The ferry from Larkspur approaches the dock at Oracle Park on May 10. (Image: Kathryn Reed)
How to avoid traffic and parking in San Francisco? Take the ferry.
Earlier this month was only the second time I’ve done so. Commuting by boat makes so much sense. My commute was from Larkspur in Marin County to Oracle Park to see the San Francisco Giants. (They actually won in extra innings.)
Maybe that is reason alone to keep taking the ferry; maybe I’ll jinx my luck with the G Men if I drive again.
Anyway, the ferry was perfect. The scenery, well, it’s spectacular. The ride was smooth. The seats could be a little more comfortable. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
It does take longer by boat. Departure time is 11:10 a.m. for a 1:05 p.m. first pitch. The good thing is with the ballpark ferry it doesn’t depart until 30 minutes after the last out, so you know you have a ride back as opposed to having to leave at a set hour.
People knew to get to Larkspur early so they had the seat they wanted and could get into the front of the concessions line.
Giants fans board the special baseball game ferry in Larkspur. (Image: Kathryn Reed)
The only thing that irritated me is you aren’t supposed to bring a full water bottle on board. I understand they don’t want people to bring alcohol on board, and that they want people to buy their products, but it’s still annoying. There should be some test so they know it’s just water. I say that of all facilities—airports, the actual ballpark, etc.
Ferries also deliver fans from Vallejo, Alameda and Oakland. The latter is where a friend who lives in the San Joaquin Valley gets on. Those three are a different company than what operates out of Marin. Round trip from Larkspur was $33.
While I don’t mind driving in The City, it was nice not to. Plus, this ferry dropped us off just steps from the ballpark entrance. There’s another boat from Marin that goes to the Ferry Building in SF, which would require a walk or more public transit.
Something about functional public transit is so wonderful. If only every place offered it.
Agreed. Nice ride, minus pouring my water out.
I take in Dodgers Giant series every year and ferry in from Vallejo. We get dropped off at the ferry bldg and have a very nice walk down the Embarcadero to Oracle. The ride back to Vallejo picks up up right at the stadium. We love the ferry!