure out exactly what to visit and when, this city tour might be just what you need. Start from Fisherman's Wharf and check out all the major sights that the city has to offer. From Chinatown to North Beach to Nob Hill to the Presidio, you'll enjoy all the stunning scenery from your window perch - just be sure to get out for photo ops at Golden Gate Park and City Hall.

While in port in San Francisco, discover the city on a 1- to 2-day hop-on hop-off tour. Climb aboard your double-decker bus and see top attractions including Fisherman's Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge's South Vista Point and the Haight-Ashbury District, hopping off to explore at your own pace whenever you choose. Head to the upper deck to see 360-degree views and enjoy live narration on board. Upgrade to the 2-day pass to include a stop in the charming town of Sausalito with spectacular views of the Bay.

Getting off a cruise ship in an unknown land can be daunting, so give your sea legs some rest on a coach tour of Sonoma and Napa Valleys. Enjoy the scenery or catch up on some shut-eye en route to wine tasting at Madonna Estate, Sutter Home and Sebastiani Vineyards. For lunch, you'll stop in either Yountville or the picturesque downtown Sonoma Square. Then, return via the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Next time you're in port in San Francisco, why not spend your day touring the city's top attractions? Board a ferry for Alcatraz, and at the Rock, hear the stories and legends associated with the infamous penitentiary on a self-guided audio tour. Then, travel by coach to renowned sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies of Alamo Square, and Chinatown.

Make the most of your time when your ship docks in San Francisco with a combination of a morning tour to Muir Woods and an independent hop-on hop-off city bus tour in the afternoon. First, cross the Golden Gate Bridge to meander through the ancient coastal redwood forest at Muir Woods National Monument, returning to the city via the waterfront town of Sausalito. Then explore San Francisco at your own pace on a hop-on, hop-off tour with 20 different stops.