These days its a state park, with some of the buildings restored as museums and others just left there. You can hike up to the top for fabulous 360-degree views, but with many little legs among the party we opted for the easier perimeter route. This was a fairly healthy five miles in itself, a fact that only became clear when it was further to go back than to keep going. Everybody just about made it.
Another reason for going was the ferry trip there and back, from Oakland via Pier 41 in SF. Its strange seeing well-known Bay landmarks from different angles, but great to have uninterrupted views of the city from both the boat and the island. Things were a bit choppy, as shown by a soaked Oliver reappearing from on deck, but the British are a nation of seafarers and we kept things shipshape and Bristol fashion.
It was an early start, so breakfast had to be bought out.
How to be extremely popular.
The ferry.
The happy Hammonds, wondering why they left the warmth of the Creek. Why do you think I never go out?
A different view of Pier 39.
Grey clouds, grey ships.
Sailing away from the city.
Maritime traffic.
Finally back on dry land.
No comments required.
Jacob in camouflage.
Sounds like a fine man!
One of the unrestored buildings - a lawsuit waiting to happen!
Energy conscious.
Part of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Just over half way around.
Picnic chaos.
Alcatraz and the city.
Appreciating the tranquility and glorious views. Strangely no one else was.
If the immigrants had had these, their stays would have been much more enjoyable.
The sun finally comes out, and this is what it's meant to look like.
Hannah and Katharine bring fuel for the ferry ride home.
Legal alien.
The cranes of Oakland bring back bad shipping container memories.
No need for a bath tonight.
