ALCATRAZ HISTORY - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
©2002 RJ BestALCATRAZ HISTORY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ALCATRAZ
How big was the average cell?
Each cell in B & C block was 5 feet by 9 feet. All cells had a small sink with cold running water, small sleeping cot, and a toilet. Most men could extend their arms and touch each wall within their cell. The cells in D Block (called "segregation") were more spacious, but less desirable.
How many cells were there?
Alcatraz was divided into four blocks. A Block was used solely for materials storage. (There were, of course, occasional exceptions made to this rule. When an inmate didn't require full solitary confinement but needed to be separated from other inmates, A Block was sometimes used. Records indicate that Sam Shockley and Miran Thompson were both imprisoned in A Block – separated multiple cell lengths – after the 1946 Riots and while standing trial for the deaths of two Alcatraz Guards from the 1946 escape attempt.) There were 336 cells in B & C Blocks. According to the National Park Service, there were originally 348, but 12 were removed when stairways were installed at the end of each cellblock. Two cells on the end of C Block were used as restrooms for the guard staff. The dreaded D Block contained 36 segregation cells and 6 solitary confinement cells (known as confinement chambers by many inmates).
How many prisoners did Alcatraz have at any given time?
The highest number ever recorded was 302, and the lowest number 222. The average number of inmates during the 29 years of service was around 260. Approximately 1545 total men were imprisoned there. The National Park Service indicates that although 1,576 number were issued, over thirty convicts returned to Alcatraz and were issued new numbers.
What was the average stay?
The average length of residence was about eight years.
Where did the families of the guard staff live?
At any given time, about 300 civilians lived on Alcatraz – that included women and children. Building #64 housed most families. In addition, there were three apartment buildings, one large duplex, and four large wooden houses for senior officers. Families enjoyed their own bowling alley, small convenience store, and soda fountain shop for the younger island residents. Because the prison boat made twelve scheduled runs to the Van Ness Street Pier each day, families did most of their shopping on the mainland. The Warden lived in a large home adjacent to the cell house and used inmates with good conduct records for cleaning and cooking. The Captain and the Associate Warden lived in the duplex.
How many guards worked here?
Ninety officers were required to cover the three 8-hour shifts, plus sick leave and vacation time. Two-thirds of the custody staff resided on the island with the rest in San Francisco and local areas.
Were Alcatraz inmates allowed visitors?
Yes. Inmates were granted one visit per month and each visitation had to be approved directly by the Warden. No physical contact was allowed. Inmates were not allowed to discuss current events or any matters concerning prison life. They talked with visitors via intercom and a correctional officer was supposed to monitor the conversations. Inappropriate conduct during visits would result in a loss of visiting and/or other privileges.
Did any Alcatraz inmates have anything good to say about the prison?
Oddly, yes. During an interview with Inmate Willie Radkay (he shared a cell next to Machine Gun Kelly), he indicated that having one's own cell was a great advantage over other federal prisons. The chances of being sexually violated and the privacy aspect were cherished benefits. He also stated that, most of the time, the staff treated the inmates respectfully, though they rarely spoke to one another. Believe it or not, the food was cited by many inmates as the best within the entire prison system.
What did inmates dislike most about Alcatraz?
The rule of silence was probably the most difficult to bear. This rule was considered harsh and inmates were disciplined for even minor violations of it. In the earlier years of Alcatraz, inmates were not allowed to talk to one another except during meals and recreation periods. It wasn't uncommon for inmates to empty out the water from their toilets to create a primitive communications system through the sewage piping. Inmates also state that the island was always cold. Most agree that cells on their higher tiers with window views were more popular since they tended to be warmer than the ground level cells.
How many prisoners were executed at Alcatraz?
None. Alcatraz had no facilities for Capital Punishment, so the process was left to State institutions. Alcatraz inmates awaiting a death sentence were transferred to San Quentin State Penitentiary for execution in the Gas Chamber.
How many people died while at Alcatraz?
Eight people were murdered by inmates on Alcatraz. Five men committed suicide, and fifteen died from natural illnesses. Though the island had its own morgue, no autopsies were performed there. All deceased inmates were brought back to the mainland and released to San Francisco County.
Has anyone ever escaped from Alcatraz?
Depends what you mean by "escaped."
Federal officials state that nobody ever escaped. The escape attempt of June 11, 1962, however, leaves a lingering doubt. The three men who disappeared from the prison on that date (the escape attempt made famous by the Clint Eastwood movie, Escape from Alcatraz) are presumed drowned – they were never found. Does that qualify as an official escape? You be the judge.
