House boat

Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay

Photo gallery for Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay

Yellow Ferry on a Fall Morning
Outdoor dining
Exterior detail
Property grounds
Entryway and front deck

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6241.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Sausalito, CA
  • San Francisco Bay Model Visitor Center
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Golden Gate Bridge
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Marin Headlands
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Sausalito, CA (JMC-Commodore Center Heliport)
    ‪19 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining Area

About this property

Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay

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.

Property manager

Chris or Nate Tellis

Languages

English, Japanese, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
The Ferry is large, but it is an historic home and should not be confused with an event space. Please do not not expect to host large parties.
The floors are made of Douglis Fir and are relatively soft. Please do not wear sharp shoes or drag any of the furniture. Also the roof is off limits.
Please respect the peace and quiet of the neighbors in the Harbor.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

North America

Map
Sausalito, CA

What's nearby

  • San Francisco Bay Model Visitor Center - 3 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Golden Gate Bridge - 11 min drive - 12.6 km
  • Muir Woods National Monument - 13 min drive - 10.7 km
  • Marin Headlands - 14 min drive - 10.9 km
  • Rodeo Beach - 31 min drive - 11.9 km

Getting around

  • Richmond Transit Center - 21 min drive
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 53 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Good Earth Natural Foods - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Equator Coffees & Teas - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Fish - ‬17 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay located?

Situated on the waterfront, this houseboat is within 6 miles (10 km) of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Presidio of San Francisco and Mount Tamalpais State Park. Sweetwater Music Hall and Bay Area Discovery Museum are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 109 out of 116 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 116 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 116 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 116 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 116 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Karen P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cali with the kids
The Yellow Ferry was the perfect location to spend a few days of family time with my adult children. We were able to explore San Francisco & Mt. Tam /Muir Woods which were just 20 minutes away.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tom K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
An extraordinary venue
Yellow Ferry is a wonderful venue for a Sausalito full flavor experience. Well done!
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeannie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unique
The ferry boat was a very unique and wonderful place to stay for a visit. It had everything we needed, was comfortable and clean and close to Muir Woods and to the ferries to San Francisco. Unfortunately, we only had a few days there, but wish we had been able to stay longer. Mornings and evenings were especially peaceful with the calm water, beautiful sky and the activity of the water burds.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandon J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing stay on the iconic Yellow Ferry in Sausalito.
I booked the Yellow Ferry for a friend's 40th birthday celebration. The place is amazing and the host makes every effort to make the stay as perfect as possible. There were five of us and there is plenty of space for all. Everyone had a great time and this was a very memorable trip. Can't wait to do it again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing stay!
Words can not express how cool it was to stay on this very special houseboat for a week. The view from the houseboat overlooking the bay is magical-sunrise and moonrise and everything in between. The houseboat is very spacious, well-appointed and provided me and my adult children with a memory of a lifetime. I hope to get back there someday soon!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tom T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Incredible Property
If you want a unique experience, this is the place. The history, the location, and the view are all amazing. Would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Houseboat
It was a wonderful experience in a unique setting that had myself and friends in awe! We loved every minute! Want to go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxation
Nice, relaxing time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Fred F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Christmas on a BIG Yellow Ferry
The ferry is amazing with natural fir floors that are beautifully yellowed with age. The arrival was a little confusing but only because we arrived in the dark and in the rain. That being said it was only a quick check to find the ferry at the end of the dock. The kitchen is completely outfitted and the Wolf stove was a treat to cook on. The living room and dining room are huge with multiple sofas and a swing. I grew up in Sausalito so we cruised through town showing everyone where the stairways up the hill were and where my old house was and the old mine on Sausalito Blvd. We also climbed a trail on Mt. Tam out of Pantoll and when we reached the top of the ridge on Old Mine trail we could look down and see the Big Yellow Ferry. We also went over to the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco which had an amazing collection of Asian statues, pottery and weapons. It was a great time adn my son in law asked we book it again next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay
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.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sally R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unbelievable stay!
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!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exceeded our expectations!
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.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary Colleen F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ms
This location and ferry boat was terrific- will come back !
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
An amazing getaway location
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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carin B., St. Simons Is., Georgia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Love the Yellow Ferry
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!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shane W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
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
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Claire A., Piedmont, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful, will stay again!
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!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

4/10 Poor

Zachary B., Cherry Hills Village

Unique Location, Interesting Home, Musty Smell
This is a unique property for sure and we appreciate Chris and Izzie opening up their home to us. We saw sea lions sleeping nearby and enjoyed living on a boat. However, the unit was not clean by our standards and had a musty smell that had all of use feeling allergic to the home. If the unit were clean and didn't smell we would have had a great time.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2017

10/10 Excellent

Lorri B.

