San Francisco Bay Ferry's much-anticipated service between the East Bay and South San Francisco will launch on Monday, June 4, giving commuters a fast, stress-free alternative to the daily grind of traffic on the Bay Bridge and along Highway 101.
Commuters will have the option to enjoy a comfortable and scenic 40- to 50-minute ride aboard sleek, modern vessels equipped with free WiFi and a host of other amenities. And, their fare is free for the first week of service. Commuters may reserve their free seat on a first-come, first-served basis by visiting www.sanfranciscobayferry.com.
The East Bay-South San Francisco service – the first new water transit route on the Bay in nearly 20 years – will operate Monday through Friday during peak commute periods, with three morning departures from Alameda Main Street and Oakland's Jack London Square, and two evening return departures from South San Francisco’s new Oyster Point Ferry Terminal.
“The June 4 maiden voyage of the East Bay to South San Francisco ferry service marks a new chapter in water transportation on San Francisco Bay,” said Nina Rannells, Executive Director of San Francisco Bay Ferry. “Our vision for the future of transportation around the Bay Area includes a robust ferry system, starting with this important step in serving the vibrant and growing employer base in South San Francisco. In addition to providing an alternative to our increasingly congested roadways, this service ensures emergency access in the event of a natural disaster.”
Ferry passengers will enjoy a host of on-board amenities including free WiFi, food and full beverage concessions and a variety of seating options to maximize comfort. In addition, the ferries are designed to accommodate more than 30 bicycles. Peninsula Congestion Relief Alliance and Genentech shuttles will meet ferry arrivals and deliver riders to major employer locations. Free parking is available near or at all three terminals.
The two vessels serving the route carry up to 149 passengers at a top speed of 25 knots. A one-way adult fare for the East Bay-South San Francisco route will be $7.00. Seniors, disabled, and youth (5-12) are $3.50. Clipper cards, credit cards and cash are accepted.