Some military prisoners were successful, though. Perhaps their success is what made federal officials beef up security so much when Alcatraz became a United States Penitentiary.
How many people escaped?
Thirty-six prisoners were involved in escape attempts. Two inmates actually successfully made it off the island but were quickly captured. Seven inmates were shot and killed trying to escape. Two drowned and five inmates have been presumed drowned.
Did anybody get released?
Only two men were ever paroled directly from Alcatraz to the free world.
Was it true that inmates were locked in dungeons for punishment?
Prisoners enjoyed telling the press wild tales about the dungeon and the torture that was delivered there. The truth is less colorful – as well as less clear. The cells below A Block were real dungeons built during the 1860s when Alcatraz a military fortress. Through the years, the dungeon was indeed used to house and punish political as well as military prisoners. When Alcatraz became a federal prison, Warden Johnston supposedly made use of the old rooms to punish escapers like John Standig, troublemakers like James Grove and Henry Larry, and the leaders of the 1936 and 1937 general strikes. A Block was used frequently as the segregation unit before D Block had undergone the transformation into a lock-down unit. The conditions were so harsh and cruel, however, that Bureau of Prisons Director James V. Bennett finally decided that this form of punishment was too cruel and forbade further use of the dungeons. After 1942, the biggest troublemakers were sent to the Hole, a sensory-deprivation chamber located above ground in the newly remodeled D-Block or "Special Treatment Unit".
Where's Al Capone's cell? Where's the Birdman's cell?
Former prisoners and Correctional Officers indicate that Al Capone's cell was on the outside west end of Cellblock B. Capone spent more time in the hospital than in the general population (GP).
Robert Stroud (Birdman of Alcatraz) arrived in 1942, spent some 90 days in the GP, and was then transferred to D Block. Occupying more than one cell over a period of seventeen years, Stroud stayed in D block cell for approximately six years and was then moved up to the hospital in 1948, staying for eleven years, by request of Warden Swope.
How many birds did Robert Stroud keep while on Alcatraz?
None. Stroud had bred and studied birds at the Federal Penitentiary in Leavenworth, Kansas but wasn't allowed to keep any at Alcatraz because he'd abused his privileges while at Leavenworth. Alcatraz wasn't about to trust him with a record as bad as his.
Why and when did Alcatraz close?
Primarily because of rising costs and deteriorating facilities. Operationally, Alcatraz was the most expensive of any state or federal institution – its isolated location was great for keeping escape attempts low but lousy at keeping costs down. It cost so much money to get essentials to the island that authorities determined other institutions could serve the same purpose for less cost. USP Alcatraz closed on March 21, 1963 (last prisoners removed on this day) and was transferred to the General Services Administration (GSA) in May 1963.
Information on Dungeons:
http://www.notfrisco2.com/alcatraz/faq/faq2.html
Photos of Area not open to the Public:
http://www.notfrisco2.com/alcatraz/pics/martini/index.html
Copyright TourCorp Inc. 2003-08 - All Rights Reserved
ALCATRAZ TOUR PACKAGES - Reserve tickets online TODAY!
Popular Alcatraz Combination Tours
We offer One and Two day combination tour packages for Alcatraz.
Beware Alcatraz Ticket Tricks and Huge Overcharges. Don't be fooled or overcharged by other Alcatraz "Official" Ticket web sites. These overpriced web sites may charge you as much as $10.00 per ticket "service charge" or $ 3.95 per order "service fee" or both. We do not mark up Alcatraz Ferry and Audio Tour prices. We also do not advertise $7.00-8.00 child ticket prices for a 1 Hour Bay Cruise that goes around Alcatraz (not to Alcatraz) to lure you into our web site.
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We offer the published prices for Ferry and Audio Tour Tickets to Alcatraz.
All of our Alcatraz tickets are combined with a 2nd tour also at published prices.
We make a commission on selling you the 2nd tour. We don't think you should
pay as much as $13.95 extra and not get anything but a Alcatraz Ferry ticket and a
"service charge."
Thanks for visiting San Francisco and purchasing tickets from us.
Notice: Alcatraz Ferry departs from Pier 33.
A very limited amount of Night Alcatraz Tours are available from Thursday through Monday nights only. Departures are 4:10 PM or 5:10 PM. Higher Night Tour rate will be charged. Ferry and Night Tour Departure Times are 4:10 PM and 5:10 PM. Please indicate if you want a Night Tour on your order. If Night tours are unavailable a day Alcatraz tour if available will be reserved for you.
If Alcatraz is Sold Out or you will be visiting Fisherman's Wharf buy a
Wharf Pass.
