Reviews for Sausalito Vacation Rental - VRBO 3007947ha - 2 BR San Francisco Bay Area House Boat in CA, Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay

Serenity Now

Guest Ben
Date of stay 04/13/13
Review Submitted 04/28/13

In our experience it all depends on what you are looking for, and trying to match your expectations. The Yellow Ferry is everything it is represented to be: luxurious, very private, extraordinarily unique, and 30 minutes from San Francisco to the south and Muir Woods, Stinson Beach to the north, just a tad longer to Berkeley, and an hour to wine country. Chris Tellis and famijly have done an incredible job. The rental side of the ferry used to be his mother's quarters, and is furnished with her collections gathered through extensive global travel, her cookbooks and very well equipped kitchen, and more. It is the opposite of sterile, but is in no way cluttered. Each day we found different treasures we hadn't seen before. The extensive use of glass throughout the boat couples one to the bay. The view from the master bedroom, through a wall of glass, the ferry's paddle wheel and across the bay to the Tiburon Hills is a marvelous way to start the day. The south wall of the living room is comprised of six large glass panels that you can open completely joining the inside to the deck outside. The Ferry was ready for our arrival, clean, well supplied with the basics, with a lovely gift basket on the kitchen counter containing some wine, cheese and a variety of snacks we enjoyed throughout the week. Groceries are a few miles away, there are restaurants and a deli within walking distance of the dock. Chris has written a guide that is well thought out and very useful. His critique of the three restaurants we tried was right on. The Yellow Ferry Marina, the boat's home, is quite lovely, not what you see around you in the harbor. Adequate parking, the plantings are great, the docks in wonderful condition, and the neighbors friendly. The fleet of shopping carts in the parking lot make it easy to transfer luggage or groceries to the boat. Chris was in the process of constructing a pergola type structure on one of the docks when we were there. We would repeat in a heartbeat.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Magical!

Guest Nadia G.
Date of stay 04/07/13
Review Submitted 04/16/13

Two families enjoyed an amazing week together on the most beautiful home! The Yellow Ferry is a treasure trove of collectibles gathered from all over the world - the art, furniture, rugs, glass blown lamps and the layout could be from an interior design magazine titled "Boho Chic". The home is extremely comfortable and BIG - plenty of room for all of us to enjoy without feeling cramped (that says a lot when you have young children with you!) We enjoyed beautiful weather, observing wildlife from each and every room and walking throughout the darling & colorful floating home community here in Sausalito. I can't recommend the home enough - truly spectacular.

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Magical!

Guest Nadia G.
Date of stay 04/07/13
Review Submitted 04/16/13

The photos online do not do justice to this magnificent home - the Yellow Ferry is like walking through a "treasure chest" filled with art, rugs and collectibles from all over the world with bits and pieces from the bay thrown in - it's a true "Boho Chic" spread that is completely comfortable and welcoming throughout. We are local to the area and managed to have a walk through the home before agreeing to stay there and from that day on I was so excited for our "staycation." The Yellow Ferry is a real destination place amongst a wonderfully colorful floating home community here in Sausalito. I was delighted to share it with family who were visiting (young children included & it was completely safe!) and with friends from the area, the YF owner Chris was kind enough to join us during a night of cocktails and patiently explained the history of the ferry to everyone. It's a magical place.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Exceeded Expectations!

Guest James B.
Date of stay 04/01/13
Review Submitted 04/20/13

The Yellow Ferry was the perfect place to stay for our trip to San Francisco. It was clean, private, charming, large, and convenient to many attractions. It's hard to say what we loved best...sitting by the fireplace at night reading, making breakfast in the gourmet kitchen, opening the large doors to let the warm breeze into the living room, or sitting on the sundeck enjoying the view. It was the perfect place to return to after a day of sightseeing. The hosts were so kind to leave a basket of treats for us when we arrived (after a long trip with 4 children). We were sad to leave but know that if we ever go back to this area we will DEFINITELY stay here again!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Fabulous!

