Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay
Docked boat in Belvedere Tiburon, CA
6 guests · 3 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Top-tier experienceOne of the higher cost properties in the area
Includes essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi, Parking and more
About this docked boat rental
As seen on Netflix "Worlds Most Amazing Vacation Rentals" S1 E3. https://www.netflix.com/watch/81108261?source=35
One of the world's most spectacular homes is now available as a vacation rental. This is the American equivalent of renting a castle in Spain or an ancient stone villa in Tuscany. Yet with the luxury and conveniences of a five star hotel.
The SS City of Seattle (Yellow Ferry) was originally launched in 1888. She is the oldest surviving ferryboat on the West Coast. The Ferry combines luxury and convenience in a spectacular and memorable setting. Surrounded by open water, she is simply the best houseboat in the best berth. Suitable for couples, or families, the Yellow Ferry offers the vacation experience of a lifetime.
The rental suite on the Yellow Ferry is over 2,500 square feet. One enters the Ferry into an open great room that is over 1,000 square ft, but divided into separate areas for dining and lounging. Surrounded by floor to ceiling windows looking out to the bay, the main room is both spacious and intimate. The original deck consists of three-inch thick, virgin Douglas Fir, inlaid with Teak. You will quickly find there is a timeless and soothing quality to being surrounded by 120 year old wooden timbers and beams.
Off the living room is huge solarium, surrounded by glass doors. Here you can sit or dine feeling like you are perched over the water, looking at panoramic views of the Bay, the sailboats and Mt. Tamalpais. The solarium is connected the living room via four large sliding doors, which can be opened all the way to make it an extension of the living room.
The carpeted master bedroom features a new, California King bed. Water level views allow you a birds eye connection with the egrets, mallards and harbor seals. Large walk-in closets add to the feeling of luxury. The expansive master bathroom also has bay views and and a tub and walk-in shower.
Down below, the other two bedrooms also have views right above waterline, where seals and waterfowl can swim up and eyeball you.
The kitchen has been remodeled with an extraordinary Wolf six-burner range, with a gas grill and huge oven. The set up is perfect for gourmet meals or reheating your leftovers from one of the many excellent local restaurants. The kitchen is abundantly stocked with all the necessary pots, pans, utensils and appliances. There is a full table setting for 10 and uncharacteristically for a rental, all the knives have been freshly sharpened.
The float containing all watercraft is right off the back deck, providing easy access to the three kayaks and three stand-up paddle boards.
The Ferry is conveniently located between the natural beauty of the northern coast and the cosmopolitan charms of San Francisco. You can attend almost any event in the City and be home at the Ferry before you would find a parking place in San Francisco. A small library adjacent to the kitchen is stocked with books and tip and local attractions,
There are an infinite variety of diversions to be found within a 30 minute drive of the boat. But often the best thing to do is simply sit by the bay with a good book, occasionally looking up to see the harbor seals or migrating waterfowl.
The Ferry is owned by the same couple who own the harbor. We live on the Ferry in a completely separate unit with its own entrance and can be there to assist with any of your questions.
Please be aware that when then you stay on a houseboat, you are a guest in a close knit community of fellow houseboaters. These home owners have chosen to live on the water because of a shared love of nature and a considerate community. It is essential that you respect the community rights to peace and privacy and conduct your residency the same way you would expect from a next-door neighbor. It is absolutely critical that you read the rules and regulations that will be linked when you book. If you have trouble finding the rules and regulations, please confirm with me and I will send you the PDF separately.
Also, the entire ferry is 8,000 square feet. We could not find our keys in our own 2,600 sf side, so we could never imagine filling that kind of room. Therefore be aware we live next door, separated by relatively sound proof walls. There is also a full harbor shop down below that serves the maintenance of the marina, which we also own.
As a final note, the Ferry is not available for birthday parties, cocktail parties, weddings, business retreats, or other large gatherings. We tried that from time to time and it is just too crazy and takes a toll on our home.
One of the world's most spectacular homes is now available as a vacation rental. This is the American equivalent of renting a castle in Spain or an ancient stone villa in Tuscany. Yet with the luxury and conveniences of a five star hotel.