Save with this One Low Price Admission Pass to the best Wharf Attractions, Tours and Cruises.
| BOAT CRUISE PACKAGES | 48 HOUR HOP ON HOP OFF PACKAGES | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcatraz combined with Bay and Sunset Cruises: | Alcatraz combined with open ticket Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tours: | ||
| 1 Hour Golden Gate Bay Cruise | From $46.50 | Double Decker - 2 for 1 Downtown + Golden Gate Loops | From $74.50 |
| 2 Hour Sunset Bay Cruise (Open April - October) | From $72.50 | Double Decker - 3 for 1 All Loops: Downtown & Golden Gate Loops plus Night Tour | From $94.50 |
| Double Decker - Downtown Loop | From $54.50 | ||
| Double Decker - Golden Gate Loop | From $49.50 | ||
| FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR PACKAGES | 2 DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR PACKAGES | ||
| Alcatraz combined with Half Day Sightseeing Tours: | Alcatraz combined with a Full Day Sightseeing Tour on 2nd day: | ||
| San Francisco Deluxe City Tour | From $70.50 | Wine Country Tour | From $89.50 |
| Giant Redwoods and Sausalito Tour | From $72.50 | Wine Country and Muir Giant Redwoods Woods Tour | From $99.50 |
| San Francisco Foreign Language City Tour 6 Languages | From $68.50 | Carmel and Monterey Tour | From $89.50 |
| Segway Guided Waterfront Tour New | From $94.50 | ||
| Segway Guided Night Tour New | From $94.50 | ||
Our great Combo Tours do include the Ferry Ride to Alcatraz and the Audio
Tour of the prison cell house. Reserve online today before you arrive
in the city. Remember: The ferry tickets to Alcatraz sell out weeks
in advance. There are a limited amount of tickets per day. Make sure
you get to see "The Rock" on your trip to San
Francisco. We DO NOT sell individual Alcatraz ferry tickets.
Former federal prison Alcatraz has become a must see activity for visitors to the Bay Area. Use our one stop tour shopping to plan your vacation! You will not be charged a markup on the Alcatraz Tickets PLUS eliminate Wharf parking fees with a hotel pick up for most of our motor coach tours. Plan your entire day here. BOOK EARLY! Alcatraz tours are often sold out over a week in advance!
Tour includes ferry cruise to the infamous and notorious former federal prison.
Also included is an Award-winning audio headset tour in the prison Cell House.
No one can tell the Alcatraz tale like the men who actually lived it.
The award-winning Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour brings history alive
through the actual voices of the correctional officers and inmates
who lived on the island during the infamous Federal Penitentiary era.
Hear both sides of life in the island prison including such famous events as escape attempts, "The Battle of '46", food riots, and surviving solitary confinement.
The new Cellhouse Audio Tour is an expanded version of the original award-winning tour and includes new stories, new narrators, and explores new areas of the Cellhouse. The tour is available in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Japanese Dutch and Mandarin.
Alcatraz is one of San Francisco's most popular visitor attractions and its
tours frequently sell out a week or more in advance. Tickets are rarely
available at the Box Office for same-day sailings. The Alcatraz Ferry
departs daily from Pier 33 Fisherman's Wharf in San
Francisco. "TourCorp" is Tour & Sightseeing Company and
we only offer Alcatraz Ferry Tickets as a planning convenience for our
clients. We do not mark up or add any service fees to the
cost of the Alcatraz Tickets. Due to high demand and limited tickets
for the Alcatraz ferry/audio tour- both your Sightseeing Tour and Ferry
reservations are pending until you receive a final confirmation e-mail from us.
Click here for more Frequently Asked Questions
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ALCATRAZ TICKET AVAILABILITY:
Remember: Reserve weekend Alcatraz tickets at least 10-14 days in advance. Maximum 8 tickets per order.
BOOK ALCATRAZ EARLY TO GET BEST DEPARTURE TIMES
Very limited tickets are available for May and June weekends.
All Spring and Summer weekend cruises will sell out very early. Book Now to get best departure times!
Alcatraz Cruises depart from PIER 33.
Please indicate on the comments section of the order form if you want your Alcatraz tickets on a later or earlier day or a specific time.
1 DAY COMBINATION TOURS - SEE ALCATRAZ AS PART OF A ONE DAY SIGHTSEEING PACKAGE
  COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND DELUXE CITY TOUR |
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Dates and Times:
Daily, 9:00 AM Alcatraz Ferry time will be confirmed based on availability.