Guest Rosemary G.
Date of stay 03/06/13
Review Submitted 03/26/13

Our stay at the Yellow Ferry was magical! Greg graciously showed us all around the boat when we arrived and made us feel welcome. We felt so relaxed and happy surrounded by the water with beautiful views. The art and books we discovered throughout the boat were fascinating. We appreciated the folder Chris left of lists of favorite restaurants and activities nearby. We delighted in the comfort and spaciousness, the beautiful light. Our son visited us while we were there and watching him singing and playing the banjo (softly!) by the firelight is a memory we will cherish for the rest of our lives. We look forward to planning another vacation at the Yellow Ferry soon and have already recommended it to friends and family.

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The best 24 hour getaway we've ever had!

Guest Toadlee
Date of stay 02/09/13
Review Submitted 02/19/13

My friends and I only had 24 hours and we needed to cover a lot of ground; we needed a water setting, a high walkability score (even though 2 of us are on the gimp-list), wildlife, quiet, well-appointed and over-the-top. The Yellow Ferry was that and more! The space is so generous, and the baths, kitchen, etc. so clean and lovely, we were very well pampered. On top of that, the history of the family, the area, the ambience so spectacular, we were literally dancing on that beautiful big floor with glee. I will definitely return for a longer stay and if you can swing it, you should try it too. Well worth the cost.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Weekend Away from San Francisco!

Guest SF
Date of stay 02/02/13
Review Submitted 02/12/13

My wife booked the Ferry as a surprise get away from our home in San Francisco. Unlike most other reviews who used the Ferry to visit San Francisco area, we were aiming to take a break - and it was awesome. Most important thing to note is that the Ferry is absolutely huge - our section was likely bigger than our three bedroom home in the city. Any thoughts of cramped living should be thrown out - it's huge, open and airy. The bay is incredibly calm, and rowing or kayaking from the front door is a very pleasant way to spend an idle hour. The boat is close to lots of great restaurants, and there's lots to do in the area. What more could you want?!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Sausalito Serenity

Guest Peter63
Date of stay 12/13/12
Review Submitted 12/17/12

Just returning to New York City from four terrific days in San Francisco, the highlight of which--our accommodations. We surprised the kids with our "hotel" selection--their jaws dropped to the dock when they first saw the magnificent (the photos don't do it justice) "Yellow Ferry". Incredibly spacious, thoughtfully appointed (right down to a welcome basket of champagne, cheese and crackers--and 3-D glasses for the kids), spotless (giving new meaning to "ship shape") and dramatically sited at the end of the pier with a spectacular vista--a special place. Not sure if the owner arranged for the rainbow, but it was in keeping with the overall feeling of being well looked after. Can't wait for an excuse to return to the West Coast!

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Rare Jewel

Guest Nicoline C.
Date of stay 10/06/12
Review Submitted 10/20/12

My family joins the choir of happy guests at the Yellow Ferry! We stayed 14 days and enjoyed every one of them. The description of the ferry creates high expectations - and the Ferry does not disappoint! It has it all and moreover, it is packed with history, great books, art and artifacts from all over the world. The 118 year old wooden floor in the living room is a masterpiece of beauty in itself, falling asleep and waking up in the master bedroom with the light coming through the spokes of the wheel is unique too. Kayaking and paddle boarding makes for great excursions and seal encounters. The 'backyard' offers great surf and beach life on the pacific coast, great MTB and road biking and of course big city life in San Francisco, if that's what you want (check out the Swan Oyster Depot as recommend by the Owner). The Owners are friendly and service-minded, you can't ask for more. Very recommendable.

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Heaven!