The SS City of Seattle (Yellow Ferry) was originally launched in 1888. She is the oldest surviving ferryboat on the West Coast. The Ferry combines luxury and convenience in a spectacular and memorable setting. Surrounded by open water, she is simply the best houseboat in the best berth. Suitable for couples, or families, the Yellow Ferry offers the vacation experience of a lifetime.
The rental suite on the Yellow Ferry is over 2,500 square feet. One enters the Ferry into an open great room that is over 1,000 square ft, but divided into separate areas for dining and lounging. Surrounded by floor to ceiling windows looking out to the bay, the main room is both spacious and intimate. The original deck consists of three-inch thick, virgin Douglas Fir, inlaid with Teak. You will quickly find there is a timeless and soothing quality to being surrounded by 120 year old wooden timbers and beams.
Off the living room is huge solarium, surrounded by glass doors. Here you can sit or dine feeling like you are perched over the water, looking at panoramic views of the Bay, the sailboats and Mt. Tamalpais. The solarium is connected the living room via four large sliding doors, which can be opened all the way to make it an extension of the living room.
The carpeted master bedroom features a new, California King bed. Water level views allow you a birds eye connection with the egrets, mallards and harbor seals. Large walk-in closets add to the feeling of luxury. The expansive master bathroom also has bay views and and a tub and walk-in shower.
Down below, the other two bedrooms also have views right above waterline, where seals and waterfowl can swim up and eyeball you.
The kitchen has been remodeled with an extraordinary Wolf six-burner range, with a gas grill and huge oven. The set up is perfect for gourmet meals or reheating your leftovers from one of the many excellent local restaurants. The kitchen is abundantly stocked with all the necessary pots, pans, utensils and appliances. There is a full table setting for 10 and uncharacteristically for a rental, all the knives have been freshly sharpened.
The float containing all watercraft is right off the back deck, providing easy access to the three kayaks and three stand-up paddle boards.
The Ferry is conveniently located between the natural beauty of the northern coast and the cosmopolitan charms of San Francisco. You can attend almost any event in the City and be home at the Ferry before you would find a parking place in San Francisco. A small library adjacent to the kitchen is stocked with books and tip and local attractions,
There are an infinite variety of diversions to be found within a 30 minute drive of the boat. But often the best thing to do is simply sit by the bay with a good book, occasionally looking up to see the harbor seals or migrating waterfowl.
The Ferry is owned by the same couple who own the harbor. We live on the Ferry in a completely separate unit with its own entrance and can be there to assist with any of your questions.
Please be aware that when then you stay on a houseboat, you are a guest in a close knit community of fellow houseboaters. These home owners have chosen to live on the water because of a shared love of nature and a considerate community. It is essential that you respect the community rights to peace and privacy and conduct your residency the same way you would expect from a next-door neighbor. It is absolutely critical that you read the rules and regulations that will be linked when you book. If you have trouble finding the rules and regulations, please confirm with me and I will send you the PDF separately.
Also, the entire ferry is 8,000 square feet. We could not find our keys in our own 2,600 sf side, so we could never imagine filling that kind of room. Therefore be aware we live next door, separated by relatively sound proof walls. There is also a full harbor shop down below that serves the maintenance of the marina, which we also own.
As a final note, the Ferry is not available for birthday parties, cocktail parties, weddings, business retreats, or other large gatherings. We tried that from time to time and it is just too crazy and takes a toll on our home.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Wheelchair accessible
Map of Belvedere Tiburon, CA
$$$$
Reviews
10.0
If you want a unique experience, this is the place. The history, the location, and the view are all amazing. Would stay here again.
10.0
It was a wonderful experience in a unique setting that had myself and friends in awe! We loved every minute! Want to go back!
10.0
Can I add more stars? Our week-long stay at the Yellow Ferry was sublime. The property is roomy, with a great view of the bay from each room. Kitchen has everything you need to cook in each night, but great restaurants nearby as well. Property manager very communicative, in and out was soooooo easy.
The use of the paddleboards and kayaks was the best part of our trip, as well as the 200+ degree view from the decks. Quaint, scenic, private, and majestic. I cannot emphasize how amazing this property is--we cannot wait to go back!
10.0
Nice, relaxing time.
10.0
What a wonderful place to stay. Such a fun and enjoyable home! My children loved it and so did we. We can't wait to stay here again.