Hotel
Pick up Available. SF and Airport Area Hotels Your three hour City Tour tour will include three or four scheduled stops of 10-25 minutes each at selected landmarks. Enjoy ample time for photos and exploration at the Golden Gate Bridge and panoramic views from Twin Peaks.(weather permitting) Other memorable stops may include the stunning Palace of Fine Arts, Cliff House overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Ocean Beach and recently restored City Hall. OR Foreign Language City Tour Combo with Alcatraz INFO HERE Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the City Tour. You book the City Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Three Hour City Tour & Hotel Pick up | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult/Junior (12-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 46.00 | $ 70.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 44.00 | $ 67.25 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 25.00 | $ 40.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
 More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your City Tour Online - 2. After we recieve your City Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Same Day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning or early afternoon
departure based on availability. |
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 COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND MUIR REDWOODS & SAUSALITO TOUR |
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Dates and Times: Daily 9:00 AM Alcatraz Ferry time will be confirmed based on availability. Hotel Pick up Available. Duration: Combo Tour - 3 1/2 to 4 hours on the Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour Plus Alcatraz - 2-3 hours. The 3 1/2 to 4 hour Muir Woods Redwoods National Park & Sausalito tour starts in Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco and heads through the Marina and Presidio National Park to the Golden Gate Bridge. You will have a 10 minute photo stop at the Bridge. From the Golden Gate Bridge vista point you will enjoy spectacular views of San Francisco and the Marin Headlands. The Tour continues North winding along picturesque Highway 1 to Muir Woods. This 550 acre National Monument is home to Coastal Redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Upon arrival you will be given a map and guide of the park showing various trails and routes for a self guided tour. In the park there is a cafe, National Park bookstore and gift shop. You will spend around 1 1/4 hours among these towering trees. After leaving the National Park the tour follows the coastal road towards the city of Sausalito. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the Muir Redwoods Tour. You book the Muir Woods Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | 3 1/2 to 4 Hour Muir Redwoods Tour - Includes Hotel Pick up | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (12-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 48.00 | $ 68.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 46.00 | $ 69.25 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 26.00 | $ 41.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your Muir Redwoods Tour online. 2. After we recieve your Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Same Day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning or early afternoon
departure based on availability. |
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 COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND 1 HOUR GOLDEN GATE BAY CRUISE -2 GREAT ACTIVITIES
ON THE BAY ! |
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Dates and Times: Golden
Gate Bay Cruise Departures start at 10:00 AM Alcatraz Ferry time
will be confirmed based on availability. The Red and White Fleet one hour San Francisco Bay Cruise takes you out to the Golden Gate Bridge from Fisherman's Wharf. En route you will pass Fort Mason, the Marina District, St. Francis Yacht Club and the Presidio National Park. You will pass under the Golden Gate Bridge. Great for memorable photo opportunities. Next you will cruise close to the Marin Headlands then past Angel Island and around Alcatraz. After great views of the Bay Bridge we will head back to Fisherman's Wharf along the Embarcadero and pass by the recently restored Ferry Building at the foot of Market Street. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the 1 Hour Red and White Fleet Golden Gate Bay Cruise. You book the Bay Cruise and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | 1 Hour Bay Cruise | YOU PAY: Combination Total 2 separate reservations and 2 credit card charges |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 22.00 | $ 46.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 22.00 | $ 45.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 24.50 | $ 18.00 | $ 40.50 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 16.00 | $ 31.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS: 1. You Reserve your Golden Gate Bay Cruise online. 2. After we recieve your Bay Cruise order we will reserve Alcatraz
as a second tour on same day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning or early afternoon
departure based on availability. |
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Starts April 3, 2008 Until October 19, 2008 |
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Dates and Times: 2008 Schedule: April 3 - May 20: 6:00 pm sailings Thursday,
Friday, and Saturday Capture the essence of California’s magnificent evening sky from aboard Red and White Fleet’s California Sunset Cruise. Sail along San Francisco Bay’s astonishing waterfront with its many modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, while enjoying drinks and a variety of North Beach-style delicatessen. Along the way, you’you will view Coit Tower, the Transamerica Pyramid and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. As the sun begins to set over the Marin Headlands, you’you will cruise past Alcatraz and Angel Island. The boat also steers along the breath-taking shorelines of Tiburon, Belvedere, and Sausalito. Watch the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, as you sail west towards the Golden Gate Bridge. On your way back to Fisherman’s Wharf, you will see many more famous sights, including the Presidio, the Marina District, and Fort Mason. This 2 hour cruise provides impressive views in a relaxed atmosphere. Included in the price for the cruise is one drink (beer, wine or soda) and buffet-style snacks from North Beach. Snacks included in the price. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the 1 Hour Red and White Fleet Sunset Cruise. You book the Sunset Cruise and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | 2 Hour Sunset Cruise | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 48.00 | $ 72.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 48.00 | $ 71.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 24.50 | $ 34.00 | $ 58.50 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 34.00 | $ 49.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your California Sunset Cruise Online 2. After we recieve your Cruise order we will reserve
