Ferries

Ferry boats crisscross the San Francisco Bay, providing a key link for travelers. MTC helps make it happen.
A ferry boat on the San Francisco Bay.
Credit
Karl Nielsen

The first ferry on the San Francisco Bay was established in 1826. Millions of Bay ferry trips still happen each year.

Ferries are a key link for commuters and help reduce traffic congestion on the Bay Area’s major bridges.

WETA ferry boat "Pisces" on the water beneath the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.
Credit
Barrie Rokeach

Ferries are also part of the Bay Area’s emergency network. They can transport first responders and evacuate people in the event of a regional disaster.

The captain of a Golden Gate Ferry boat.
Credit
Karl Nielsen

Essential workers, commuters and tourists can relax and enjoy some of the best Bay views.

Silhouette of a ferry boat passenger looking at the San Francisco skyline and the San Francisco-Bay Bridge.
Credit
Noah Berger

Clipper® Card users get a discount on ferry fares. Tagging on and off is fast and easy!

A hand holding a Clipper Card, with a ferry boat in the background.
Credit
Noah Berger

MTC distributes funding that is used to maintain fleets, docks and infrastructure, and expand service to new terminals.

A Golden Gate Ferry boat docked at the San Francisco Ferry Building.
Credit
Karl Nielsen

New terminals opened in Richmond in 2019 and Alameda in 2021. Future terminals are planned for Treasure Island, San Francisco and Redwood City.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony at the ferry terminal in Richmond in January 2019.
Credit
Noah Berger

Where will your next ferry adventure take you?

Get ferry information at 511.org.