10.0
The Yellow Ferry is everything promised by the posting--gorgeous, homey, well-appointed. It was a perfect place for a family getaway to celebrate a milestone birthday with adult children at hand. We loved cooking in the kitchen, hanging out together in beautiful living space, and watching the waterfowl and light on the bay outside. Sausalito was also a great location to explore further--great food, walking the Golden Gate, discovering bookstores and shops. We'll be back.
10.0
This location and ferry boat was terrific- will come back !
10.0
We had a wonderful visit staying on the Yellow Ferry boat. The accommodations were great and the nearby shuttle to Muir Woods was very convenient.
10.0
Oh what fun - staying on the Yellow Ferry was a dream come true. We loved the houseboat community, the tides, the wildlife, and the scenery. The boat was very comfortable and well appointed (and a little dated.) And, we would return!
10.0
Very unique, comfortable property in a beautiful, peaceful bay with easy access to great seafood, hiking, town of Sausalito or to the city. About a15 minutes drive and we were parked at Pier 39. Had seals swimming near by every day and owners even provided binoculars for watching the wildlife. Really enjoyed our stay, and would definitely do it again
10.0
Our second stay on the Yellow Ferry - for four weeks this time!! Loved it - and will definitely be back.
10.0
Generally, our stay was fantastic! There were, however a few little issues that could've made the stay from a 3.5 to a 5! The upstairs toilet could not take any toilet paper. If there was any, it would flood to the rim. Downstairs bathroom, the lever stuck, thus having the water pump run for hours without our knowledge of it! The owner/property manager knocks on the door at 2:30am, assuming that we "left the shower on!" He then told me that he'll meet me downstairs, through a connecting door only to realize that it was the toilet lever sticking up, allowing the water to run. Easy fix! Another issue, was the newly painted surface to the kayaks and paddleboards. Waited a day before we could go to the dock to access the water toys. It's a strict check-in time, which we adhered to, but, when we got there, we couldn't access the water, which we had planned on. The beauty of Sausilito, it's ambience and the property was very beautiful. The kitchen was excellent! The fireplace and living room area is charming! The dining room area, we couldn't open all the doors to take in the air of sunset. I would suggest to have the windows cleaned to have a nicer and clearer view. The bedrooms were nice but could use newer bedding and an update on the bedroom decor. Other than that, we had a wonderful stay at the Yellow Ferry! It is a very pretty property!
10.0
Owners are responsive and helpful
10.0
GREAT!
5.0
Thoroughly enjoyed this houseboat. All the comforts of home right on the water. Whenever we’re in SF we’ll be staying here!
10.0
This is an iconic houseboat in the Sausalito houseboat community and the space is just gorgeous. Huge, fully stocked kitchen with a Wolf range, everything was as promised in the description.
I would recommend this for anyone who would like to experience a unique and wonderful lifestyle in a truly beautiful place.
5.0
Staying on a historical ferry that was turned into a charming apartment is a wonderful experience. The setting with the marine wildlife so calming and peaceful, but there's plenty to do nearby. It's a treat to be part of the houseboat community even if for a short time.
5.0
The Yellow Ferry is terrific. Great space on the main floor with super views and lots of windows. Outstanding master suite - the other 2 bedrooms are nice as well. If you are planning on a trip to the San Francisco area stay here!
5.0
A magical place and one of a kind gem!
5.0
Staying at this ferry is a vacation in itself. The views out the open doors onto the open water we’re enjoyed from the indoor porch swing or deck seating. We watched harbor seals and birds all day when we weren’t kayaking or paddle boarding from the provided equipment. The history of the boat added to the unique experience. Equipped with a washer/dryer, full kitchen, multiple bathrooms made for a comfortable experience. There were games for the family to enjoy while taking in the views. Best part of our vacation was staying on this yellow ferry.
5.0
As a paycheck to paycheck family, we are picky about saving for a vacation. So glad that we spent our vacation money on the Yellow Ferry. Totally worth it.
5.0
My family and I loved visiting Sausalito. The house boat is beautiful and well appointed. My kids loved being able to kayak every day. I highly recommend!
5.0
Staying on the yellow ferry boat was the best experience I have had with a vacation rental. One-of-a-kind experience, close to everything with breathtaking panoramic views. The pictures on VRBO do not capture how beautiful the views are, truly amazing experience. Beds were extremely comfortable and the ferry had a lot of fun, eclectic artwork and pottery throught the boat. All adults, especially the grandchildren loved the experience!