Alcatraz as a second tour on same day for you. Alcatraz is charged
as a second credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will
receive 2 confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning or
early afternoon departure based on availability. |
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COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND 2 HOUR CALIFORNIA SUNSET CRUISE - 2 GREAT ACTIVITIES
ON THE BAY !  COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND GUIDED WATERFRONT SEGWAY TOUR ! |
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Dates and Times: Segway
Daily 9:00 AM April until October. 10:30 AM November - March - Alcatraz
booked as an afternoon departure. The San Francisco Segway Tour is the most sensational way to see the city by the bay! You will love gliding through the waterfront on a Segway Human Transporter. This journey will take you to the best views and hidden locations. A city as unique as San Francisco demands a one-of-a-kind way to tour it. And the Segway is the answer! Tours are by reservation only. Reserve Now! Tour Overview: After a 45 minute training on how to safely operate the Segway , you'll explore the San Francisco waterfront for over two hours! Advance reservations are required. Tours are limited to nine riders and ages 12 and up are welcome. All tours start on time, so please arrive 15 minutes early. Tours meet at 757 Beach Street at Hyde. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the Waterfront Segway Tour. You book the Segway Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Segway Day Tour | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 70.00 | $ 94.50 |
| Senior (62-65) | $ 23.25 | $ 70.00 | $ 93.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 13.75 | $ 70.00 | $ 83.75 |
| Children under 12 are not permitted on the Segway Tour. If you are traveling with Children under 12 we suggest the City Tour and Alcatraz Combo. | |||
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve the Waterfront Segway Tour online. 2. After we recieve your Segway Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz
as a second tour on same day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for an afternoon departure
based on availability. |
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| COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND GUIDED SEGWAY NIGHT TOUR ! |
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Dates and Times: Segway Night
Tour: 4:30 PM Friday and Saturday Nights. November - March or 7:00
PM April -October- Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights. Alcatraz
as an AM Departure - Alcatraz booked as an morning or early afternoon
departure. The San Francisco Nighttime Segway Tour is the most sensational way to see the city by the bay! You will love gliding through the waterfront on a Segway Human Transporter. This nighttime journey will take you to the best views and hidden locations. A city as unique as San Francisco demands a one-of-a-kind way to tour it. And the Segway is the answer! Tours are by reservation only. Reserve Now! Tour Overview: After a 35-45 minute training on how to safely operate the Segway, you'll explore the San Francisco at night. Reservations are required. Tours are limited to nine riders and ages 12 and up are welcome. All tours start on time, so please arrive 15 minutes early. Tours meet at 757 Beach Street at Hyde. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the 2 Hour Segway Night Tour. You book the Segway Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Segway Night Tour | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 70.00 | $ 94.50 |
| Senior (62-65) | $ 23.25 | $ 70.00 | $ 93.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 13.75 | $ 70.00 | $ 83.75 |
| Children under 12 are not permitted on the Segway Tour. If you are traveling with Children under 12 we suggest the City Tour and Alcatraz Combo. | |||
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve the Segway Night Tour Online 2. After we recieve your Segway Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz
as a second tour on same day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning or early afternoon
departure based on availability. |
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 COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND HOP ON HOP OFF DOUBLE DECKER BUS DOWNTOWN LOOP
TOUR |
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Dates and Times:
Daily - Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Tour Departing 11:00 AM, 1:00
PM and 3:00 PM . Alcatraz based on availability. The newest way to see San Francisco is with our open top double-decker bus tour. The fully narrated tour departs at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM . The fully narrated one hour tour departs throughout the day and passes most of the major attractions in San Francisco. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the Double Decker Tour . You book the Double Decker Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Double Decker Downtown Tour | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (12-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 30.00 | $ 54.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 30.00 | $ 53.25 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 20.00 | $ 35.75 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Downtown Tour online
2. After we recieve your Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Same Day for you. Alcatraz
is charged as a second credit card charged at the rates listed above.
