2024 San Francisco Fleet Week – The Best View For The Air Show Is On The Bay.

2023 fleet week

Get ready for a week of high-flying fun! San Francisco Fleet Week kicks off on October 7, 2024, and runs through October 15, 2024. This action-packed event honors the men and women (and canine heroes!) of the United States Navy-Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The Blue Angels, the superstars of the Fleet Week Air Show, will dazzle the skies on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (October 11, 12, & 13). Want a sneak peek? Catch their Thursday afternoon practice session for a less crowded experience. Other jaw-dropping performers include the Marine F-35B Demo, United 777, Ace Maker T-33, Patriots Jet Team, Coast Guard Dual Demo – Helos and C-27, Navy Parachute Team: The Leap Frogs, and more. Mark your calendars because Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are loaded with aerial excitement!

In addition to honoring those who serve, San Francisco Fleet Week offers a wide range of events for everyone to enjoy. These include opportunities to see ships on the water and to get on board and tour some of the visiting vessels. There are free concerts, and the most exciting events, drawing the biggest crowds, are the awe-inspiring air shows. Fleet Week is a prime opportunity to see the incredible Blue Angels, some of the best pilots in the world, perform breathtaking stunts and feats of skill. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline the waterfront event, and San Francisco Fleet Week is the only air show in the United States where a commercial airliner, the United 777, performs a fully choreographed act. The schedule is yet to be published, so keep checking the Fleet Week website for event times.

The Fun and Fascinating History of Fleet Week

Did you know Fleet Week started way back in 1898 after the Spanish-American War, when naval vessels would arrive at the harbor in grand style. Fast forward to 1981, and Fleet Week sailed into the Bay Area, thanks to then-Mayor Dianne Feinstein. She kicked off a spectacular celebration honoring Navy sailors, Marines, the Coast Guard, and their families with ship parades, breathtaking airshows, and a variety of local events.

San Francisco’s Fleet Week quickly became the gold standard, even recognized by the United States Department of Defense as the model for Fleet Weeks across the country. This annual extravaganza has been a Bay Area favorite ever since, drawing tourists and locals alike to join in the fun and marvel at the impressive displays. So come be a part of history, soak in the excitement, and enjoy one of the most thrilling events on the West Coast!

The Ultimate Way to Experience the Fleet Week Air Show

Sail into the Spectacle on Your Private Yacht

Why get lost in the crowds when you can have a front-row seat to the action from the deck of your own private yacht? Chartering a boat for Fleet Week offers a VIP experience that’s hard to beat. On our private charters, you and your closest friends, family, co-workers, will enjoy gourmet food and drinks, all while having a private, unobstructed view of the breathtaking air shows, boat parades, and iconic San Francisco landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Angel Island. 

Ditch the Traffic and Crowds

Skip the hassle of heavy traffic and crowded viewing spots. Your yacht leaves and returns to a private marina, ensuring a smooth and relaxing day on the water. As your captain navigates, you can sit back, relax, and take in all the sights and sounds of Fleet Week up close and personal. Whether you book a full day or just a few hours for the Blue Angels or ship parades, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.

Don’t Miss the Blue Angels

The Blue Angels are the stars of the show, and missing their performance would be a huge mistake. These pilots put on one of the most thrilling live events in the world, showcasing their incredible skill and precision. Their aerial acrobatics will leave you awestruck and eager for a return visit. Alongside the Blue Angels, you’ll witness a variety of other impressive aircraft and get an up-close look at the majestic naval vessels.

Fleet Week San Francisco Air Show

The centerpiece of Fleet Week is the San Francisco Air Show, happening Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm. This four-hour aerial extravaganza culminates in a spectacular performance by the Blue Angels. Even if you’ve seen them before, their ever-changing choreography keeps things fresh and thrilling. This all-ages show is a must-see, showcasing some of the most talented pilots and aircraft in the world. Don’t miss out on this incredible display of skill and precision!

Ready to Set Sail?

Interested in chartering a yacht? Check out our options and FAQs on our site. San Francisco can be a bit windy and chilly, but the views are so worth it. Prepare for an adventure of a lifetime with spectacular sights and a unique perspective on Fleet Week.

Must-See Fleet Week Events After Your Charter

pier 39 fleet week

Fleet Week San Francisco Ship Tours

Once you’re back on land, dive into the Fleet Week San Francisco Ship Tours! Arrival times and schedules are announced just a few days ahead, so keep an eye on the Fleet Week website for updates. These free tours are a hit, with long lines forming fast. Arrive early to snag a spot and enjoy mingling with the sailors on board.

 

Fleet Week Neighborhood Concert Series

Enjoy the musical side of Fleet Week with the Neighborhood Concert Series. Navy and Marine Corps bands light up various neighborhoods throughout the city, delivering electrifying performances. Check the 2024 concert schedule for dates and locations. Plus, you’ll be near some of the best food and drink spots in San Francisco, adding to the festive vibe.

Why You Absolutely Can’t Miss Fleet Week From A Private Chartered Yacht!

Ready for one of the most exciting events of the year? Fleet Week in San Francisco is a must-see extravaganza, and here’s why you should mark your calendar:

  • Sky-High Thrills: The Blue Angels and other elite pilots will leave you breathless with their stunning aerial maneuvers. This is one of the most thrilling live shows on the planet!
  • Parade of Ships

  • Start Fleet Week with a bang by catching the Parade of Ships. Watch in awe as these magnificent vessels glide under the Golden Gate Bridge and dock in San Francisco. It’s a breathtaking sight you won’t want to miss!
  • Perfect Weather: October offers the best weather on the San Francisco Bay. Say goodbye to summer fog and hello to sunny skies and excellent visibility, making it the ideal time to enjoy being out on the water.
  • Iconic Views: Watching from a private chartered yacht, the views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, the San Francisco City Front and the decorated boats are simply spectacular.
  • Delicious Catering & Dining: San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise. Fleet Week gives you the perfect excuse to indulge in the city’s world-renowned restaurants and vibrant food scene.
  • Lively Atmosphere: The city comes alive with excitement during Fleet Week. From bustling streets to festive neighborhoods, the energy is contagious.
  • Unique Experiences: Hop aboard naval vessels for free ship tours, interact with sailors, and learn about life at sea. Don’t miss the Parade of Ships, a grand sight as vessels sail under the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Family Fun: Fleet Week offers something for everyone, making it a fantastic outing for families. The impressive air shows from a private charter, and interactive tours will keep all ages entertained.
  • Support Our Heroes: Show your appreciation for the men, women, and even canine heroes of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Your presence honors their dedication and service.
  • Escape the Crowds: For the ultimate comfort and best views, charter a yacht. Enjoy a VIP experience with gourmet food, drinks, and a private, unobstructed view of all the action.
  • Adventure Awaits: Beyond the Fleet Week festivities, San Francisco offers beautiful hotels, thriving nightlife, endless sightseeing, and spectacular hiking opportunities.

READY TO JOIN THE FUN?

Ready to join the fun in San Francisco? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Fleet Week is your chance to experience everything San Francisco has to offer! It’s no wonder people come from near and far to be a part of it! So, grab your family, friends, co-workers, hop aboard a private yacht for the best seat in the house, and let’s make some unforgettable memories at Fleet Week 2024! Complete this form to get a charter recommendation and rate for your Fleet Week Experience. 

Get two free online sailing courses