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Lovely Martha

4.3 (115 reviews)
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Nicole G.

We went on the Lovely Martha for a friends birthday party and had a BLAST! We were lucky to have great weather, and got a nice tour of the bay, under both bridges. Captain Mike was very helpful and nice. The boat had a speaker in the back but we recommend bringing an additional one for the front as it's hard to here. You can bring your own drinks and snacks.

UNFORGETTABLE DAY ON THE BAY!! Captain Mike and his outstanding deck hands Willie and Andrew went out of their way to make everything just right. Mike and crew take pride in what they do and made sure to fish on which made it so FUN .. Almost 20 of us pulled the limit, without pulling rank, ha Tell your friends, make a plan, promise you won't be disappointed!

Suzy T.

CALLING ALL SALMON FISHING peeps Our family went on on Friday 8/19 we had a great time, the cap & crew were very helpful & knowledgeable caught our limit the whole boat did well THIS is the place to be lovely martha (SF) Thank you son for a awesome trip, MOMDAD

Jay S.

I'll give 4-stars as I believe the trip we went on was as intended, but I'll never go back and I'll give a warning for anyone who is interested that doesn't know what these boats are about. These fishing trips are not for the faint of heart and even if you're tough and tolerant of terrible conditions, it can be a challenge. I am a lifelong fisherman, back packer, I do 30 mile bike rides in 40 degree rain, and this trip today kicked my ass. I brought my 14 year old son. We left SF, with Captain Mike and a crew of two, and took the boat 2 hours straight out into the ocean, and we're not prepared! It was about 50F, very windy with water spray, moments later we were soaked and shivering, it was miserable. On top of it, huge swells and boat rocking, pretty soon about 1/4 of the boat was vomiting over the edge. We were not dressed properly with light jackets and pants, if you go have a full waterproof jacket and pants, wear waterproof boots galoshes preferably. You will get soaked and freezing otherwise. Despite taking Dramamine we both started feeling sick right away, the medicine also makes you very sleepy, so we basically spent 8 hours freezing, shivering, nauseous, extremely sleepy and vomiting. Once we got to the spot the fishing was good, the boat hit its limit of Salmon in 45min, but the fishing was so insane and chaotic that it was all my son and I could do to stay out of the way of the pandemonium. I finally asked a deck hand to help my son catch a fish and they let him reel one in. We ended up with 3 nice fish. The focus here is on catching lots of fish fast, not giving paying customers a nice fishing experience. Zero concern for that. At the point the boat hit limit I was ecstatic because it meant getting off the boat faster, then it was two hours of hell driving back to SF, more nausea, exhaustion and vomiting. The other odd thing is that for each fish you catch you use a 2.5lb lead weight which just falls off and goes to the bottom of the Pacific, so each fish costs you $10 and a weight at the bottom of the ocean, there has to be a better way to do this. But if all you want is salmon, this is the most expensive and miserable way to get it. It cost about $700 for two of us to get about 10ths of salmon, so $70 a pound! LOLS. And I got an $80 parking ticket because the boat captain said I didn't need to pay because the parking ticket machine was broken, totally false. In summary, there were prepared and really happy people on this boat that didn't get sick and seemed really happy to be there (not us), we're dressed warm enough and knew how to deal with the insanity, but this isn't a fishing trip for the average person or even an advanced fresh water fisherman, be very aware.

Tyler M.

I couldn't have had a better experience with these people, Michael, his dad and crew were awesome. Will was especially helpful and attentive to everybody, ensuring we caught fish and had a good day. Highly recommended to anyone who wants a great day on the bay. I'm a beginner, but there were people with all different fishing experience, it felt like family. Support this small family owned business!!

Big king!
Alfredo G.

What an awesome crew, boat, and operation. Great vibes and great day. We were lucky enough to get our limits, this is a boat were you can shoot the shit and have some brews and/or dive deep into sportfishing with absolute pros. Equipment was top notch, boat was kept spotless, fish were immaculately processed, and the crew really goes above and beyond to give you a great experience. Andrew got creative with rigging to make sure we got a bite (everyone did), and Will could sense I wanted to learn more and taught me a ton as I tangled some makeshift rigging and tried to get more involved. Get some buddies and call captain Mike, you won't regret it.

Alcatraz Island with the eerie outline of San Francisco in the distance
Cory P.