Christmas 2018
Chris and Nate, My family can't thank you enough for the beautiful and memorable Christmas we were able to spend on your Yellow Ferry. From the fantastic views to the well apportioned kitchen we were able to enjoy our stay immensely. From this wonderful location we were easily able to visit Napa/Sonoma, San Francisco, where we enjoyed Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista Cafe, and Muir Woods and Beach on Christmas day. My parents were very sad to have had to leave as they thoroughly enjoyed returning to your boat by walking the Christmas light lit walkway every evening. Again thank you as you were able to make this Christmas trip one that we will never forget. Scott and Lorri
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

6/10 Okay

Sherrie S., Portland

Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Such Potential.
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

2/10 Terrible

D L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location
Disliked: Communication, listing accuracy
If you like the owner to watch you through the window. This is the place for you.
I hate to blow these guys five-star rating but I have to give a realistic review. First off, the guy lives IN the houseboat that you rent. In addition to him living in the same houseboat as you. He micromanaged everything we did. To a point (and I will post pictures of this) That he and 3 other people put chairs up on the deck that we share and sat there and drink wine for 2 1/2 hours while staring into our kitchen window and watching every single thing we did. That an at 5 o’clock on a Saturday (note that’s 5 pm. In a Saturday. Not late. Very early) he comes knocking on my door telling me we are way too loud that we all should be wearing masks while inside the houseboat which by the way him and his little happy hour group we're not wearing masks. He called me a liar because we had an extra two people with us. But I didn’t tell him about it. Which I didn’t realize he needed to know. He was extremely and I emphasize the word, EXTREMELY rude. He could’ve easily come over and told us to lower the music or stop dancing around which is what we were doing. He could’ve said many different ways. But he chose to be super rude and he chose to name call. But do you have somebody staring in your kitchen window and watching everything you do? It’s just not ok! Also, the furniture is old and most items are broken. The chairs for the dining room table are so much lower than the table, when you sit in them you are at eye level with the table. Why? Because the seats are broken. I have pics of that too. So if you like somebody staring in your kitchen window and watching your every move and then coming to the door and telling you at 5 o’clock on a Saturday that you’re not allowed to have music playing and you have to wear a mask inside his house. This is the place for you. For that much a night, I would think I would have privacy and the ability to have fun with my family that I haven’t seen in nine months. Just to note the children all went to bed at 7:30 so I’ll noise was done at 7:30 both nights. So literally there was noise between 4 PM and 7 PM. and the whole time he sat there and stared into the kitchen window and watched everything we did. Wonderful vacation. Go elsewhere.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mitch B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yellow Ferry Revisited
Our second stay on the Yellow Ferry - for four weeks this time!! Loved it - and will definitely be back.
Stayed 17 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kelly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication
Sitting on the Dock of the Bay!!!
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!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Irina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing on the water location; close to Downtown, attractions, hikes
Owners are responsive and helpful
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

About the host

Hosted by Chris or Nate Tellis

Host profile image
The Tellis family adopted the City of Seattle in 1956, when we discovered her beached and abandoned along the Vallejo estuary. We brought her back to Sausalito, fixed her up, and in various configurations we have been living here for the past 55 years. The boat is now owned and maintained by Chris Tellis and Isabella Kirkland who live at the other end the boat. Both of us have careers in the arts and environment. We love living on the water and are delighted to be able to share this magical setting with others from around the world.

Why they chose this property

I have lived on the Sausalito waterfront since 1953. There is no place like Sausalito and southern Marin Couty. Even after seven years on the East Coast and two years in London and various other watering holes, I could not imagine living anywhere else. The Bay Area provides the perfect synthesis of intellectual stimulation and sybaritic diversion. I love New York, Europe and Asia, but in the end I would always want to come back to the water here in Sausalito, Chris Tellis

What makes this property unique

Living on an majestic ship, surrounded by history and beautiful wood, watching the sailboats, the harbor seals, the pelicans and migrating birds, there is nothing like this anywhere else. With the quiet of the Ferry, you feel you are miles away, yet just out the window is a water wonderland and a short drive away is one of the world's great cities. It is astonishing that a place can feel so removed yet be so close to a cultural epicenter.

Languages:

English, Spanish, Japanese