The last time I visited "the Rock" was back during college with some friends during a summer trip to San Francisco. Over a decade later, I decided it was time to return, but this time I took a special night tour of Alcatraz Island during the winter when there was more darkness. The clouds had returned by the time we arrived, but I felt that seeing the historic prison in black & white seems even better.
Alcatraz Clipper Ferry
This is the only way to visit the island. Fortunately, handcuffs and chains are optional on the trip. The ferry takes passengers on the short trip in relative comfort on a very green ship. The cruise operator worked with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District to install exhaust after treatment and electric shore power on the boat. Combined with on-board solar panels and windmills, the system emits 80% less ozone-forming pollution and burns 20% less diesel fuel.
Old Guard Tower and Historic Truck
The ferry disembarks at the main docks where you meet your tour guide and head up the hill to the main prison. The United States government has used Alcatraz Island for many years as a military base, military prison, and federal penitentiary. Early military prisoners enjoyed a cell that was 3 feet wide, 5 feet long, and 5 feet high. Later prisoners would enjoy much nicer accommodations.
Prison Shower
Time for a shower. The line for audio tours snakes around the communal shower that makes most dorm showers look like a five-star spa. Inmates were allowed two showers per week. Most of the tourists could use one too.
During the night tour, there are various special tours and demonstrations. Above is a video of the cell doors opening and closing. They did not use keys to unlock the doors. Remote mechanical releases would allow the guards to access the cells. I also had the opportunity to take a night walking tour around the island which was pretty awesome on a still, clear night. The guide told us about several escape attempts while a buoy bell tolled in the distance. That and the amazingly awesome San Francisco night skyline all lit up for the holidays!
Prison Dining Room
Most of my fellow "inmates" throughly enjoyed their sentence on Alcatraz. After the audio tour, you can move freely around the prison and even buy a few souvenir tin cups. Alcatraz was a prison for prisoners which meant you had to break the rules while in prison to end up here. Inmates had a mixed life playing baseball one minute and under lockdown the next. The facility has a unique history and is a fun trip for anyone living in or visiting Northern California.
The ferry back to San Francisco was quick, but gorgeous. The San Francisco skyline is always impressive, but at night it truly shines. Unfortunately, the camera cannot do this place justice. The above video attempts to capture the essence of the voyage, but you really need to do this in person to catch the true feeling.
Christmas Tree at Pier 39
The night tour returns to Pier 33 around 7:00 PM which is perfect timing for shopping and dinner at nearby Pier 39. This tourist trap is open nightly with a huge sparking tree visible from Alcatraz and made a perfect ending to a long day. Please enjoy the rest of my pictures below.
Alcatraz Island with San Francisco Skyline
Prison Powerhouse with Graffiti
Main Dock at Alcatraz
"Welcome" Sign with Graffiti from Native American Occupation
Original Prison Building
Main Prison Entrance
Interior Cellblock
Solitary Confinement Cell on D Block
Recreation Yard
Interior of Main Cell with Typical Personal Effects
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