2.9.19 All hands on deck! We were aboard the Lovely Martha for their first boat tour of the day. And although the weather was overcast with light showers, it turned out to be a thrilling and unforgettable experience. If you were to walk left, facing the Fisherman's Wharf sign, then you should see a couple of boats docked. Chances are, you'll also see someone advertising boat rides/tours. I would always keep to myself and keep on walking without giving it a second thought. However, this time, my friends encouraged for us, or well me, to give it a try. (They've done this a couple of times beforehand.) I thought to myself, why not? As advertised, the boat ride was $15 per person, in Cash. Not to mention, it's also BYOB. So if you want to enjoy a beer or two, bring some! As we boarded the boat, we scurried to the back where there was a seating area for the three of us. The rest of the boat was full! Now, the boat ride is essentially, from the docking station to the Golden Gate Bridge and back to the docking station. The whole boat ride is about 45 minutes. You'll also pass Alcatraz Island on your way back. As we departed, we busted out our beers and made a cheers for a safe trip ahead. We didn't venture too far out; if anything we rode along the coast. Now, my friends told me before hand, that they have never gotten wet during their previous trips. However, if you're familiar with Splash Mountain from Disneyland, then you'll have a good idea of how this trip went for me. Aside from the slight showers and cold, brisk wind hitting my face, there was the occasional splash from the incoming waves. As I smiled, hiding my displeasure, my friends could not stop laughing. Honestly, as I look back at it, the boat ride was actually really fun. One of the staff members walked about the boat passing out blankets for anyone who wanted one. Our tour guide speaking from the cabin through the speakers had a great sense of humor and kept a lighthearted mood through the gloomy weather. As we approached and traveled under the Golden Gate Bridge, our tour guide mentioned that we were the Only people under the Golden Gate in our universe, which to his credit, was a true statement. We turned around and made our journey back from whence we began. As we passed Alcatraz Island, dark rain clouds loomed over the distant city of San Francisco giving an eerie backdrop to the already creepy prison. As if our trip couldn't have gotten any better, a sea lion playfully followed us all the way back to our docking station. The Lovely Martha was definitely a lovely experience. Through the cold and the wet, we had an absolute blast. Can you imagine what a sunny day would be like? I can, and I would love to experience this again, rain or shine. If you're wondering what to do while in Fisherman's Wharf, a boat ride on the Lovely Martha would be my recommendation!

Tina S.

Attended a birthday party on their boat. Granted it's a fishing boat, I still had tons of fun. Friend was able to bring food and beverages on board. We started off at fisherman's wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge and to the ATT park. Views at sunset was amazing!!!

Lovely Martha Sport Fishing San Francisco
Kevin A.

The crew of the Lovely Martha was more than accomodating for me and my dad. They are wonderful and work very hard. We were absolutely new to fishing and I was able to learn the basic rundown and reelled in a couple of huge fish. Very exciting and fun. Word of cautioned to those who have not been on a boat in the ocean before. I did get sea sick in the beggining so make sure to take some anti nausea medicine before going !

Big salmon August 26 2018

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This is the best place to go fishing. First time ever going salmon fishing he so much fun.

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Review Highlights - Lovely Martha

Captain Mike and his outstanding deck hands Willie and Andrew went out of their way to make everything just right.

Mentioned in 44 reviews

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Diamond Sportfishing - Limits of halibut aboard the Lady K.

Diamond Sportfishing

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I wanted to share the experience I had with Diamond Sportfishing and Captain Kyle! WOW! We…read moregathered at the dock super early and although we thought it was early, Captain Kyle was up and at'm ready to fish! He said we were in for an adventure. The great thing about DSF is that they provide all the gear necessary for your catch. We were going out for Tuna as Bluefin are now found in the waters off the west coast, we were all pretty excited to go fishing. All we brought with us was food and drinks, having everything else included was a bonus. In the event we caught anything, they'll cut, clean, gill and give us fillets. The boat ride was awesome, no one got seasick thank goodness, there's ample seating inside and out. It was super foggy in the early morning, but cleared up by the time we started. I've not been on a fishing boat prior to this trip, and I was blown away at how scenic and beautiful the water was out there. The bright sunshine gave the water a super bright blue appearance, it was cool. Captain Kyle and his deckhand got everyone rigged up and ready to fish. The Captain is youthful and took his time answering questions and giving advice. His mixture of humor and knowledge of where the fish were was certainly a bonus because as soon as lines were in the water we heard, " Fish On!" That first Tuna took everyone on board including my son Parker to reel it in ( Posted Picture). What a freaking rush. It was exciting watching as everyone reeled something in on the boat. We laughed, joked and had such a fun day out on the water with friends. On our way back in to harbor the Captain pointed out several whale pods swimming around the boat, it was a trip seeing them jump. We enjoyed our lunch and talked about who caught the biggest tuna. In all honesty, that first one was the biggest in my book. I can't say enough great things about Captain Kyle and his Diamond Sport Fishing. Reservations were easy as charters go out practically daily either 1/2 or full days. The waters off of California are changing, getting warmer, they're seeing Bluefin Tuna and Marlin so who knows, maybe our next trip we'll catch something epic! Overall Impression: A+

Great trip! Husbands bachelor party! They loved it! They all had a fantastic time and even caught…read moresome fish and enjoyed the ride on the boat!

