All About the Alameda Water Shuttle

Photo Credit: The City of Alameda

What is the Alameda Water Shuttle?

The Oakland–Alameda Water Shuttle is a free, short-distance boat service that connects Alameda Landing (near Bohol Circle Immigrant Park) with Jack London Square in Oakland. It’s designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and people with mobility devices who need a fast, reliable way to cross the Oakland Estuary without having to bike or drive over the bridges—or navigate the Posey Tube on foot.

When did the shuttle launch, and how long will it operate?

The shuttle launched on July 17, 2024, as part of a two-year pilot program funded by the City of Alameda, the Port of Oakland, the Alameda Transportation Management Association, and San Francisco Bay Ferry. The goal is to evaluate its long-term viability by studying ridership demand, scheduling efficiency, and community feedback during the pilot period.

What days and hours does it run?

Be sure to check the shuttle's official page for the most up-to-date information on scheduling.

• Tuesday through Thursday: Early-morning departures begin around 7:20 AM, with the last shuttle leaving around 8:00 PM.
• Friday through Sunday: Service hours extend later into the evening, with the last boats leaving around 10:30 PM.
• The shuttle operates six days a week—it’s closed only on Mondays.
• This expanded schedule was introduced in July 2025 after high ridership during the first year showed strong demand for evening and weekday service.

How long is the ride, and how often does it depart?

The trip across the estuary is very short, taking only 5–7 minutes dock-to-dock. Boats operate frequently throughout the day—up to 63 trips daily—with intervals as short as 15 minutes during busy periods. It’s one of the fastest and most convenient ways to move between Oakland and Alameda.

Is the shuttle really free?

Yes! The service is 100% free to ride, thanks to public funding and support from local agencies. No ticket, Clipper Card, or reservation is needed—just show up and board.

Is it accessible and bike-friendly?

Absolutely. The shuttle is ADA-compliant, making it easy for passengers using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to board and ride comfortably. There are also secure areas for up to 14 bicycles, which is especially convenient for cyclists who want to avoid the unsafe and lengthy trip through the Posey Tube.

What’s the capacity of the boat?

The shuttle boat, named Woodstock, accommodates 31 passengers at a time, along with 14 bikes. During peak hours, expect to wait for the next boat if it’s full—but with frequent departures, the wait is usually just a few minutes.

Who uses the Alameda Water Shuttle?

The shuttle serves a wide range of riders:

• Commuters heading to or from BART or Amtrak connections in Oakland.
• Cyclists looking for a fast, safe shortcut between the island and downtown.
• Families and caregivers who find the shuttle far easier than walking over a mile to the nearest bridge.
• Visitors and tourists exploring Alameda’s waterfront parks or Jack London Square. Since launching, the shuttle has carried over 100,000 riders and 22,000 bicycles, reflecting strong community adoption.

Why is the shuttle important for the community?

• It reduces car trips across the bridges and through the tunnel, easing congestion.
• It creates a safe and accessible route for those who can’t or don’t want to bike or drive.
• It enhances the connection between two waterfront destinations—Alameda Landing and Jack London Square—making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy restaurants, shops, and waterfront events on both sides of the estuary.

Can I take the shuttle year-round?

Yes. The shuttle operates rain or shine, though service may pause briefly during unsafe weather conditions like high winds or heavy fog. Live updates and alerts are posted online and at the terminals when disruptions occur.

What are some other fun facts about the shuttle?

• The shuttle boat is a 45-foot yellow pontoon vessel, lovingly named “Woodstock".
• It formerly operated as a tour boat called Captain Jack.
• Woodstock can hold up to 31 passengers and 14 bicycles on its racks, though capacity may vary slightly based on how many bikes or strollers are aboard
• It runs up to 63 trips per day, spanning about 15 hours of service.
• Since its launch on July 17, 2024, the shuttle has carried 100,000+ riders and 22,000+ bicycles in under a year
• In July 2025, the water shuttle’s service expanded to include Tuesdays for the first time, along with longer weekend hours—boosting total weekly trips by 35%.
• The service was recognized with a 2025 Transportation Planning Award of Excellence from the American Planning Association’s Northern California chapter.