You will receive 2 confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked for a morning
or afternoon departure based on availability. |
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| COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND HOP ON HOP OFF DOUBLE DECKER BUS 2 FOR 1 LOOPS
- GOLDEN GATE LOOP PLUS DOWNTOWN LOOP TOUR |
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Dates and Times:
Daily - Double Decker Hop On Hop Off Golden Gate Tour Departing
12:00 NOON, 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM . Alcatraz based on availability. Double Decker San Francisco 2 for 1 Loops Tour:
The newest way to see San Francisco is with our open top double-decker
bus tours. The fully narrated Downtown Loop Tour departs
hourly from 9:00am to 4:00pm and stops at all of the major attractions
in San Francisco. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and the 2 for 1 Double Decker Loops Tours . You book the Double Decker Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Double Decker 2 For 1 Downtown and Golden Gate Loops Tours | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (12-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 50.00 | $ 74.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 50.00 | $ 73.25 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 32.00 | $ 47.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your Hop On Hop Off 2 For 1 Double Decker Loops Tours
online. 2. After we recieve your Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Same Day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second credit card charged at the rates
listed above. You will receive 2 confirmations. Alcatraz will be booked
for a morning or early afternoon departure based on availability. |
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2 DAY COMBINATION TOURS - SEE ALCATRAZ AS PART OF A TWO DAY PACKAGE
 COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND WINE COUNTRY TOUR |
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Dates and Times:
Daily, 9:00 AM Alcatraz Ferry time will be confirmed based on availability.
Hotel Pick up Available. Tour California's Wine Country - Take in the best of California's world famous premium wine making region. You will be part of a group of 12 people or fewer. This small size tour adds a personal touch and allows more flexibility in winery visits. Deli lunch is included in the tour and is usually eaten at a picnic area in one of the vineyards. Must be 21 for Wine Tasting. The valleys of Napa and Sonoma lie 30 miles north of San Francisco and make up North America's premium wine making region. 1st stop is the Golden Gate Bridge for a 10 minute photo stop. The trip heads North through the rolling hills and scenery of Marin County. Your tour enters the wine country in the southern region of Carneros, just south of Sonoma. You will visit between 3 and 4 wineries in either Sonoma and/or Napa, including both a large vineyard and a smaller boutique winery. Your visit will include winery tours, wine education and some free wine tasting. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz and Wine Country Tour. You book the Wine Country Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Wine Country Tour & Hotel Pick up | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 65.00 | $ 89.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 65.00 | $ 88.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 24.50 | $ 65.00 | $ 89.50 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 49.00 | $ 64.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
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| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve Wine Country Tour online. 2. After we recieve your Wine Country Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Next Day for you. Alcatraz is charged as a second
credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will receive 2
confirmations. |
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| COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY PLUS MUIR WOODS AND WINE COUNTRY TOUR |
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Dates and Times:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday 9:00 AM. Alcatraz
Ferry time will be confirmed based on availability. Hotel
Pick up Available. Muir Woods and Wine Country: The ONLY tour combining the two most popular destinations outside of San Francisco ! Groups no larger than 15 make this a great way to travel. The 8 hour Muir Woods National Park & Wine Country Tour starts in San Francisco and heads north to an extended stop in Muir Woods National Monument. We make a stop for light lunch and touring in the town of Sonoma (lunch cost not included) The afternoon is spent in Sonoma Valley for Wine tasting at 2-3 vineyards and then back through Sausalito and returning to San Francisco. Must be 21 for Wine Tasting. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz Ferry and the Muir Woods and Wine Country Tour. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Muir Woods and Wine Country Tour & Hotel Pick up | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 75.00 | $ 99.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 75.00 | $ 98.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 24.50 | $ 75.00 | $ 99.50 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 65.00 | $ 80.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
|
||
| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your Muir Woods + Wine Country Tour online. 2. After we recieve your Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Next Day for you. Alcatraz is charged
as a second credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will
receive 2 confirmations. |
|
||
 COMBO
ALCATRAZ FERRY AND MONTEREY AND CARMEL TOUR |
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Dates and Times: Monday,
Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday- 9:00 AM Alcatraz Ferry time
will be confirmed based on availability. Hotel
Pick up Available. California has one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world. Our route South on Highway 1 travels through the beach town of Santa Cruz. Every turn features one spectacular view after another. Scheduled stops on the tour include: Steinbeck's Cannery Row in Monterey, the gallery and restaurant district of Carmel-by-the-Sea and spectacular vistas along the 17 Mile Drive tm including Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Lone Cypress, Your tour returns through Silicon Valley, the high tech capital of the world. Rates are a combination of the published retail prices for Alcatraz Ferry and the Monterey Carmel Tour. You book the Monterey Tour and we book the 2nd Alcatraz reservation for you. |
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| Guest | Ferry & Audio Tour | Monterey and Carmel Tour & Hotel Pick up | YOU PAY: Combination Total |
| Adult (18-61) | $ 24.50 | $ 65.00 | $ 89.50 |
| Senior (62+) | $ 23.25 | $ 65.00 | $ 88.25 |
| Juniors (12-17) | $ 24.50 | $ 65.00 | $ 89.50 |
| Child (5-11) | $ 15.25 | $ 45.00 | $ 60.25 |
| Child (Under 5) | Free | Free | Free |
| More
Information |
|
||
| INSTRUCTIONS:
1. You Reserve your Monterey and Carmel Tour online. 2. After we recieve your Tour order we will reserve Alcatraz as a Second Tour on Next Day for you. Alcatraz is charged
as a second credit card charged at the rates listed above. You will
receive 2 confirmations. |
|
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ALCATRAZ FERRY AND GENERAL TOUR INFO
Cruise
aboard the Alcatraz Ferry to the infamous and notorious former federal
prison - home to the likes of Al Capone, George "Machine Gun"
Kelley, and Robert "The Birdman" Stroud. The National Park presents
a captioned orientation video with historical footage, self-guided walks,
exhibits and Ranger-interpretive talks on topics such as "Famous
Escapes." Also included is an Award-winning audio headset tour in
the prison Cell House with actual interviews of former guards and inmates
- available in six languages - English, French, German, Italian, Japanese
and Spanish.