Riptide Charters

Riptide Charters

(102 reviews)

My family and I just went on a whale watching trip today…read more It's always part luck. Thankfully, we got lucky. Spotted a couple Gray Whales from a distance, and after a tip from another boat were able to get closer to two others swimming together and ride along with them for a while. Captain Smitty and Lee were great! Knowledgeable, friendly, informative, and great stewards of the sea, and marine life. We definitely recommend these guys. Go with an open heart, patience, and have fun!

We had the best time with Riptide Charters. The F/V Riptide is a 40' fiberglass hull, equipped with…read morea turbo diesel, and is licensed and inspected by the United States Coast Guard. It was so clean, well until we all made a mess. It is a lovely boat. We felt so safe with the crew. The Riptide is owned by Capt. William Smith. He has been a licensed captain for over 30 years. You will find it located on "H" dock at Pillar Pt. Harbor in El Granada (near Half Moon Bay), California. The Captain was with us and he was able to help the weak ones, like me, without making me feel like I did not belong. The boat leaves super early in the morning so get some sleep the night before. I had to nap after. Go to their website to see what type of fish is in season or you will not be happy. We went for Rockfish and caught a few and were so happy. We grilled it all up and it was great and we were able to serve a lot of people. I was hoping to see a whale, but sadly, did not. I think they are pretty rare to see in that area. They have clean bathrooms. We will be back, this time for salmon.

SF Bay Adventures - Guests Relax While Viewing the Sunset on the Iconic San Francisco Bay with the Golden Gate Bridge in the Background

SF Bay Adventures

(97 reviews)

We enjoyed our second sail on The Schooner Freda B out of Sausalito tonight. It was a perfectly…read morewonderful sunset sail on SF Bay. Previously, we took the Freda B on the Wildlife Morning Sail in 2024, which was also fantastic. What makes the Freda B special is the crew. The vessel itself is gorgeous--even the "head" is great! From the moment you board and are greeted by the crew, you know you're in good hands. The safety instructions are thorough, and the crew immediately puts you at ease before setting off. Whether you have a clear night or a little fog (like tonight), the skies are beautiful, the Golden Gate Bridge is magical, and San Francisco twinkles in the distance. The crew meets your every need with kindness, excellent service, and genuine interest in you as a passenger. They're also an interesting bunch--just ask them about themselves! Hot (chocolate!) and cold beverages are available for purchase, including adult beverages. For out of towners...Wear and bring layers. Jacket + sweater/fleece, long pants, beanie hat, gloves if you have them. Blankets available onboard. This is SF Bay 12 months a year - always chilly and the sail is worth every layer of clothing. We celebrated my birthday tonight, and it was perfect. Thank you!

The Freda B and its crew took our dream of a wedding on a sailboat and made it into a reality. The…read morecaptain was prepared, thoughtful, and ready to help us with all of our needs. The crew was all smiles, good cheer, and skillful work. They carefully crafted an amazing experience, allowing us to get married with the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay as our backdrop. We could not have asked for a more magical wedding.

All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting - The South Fork American river offers fun Class 3 rapids as well as beautiful scenery.

All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting

(270 reviews)

We've rafted twice more with All-Outdoors since my last review - Goodwin Canyon in October 2022,…read moreand then Middle Fork American River again this past month (both 1-day trips). The last time we rafted Middle Fork American was on a cold, gloomy, drizzling day in October 2019 - so we had to give it another go in warmer weather. This time around was just as memorable. Two of us in the boat ended up falling out in the water at Tunnel Chute, which happened so fast that I barely knew what had happened - thankfully, there was a nice calmer stretch of water right after through the river tunnel, so we were easily able to get back into the raft. (Thank you to our guide, Troy, for hauling me back in, and for being an awesome guide in general!) Plus this was one of the photographer spots, so the action was all captured for us to laugh about later. Later, after our tasty sandwich picnic lunch, we had a few unexpected events happen, starting from the portage down Ruck-a-Chucky Falls. Shout-out to all three guides in our group - Troy, Shea, and AJ - for handling things so calmly and getting us all back where we were supposed to be! We had plenty of calm stretches floating down the river as well. The canyon is beautiful and quite peaceful. We saw a ton of dragonflies flying above our heads, masked ducks chilling on rocks and diving underwater, and wild grapes and blackberries growing alongside the river. We'll be back again for another trip with All-Outdoors! Maybe we'll try a 2-day or 3-day trip next time.

This rafting company is the best! We did the South Fork of the American River and had a blast. I…read morehighly recommend this trip and company. Ask for Markus to be your guide. You won't be disappointed.

Lovely Martha - boating - Updated May 2026

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