5.0
Great shower and view
3.0
This location is one of those listings that relies on its location to carry it through. The view/history of this place is amazing! The main living area is lovely. The spacious kitchen could be great, but it needs some TLC. Items were put away dirty and several items are visibly worn. For example, the black dinner plates are severely scratched, some smaller appliances are missing parts, the only large glass bakeware dish has a chip on the handle, pots and pans are not in the best of shape. The bedrooms are very plain. The bathrooms could stand a facelift. There are no warm welcoming touches, none of the outlets on the wall facing the water work, and the board games provided are missing pieces. So just be prepared the view, the fireplace and the very nice wolf stove/range have to be enough for the price.
5.0
This was one of the nicest properties I’ve stated in, not even counting that it was a boat! Beautiful location, very well equipped space, amazing scenery. The owners do live in the other half of the boat but you are well separated from them and our half felt very private
5.0
Five friends celebrated my 70th birthday on this beautiful property. At the end of the dock nestled in a houseboat community, this restored ferry boat was much more than we had anticipated. Although four of us are prior boat owners, it is mystical and organic to experience the over 4 1/2 foot tides twice a day on a tethered house boat.
The property itself is full of books, treasures and artwork that would take weeks to fully discover. The kitchen is large and fully stocked with quality appliances and kitchen tools. This half of the ferry boat is spacious, on two levels, with multiple locations for meals, conversation, wildlife viewing, and happy hour on the decks.
Although we only saw them at check-in, the owners live on the other side of the ferry boat. When we called with a question, they answered immediately and were very responsive.
I believe Sausalito is one of the most beautiful places on earth, with nearby hiking trails through hills and valleys, through various microclimates, with views of the city, bridges, and varying treks to the ocean.
It was a perfect three day vacation, and I am now trying to re-book for four nights in September.
Thank you for making this beautiful property available to rent!
5.0
This was our first since shelter-in-place, so we were a little nervous staying in another place other than our home. This place is really clean and filled with charm. Residents in the area also practiced social distancing and wore face masks. We also loved the environmentally-friendly products.
We stayed with our elementary school aged children and they didn't want to leave the ferry boat. We loved the quiet, uninhibited ambiance and the owners were also really respectful. Thank you for making our trip so memorable!
4.0
Family, including 15 year old daughter, enjoyed the boathouse. The dock at night is just gorgeous!
5.0
This property is really cool. The main living space and the views are stunning. The photos of the bedrooms don't do the rooms justice at all. We are family of four and everyone had space to spread out during the day. The kitchen was spacious and well stocked. Kids loved the porch swing. We loved watching the wildlife. It was too cold to take advantage of the kayaks...... next time!
5.0
Score! Well-done! with a very welcoming feel. Thank you to the owners for sharing!
10.0
My family joins the choir of happy guests at the Yellow Ferry! We stayed 14 days and enjoyed every one of them. The description of the ferry creates high expectations - and the Ferry does not disappoint! It has it all and moreover, it is packed with history, great books, art and artifacts from all over the world. The 118 year old wooden floor in the living room is a masterpiece of beauty in itself, falling asleep and waking up in the master bedroom with the light coming through the spokes of the wheel is unique too. Kayaking and paddle boarding makes for great excursions and seal encounters. The 'backyard' offers great surf and beach life on the pacific coast, great MTB and road biking and of course big city life in San Francisco, if that's what you want (check out the Swan Oyster Depot as recommend by the Owner). The Owners are friendly and service-minded, you can't ask for more. Very recommendable.
10.0
The Yellow Ferry was beyond my highest expectations, and our stay was perfect. The Ferry was close to everything yet as quiet as an island unto itself. The kitchen was well equipped with supplies as well as a welcome basket. Parking was easy. Neighbors were friendly. There was even an ipad for us to use to access news ans entertainment. We loved it!
10.0
My husband and I and 4 children (ages 5-15) stayed on the Yellow Ferry for 5 nights. It was the highlight of our 10 day trip to California. We loved the beautiful views and the spaciousness of the ferry. It was really a haven for us after sightseeing all day in San Francisco. The kids also loved kayaking and paddle boarding on the water. And the owners are so nice and helpful. A wonderful place that we hope to visit again soon!
