Harbor Bay Ferry

Harbor Bay Ferry was my preferred method to commute from SF to the Harbor Bay business park in Alameda. I had a reverse commute (live in SF, work in Alameda), and found the ferry to be very peaceful, reliable, and on-​time. On the Alameda end, there is a shuttle that drops passengers off around the office buildings in Harbor Bay.
Compared to a Bart commute, the ferry has a more limited schedule (2x/​morning and 2x/​evening commute) and a slightly pricier (~$ 1/​one-​way). However, I found it to be worth the price, given how pleasant the experience was.

Compared to traffic on the road and all the crazy drivers, this makes traveling super easy and relaxing. Yes, sometimes there’s a hitch here and there at the docks that can delay departure or arrival from time to time, but it’s such a stress-​less mode of transportation. I love reading a book, people watching, or getting a quick power nap in when I take it. The views are also beautiful to observe.

Wow. Why didn’t I try this earlier? Clean, fast, quiet. I can get food, coffee, and beer. Wifi. Great views. Fewer suicides causing huge delays. Enough seats. Cheaper. Parking. Power outlets. Bathrooms. More earthquake friendly. I mean, seriously, what more could you ask for? Everything that is wrong about bart is right about the ferry. Even the employees are happier!
My only complaint is the timing. Most jobs start at 8 or 9. The ferry gets to the city about 5 minutes prior. So unless you work within 5 minutes of the terminal, you have to go out an hour early. The schedule choice confuses me. For me, starting an hour early is ok but I have spoken to several that take bart because of this. Also, if you plan to take the 535 home, get there early. It does fill up. I end up staying an hour later, too, to avoid this. My company loves the ferry as much as I do.

How do you beat the stressful commute across the Bay Bridge between Alameda and the City? A 25 minute ride on the Harbor Bay Ferry. Having taken the ferry for almost two years into the City for my work assignment, it was my most enjoyable part of my work day. It was such a relaxing commute to work and back home with great views of the City and the Bay Bridge. The ferry is modern, clean and comfortable with friendly deckhands. You can get light snacks and coffee in the morning and beer and wine for your afternoon commute.
During the recent Bay Bridge closure, the ferry operated during this period with extra runs including the weekend and Labor Day. It was nice being able to take the ferry into the City during the weekend, which was a rare treat since the ferry operates only during the weekday commute hours. Another plus? Parking is free at the ferry parking lot in Alameda too!

Easy parking. Friendly staff. Full bar. Clean restrooms. Awesome!