Guest NC Traveller
Date of stay 08/08/12
Review Submitted 08/21/12

The Yellow Ferry was beyond my highest expectations, and our stay was perfect. The Ferry was close to everything yet as quiet as an island unto itself. The kitchen was well equipped with supplies as well as a welcome basket. Parking was easy. Neighbors were friendly. There was even an ipad for us to use to access news ans entertainment. We loved it!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful Stay

Guest Amy L.
Date of stay 07/26/12
Review Submitted 08/07/12

My husband and I and our 4 children ages 5-15 had an amazing 5 night stay on the Yellow Ferry. The accommodations were incredibly spacious, comfortable and well-maintained. We loved being able to kayak and paddle board right from the ferry. The owners are very helpful and provideda list of things to do in the area, restaurants, etc. We tried a few of their recommendations and they were great. I would definitely recommend the Yellow Ferry to friends and family.

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Perfection

Guest Amy L.
Date of stay 07/26/12
Review Submitted 08/01/12

My husband and I and 4 children (ages 5-15) stayed on the Yellow Ferry for 5 nights. It was the highlight of our 10 day trip to California. We loved the beautiful views and the spaciousness of the ferry. It was really a haven for us after sightseeing all day in San Francisco. The kids also loved kayaking and paddle boarding on the water. And the owners are so nice and helpful. A wonderful place that we hope to visit again soon!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Surpassed expectations

Guest Bob
Date of stay 07/08/12
Review Submitted 07/16/12

There is a lot of history to the Yellow Ferry. It appears to be a major life work by a series of people. They did a great job. It is not like staying in a museum however. Beds, couches, kitchens and the amenities of life are all up to date and functioning. The views of the bay are magnificent. You can jump off the dock and start kayaking. There is almost none of the rolling motion that gives people their sea legs. One of the joys of staying places that are a little different from the norm is that you can get a sense of the character of a place. The ferry exudes character. Creative and interesting people have lived here. Between the boat, the books, the artwork and the sunsets on the bay I was left wondering if I stayed long enough would I absorb some of that character?

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Historic and Heavenly

Guest Mary F.
Date of stay 07/02/12
Review Submitted 07/16/12

The Yellow Ferry was the perfect get away for three generations of our family. The teens enjoyed the kayaks and the nearby attractions such as sailing and zip lining. The parents and grandparents appreciated the spaciousness of the living areas and the beautiful views from every room. We all loved that the owners kept the historic feel of this home, but equipped it with all the modern amenities. There are numerous restaurants and shopping within walking distance, cycling or a short easy drive. The owners were available and helpful. We would rent this property again and would recommend it.

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Sitting on the Dock of the Bay...

Guest Fellow Traveler
Date of stay 06/10/12
Review Submitted 06/14/12

...has never been so fine. Looking out, the serene waters and attendant wildlife is enchanting. Inside, the ferry is rich with art and collected treasures from every corner of the globe. Intimate nooks and an expansive feasting table make this an ideal get away for two, or a memorable venue for a reunion. I've done enjoyed both, and will be back for more.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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the most unique experience I've had in the Bay area

Guest Doc
Date of stay 05/25/12
Review Submitted 06/16/12

This property is one of the most unique, memorable stays you will have. Our time on this restored ferry houseboat was not to be missed. The accommodations are comfortable and spacious. The houseboat owner is friendly, accommodating and helpful. The ferry boat is close enough to the town of Sausalito to enjoy all it offers, yet away enough to not be in the middle of things. Quiet, relaxing, restorative. There's no better feeling than waking up in the morning, sitting on the deck with your coffee and gazing upon the SF skyline and expanse of the water. With a car, it's a short drive over the Golden Gate Bridge for your tour of San Francisco. Or even more fun is to take the ferry from the town to the city-a great way to travel and you will go by Alcatraz on the way (also a great day trip and tour)-then you can use public transport in the city and don't need a car or have to worry about parking on those steep hills in SF. All in all, a fabulous property. Don't miss it! We will definitely stay there again when we return.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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fabulous views, lots of privacy & space

Guest Lorette
Date of stay 05/22/12
Review Submitted 06/09/12

I have often stayed in the other half of this spacious & solid ferryboat, & I value those memories. This is a very special and historic boat - lots of space, incredible views, great bird-watching & just hanging out on the deck. It's at the very end of the dock, so it's private & quiet, definitely away from the touristy part of town. The pier has parking (a valuable commodity), & it's just a 15-minute drive to SF. Fun restaurants in Sausalito, lots of walking paths nearby, great bicycling. You can even swim in the bay (which I've done plenty of times) or paddle around from the boat .