10.0
We stayed on this historic houseboat for a long weekend. It was one of the most serene places I have ever stayed. Waking up in the morning to the reflections on the water and the birds is sublime. It is amazing because all the excitement and stimulation of San Francisco is just a few minutes away over the Golden Gate. We did a day in the city and were so happy to get back to the spacious houseboat for a relaxing evening. It is extremely well equipped, so it was easy to prepare our own meal and enjoy all the comforts of home. We also spent a day exploring the sites and places just north of Sausalito. Muir Woods is so close and the Red Wood trees are just amazing. Lunch and shopping in Mill Valley is much more leisurely than the city but no less sophisticated. Again, coming back “home” to the houseboat was a great feeling. Not only is the location absolutely the best, but also the houseboat itself is so unique yet comfortable. Overall, this was the nicest weekend we have ever spent in the San Francisco area. And we spend 3 or 4 weekends a year in the area. I am confident we will be back.
8.0
The Yellow Ferry was the perfect get away for three generations of our family. The teens enjoyed the kayaks and the nearby attractions such as sailing and zip lining. The parents and grandparents appreciated the spaciousness of the living areas and the beautiful views from every room. We all loved that the owners kept the historic feel of this home, but equipped it with all the modern amenities. There are numerous restaurants and shopping within walking distance, cycling or a short easy drive. The owners were available and helpful. We would rent this property again and would recommend it.
10.0
There is a lot of history to the Yellow Ferry. It appears to be a major life work by a series of people. They did a great job. It is not like staying in a museum however. Beds, couches, kitchens and the amenities of life are all up to date and functioning. The views of the bay are magnificent. You can jump off the dock and start kayaking. There is almost none of the rolling motion that gives people their sea legs.
One of the joys of staying places that are a little different from the norm is that you can get a sense of the character of a place. The ferry exudes character. Creative and interesting people have lived here. Between the boat, the books, the artwork and the sunsets on the bay I was left wondering if I stayed long enough would I absorb some of that character?
10.0
Stepping onto the gangway of the Yellow Ferry Harbor is like stepping into another world. The air smells of ocean and seaweed, the seagulls cruise overhead, the the San Francisco Bay laps gently at your feet. Wake up to the sounds and smells of waterfront living-- enjoy a steaming hot cup of French Roast while watching the seals flop around and the water change colors in the dawn.
What I love most about this place is that it's just enough nature: I can smell it, I can see it, I can appreciate it-- and still relax with a cocktail in comfortable, sophisticated surroundings. San Francisco is an easy 10 minutes away over the Golden Gate Bridge, or just stroll around Sausalito with its world-class restaurants and cafes-- you don't even need a car.
The hosts are gracious and welcoming-- plus they know a ton about all the secret spots and best restaurants around the Bay Area. We had a fantastic, unforgettable stay-- recommend without hesitation.
10.0
This property is one of the most unique, memorable stays you will have. Our time on this restored ferry houseboat was not to be missed. The accommodations are comfortable and spacious. The houseboat owner is friendly, accommodating and helpful. The ferry boat is close enough to the town of Sausalito to enjoy all it offers, yet away enough to not be in the middle of things. Quiet, relaxing, restorative. There's no better feeling than waking up in the morning, sitting on the deck with your coffee and gazing upon the SF skyline and expanse of the water.
With a car, it's a short drive over the Golden Gate Bridge for your tour of San Francisco. Or even more fun is to take the ferry from the town to the city-a great way to travel and you will go by Alcatraz on the way (also a great day trip and tour)-then you can use public transport in the city and don't need a car or have to worry about parking on those steep hills in SF.
All in all, a fabulous property. Don't miss it! We will definitely stay there again when we return.
10.0
This is one of the most unique settings you can find in the Greater Bay Area with the most interesting group of educated, witty, and hospitable people you could ask for. Will be going back for more of the same!
FAQs
How much does this docked boat cost compared to others in Belvedere Tiburon?
The average price for a rental in Belvedere Tiburon is $418 per night. This rental is $515 above the average.
Is parking included with this docked boat?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this docked boat?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this docked boat. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this docked boat is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay?
We found 9 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, parking, and laundry.
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