After a short 10 minute ferry ride from Pier 33 (new point of departure) across San Francisco Bay you will arrive on the infamous Alcatraz Island. The tour includes a movie of Alcatraz history and a 35 minute audio headset tour of an Alcatraz cell block. This audio tour is available in 6 languages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.
To reach the Cell House, you must walk up a steep hill. In addition to the famous prison, Alcatraz features some of the most spectacular views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge from the beautifully landscaped Agave Trail.
Please
note that the walk to the Alcatraz Cell house is on steep, uneven pavement.
SEAT (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) is available for wheelchair
users and visitors unable to walk to quarter mile, 12% upgrade. No animals
(except certified service animals) are allowed on Alcatraz Island. After
the tour there is time to visit the Alcatraz Museum, the bookshop and
explore the island. Stay as long as you like – ferries depart every
1/2 hour back to San Francisco. Average time spent on Alcatraz is 1 1/2
- 3 hours.
Alcatraz is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The ferry service is a concessionaire of the National Park Service. TourCorp is not affiliated with the ferry service, Alcatraz or the National Park Service.
Confirmation & Travel Vouchers By ordering one of these combination ferry and tours your authorize "TourCorp" to purchase Alcatraz Ferry tickets from Alcatraz Cruises for your use. You will receive two separate confirmations and two credit card charges.
IMPORTANT: ALCATRAZ FERRY AND AUDIO TOUR: ALL ALCATRAZ SALES ARE FINAL The National Park Pass is not applicable to the Alcatraz Tour. No exchanges, refunds or cancellations. You may purchase a maximum of 8 tickets on the web for Alcatraz. Alcatraz is a National Park and does not offer any refunds or discounts.
For every confirmed booking you will receive 2 E-Mails with your E-Ticket Vouchers - when both parts of your combo tour booking are confirmed.
Please present the 1st E-Ticket voucher at the Box Office/ Tour Office/Tour Driver for your Cruise or Tour. The 2nd e-mail will be your voucher for the Alcatraz Ferry Reservation. Your Alcatraz Tickets will be held at Pre-Paid Will Call at the Alcatraz Cruises terminal at Pier 33. When you present your Alcatraz voucher, picture ID, reservation confirmation number and/or credit card used on the reservation transaction the boarding tickets are issued. Be sure to show up 30 to 45 minutes before your cruise time! Alcatraz tickets may not be picked up prior to the tour date.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Why will I receive two orders ? Why isn't the Alcatraz cost on my 1st order ?
A. We will send your order confirmation in 2 separate emails: 1 for your Tour - booked with the Sightseeing Tour or Bay Cruise Company and a second for Alcatraz Ferry. Your 1st tour order will not included the Alcatraz ticket cost. The Alcatraz Ferry and Audio tour ticket is run as a separate order and credit card transaction.
Q. Why is there a confirmation delay between the two orders.
The 2 orders are confirmed by 2 different companies. We put the orders through both systems as fast as they are placed. Do not assume that your Alcatraz part of your combination ticket is booked until you receive the Alcatraz "print at home" ticket.