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Serenity

Guest Ted
Date of stay 05/03/12
Review Submitted 07/17/12

We stayed on this historic houseboat for a long weekend. It was one of the most serene places I have ever stayed. Waking up in the morning to the reflections on the water and the birds is sublime. It is amazing because all the excitement and stimulation of San Francisco is just a few minutes away over the Golden Gate. We did a day in the city and were so happy to get back to the spacious houseboat for a relaxing evening. It is extremely well equipped, so it was easy to prepare our own meal and enjoy all the comforts of home. We also spent a day exploring the sites and places just north of Sausalito. Muir Woods is so close and the Red Wood trees are just amazing. Lunch and shopping in Mill Valley is much more leisurely than the city but no less sophisticated. Again, coming back “home” to the houseboat was a great feeling. Not only is the location absolutely the best, but also the houseboat itself is so unique yet comfortable. Overall, this was the nicest weekend we have ever spent in the San Francisco area. And we spend 3 or 4 weekends a year in the area. I am confident we will be back.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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Fantastic Stay Close To Nature

Guest Antonia
Date of stay 12/15/11
Review Submitted 07/15/12

Stepping onto the gangway of the Yellow Ferry Harbor is like stepping into another world. The air smells of ocean and seaweed, the seagulls cruise overhead, the the San Francisco Bay laps gently at your feet. Wake up to the sounds and smells of waterfront living-- enjoy a steaming hot cup of French Roast while watching the seals flop around and the water change colors in the dawn. What I love most about this place is that it's just enough nature: I can smell it, I can see it, I can appreciate it-- and still relax with a cocktail in comfortable, sophisticated surroundings. San Francisco is an easy 10 minutes away over the Golden Gate Bridge, or just stroll around Sausalito with its world-class restaurants and cafes-- you don't even need a car. The hosts are gracious and welcoming-- plus they know a ton about all the secret spots and best restaurants around the Bay Area. We had a fantastic, unforgettable stay-- recommend without hesitation.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Most Unique Lodging

Guest DI
Date of stay 07/09/11
Review Submitted 06/15/12

This is one of the most unique settings you can find in the Greater Bay Area with the most interesting group of educated, witty, and hospitable people you could ask for. Will be going back for more of the same!

Recommended for: Families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Fabulous Ferryboat on San Francisco Bay [#422430] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (20)

Serenity Now

Serenity Now

Magical!

Magical!

Magical!

Magical!

Exceeded Expectations!

Exceeded Expectations!

Fabulous!

Fabulous!

The best 24 hour getaway we've ever had!

The best 24 hour getaway we've ever had!

Weekend *Away* from San Francisco!

Weekend *Away* from San Francisco!

Sausalito Serenity

Sausalito Serenity

Rare Jewel

Rare Jewel

Heaven!

Heaven!

Wonderful Stay

Wonderful Stay

Perfection

Perfection

Surpassed expectations

Surpassed expectations

Historic and Heavenly

Historic and Heavenly

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay...

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay...

the most unique experience I've had in the Bay area

the most unique experience I've had in the Bay area

fabulous views, lots of privacy & space

fabulous views, lots of privacy & space

Serenity

Serenity

Fantastic Stay Close To Nature

Fantastic Stay Close To Nature

Most Unique Lodging

Most Unique Lodging

Weekend Away from San Francisco!

Weekend Away from San Francisco!