Q. Why can't I buy only an Alcatraz Ticket from your company ?
We book Alcatraz tickets (with no markup or service fees) as a service for our customers. We are in the Sightseeing sales business and want you to enjoy one of our many tour and activities in addition to visiting Alcatraz. Compare and Save: See and Compare Other Website Alcatraz Prices Here
Q: How do I reserve my tickets? I need some instructions.
You select and reserve your sightseeing tour or cruise online. We will reserve your Alcatraz ferry and audio tour tickets for you. You will receive 2 different email "print at home" tickets. The 1st "print at home" ticket is for your sightseeing tour or cruise. The second "print at home ticket: is for the the Alcatraz Ferry and Audio tour. Your Alcatraz Ferry and Tour is NOT confirmed until you receive the Alcatraz "print at home" ticket via e-mail. Alcatraz is based on availability. Do not assume that your Alcatraz part of your combination ticket is booked until you receive the Alcatraz "print at home" ticket.
MORE GREAT ALCATRAZ INFORMATION AND HISTORY
Alcatraz Island sits isolated amidst the cold winds of the bay. Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala named this foreboding rock for the pelicans nesting there. This infamous island, the subject of legend, lore and a few Hollywood movies, once held scores of prisoners incarcerated above its cliffs.... more
BRIEF ALCATRAZ HISTORY
PRISON First used as a prison by the U.S. Army during the Civil War, "The Rock" became a maximum security penitentiary in 1934, during the post-Prohibition, post-Depression America. Federal officials talked about creating a special prison for kidnappers, racketeers, and individuals guilty of predatory crimes. In fact, the public peace seemed constantly threatened by crime - and Alcatraz seemed to be the ideal response to that threat.
©2002 B. HuberAt first, Alcatraz was somewhat of an experiment. Prisoners from other institutions who were especially difficult to manage were sent here. This type of segregation had never been practiced before, but it worked well enough to serve as a model for the federal prison located in Marion, Illinois.
Though Alcatraz is thought to have housed many notorious criminals, only a handful of truly famous names did time on this harsh island. Mobster Al Capone, bank robber Leon "Whitey" Thompson, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, and the "Birdman of Alcatraz," Robert Stroud (who, by the way, was not permitted to continue his avian studies during his 17 years on the island). Numerous escapes (36 to be exact) were attempted, though there is no evidence that anyone ever made it through the icy, shark-infested waters to freedom.
The prison closed in 1964 due to prohibitive operating costs.
NATIVE
AMERICAN OCCUPATION
Prior to the coming of the Spanish and Portuguese explorers, over 10,000
indigenous people, later to be called the Ohlone (a Miwok Indian word
meaning "western people"), lived in the coastal area between
Point Sur and the San Francisco Bay. Native American oral histories suggest
that tribal members were isolated or ostracized on Alcatraz when they
violated a tribal law or taboo. Other stories cite the island's use as
a camping spot, an area for gathering foods, especially bird eggs and
sea-life, and a hiding place for many Indians attempting to escape from
the California Mission system.
On November 9, 1969, Richard Oakes, a Mohawk Indian, and a group of Indian supporters set out in a chartered boat, the Monte Cristo, to symbolically claim the island for the Indian people. On November 20, 1969, this symbolic occupation turned into a full scale occupation which lasted until June 11, 1971.
The Indians' demands were clear: they wanted the deed to the island, and they wanted to establish an Indian university, a cultural center, and a museum. The government refused to negotiate and insisted that they leave the island. By early 1970, the Indian's organization on the island began to disintegrate to such a point that Oakes left the island. After many months of declining leadership on the island and government attempts to oust the Native Americans and the growing drug culture, President Nixon gave the go ahead to develop a removal plan -- to take place when the smallest number of people were on the island and to use as little force as possible.
On June 10, 1971, the occupation ended. Shortly thereafter, the official government policy of termination of Indian tribes was ended and a policy of Indian self-determination became the official US government policy.
ALCATRAZ TODAY
The National Park Service administers Alcatraz Island as a unit of the Golden Gate
National Recreation Area (GGNRA). A variety of tours of the island are offered -
for more information, visit www.nps.gov/alcatraz/
See the West Coast's first, and oldest operating, lighthouse and enjoy the island's
many natural features - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and breathtaking bay views.
Be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a jacket.
Take a quick Virtual Tour
with our online Slide Show.
If Alcatraz is Sold Out or you will be visiting Fisherman's Wharf, buy a
Wharf Pass.
Save with this One Low Price Admission Pass to the best Wharf Attractions,
Tours and Cruises.
Updated 01-08-07 Copyright TourCorp Inc. 2003-08 All Rights Reserved
TOUR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS 415-474-9855
TOLL FREE RESERVATIONS 877-474-3127
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