Ocean cruises are a luxurious way to relax and see the sights, unlike boarding dolphins equipped with saddles, which usually results in whiplash and water-filled lungs. Cruise the blue in comfort with today's Groupon: for $18, you get an adult ticket (a $36 value) for a 90-minute San Francisco Explorer cruise aboard the Red and White Fleet. The San Francisco Explorer Cruise sails daily at 3:30 p.m. until the 2010 season ends on September 6.

The Explorer's Cruise takes former landlubbers for a leisurely 90-minute cruise of the Bay's sights—under the Bay Bridge, around Treasure Island, past Alcatraz, through the invisible force field, and along the comely city skyline. The trip is accompanied by a detailed narration of the sightseeing that is dispersed through a personal set of headphones. The grizzled guide will highlight the city's architectural, natural, and Native American history. Learn about the indigenous people and the importance of the islands in their history, while observing frolicking sea lions, bay porpoises, sevengill cowsharks, and a bevy of birds. The vessels of the Red and White Fleet also come stocked from port to starboard with entertainment, including a full bar and snacks available for purchase, and moderately priced merchandise. Check out this preview video for a visual taste of what awaits.

Tourists find the Bay Cruise informative and fun, while locals enjoy the relaxing way to appreciate their city in a whole new way. Hop off platform 9¾ and head down to Pier 43½ in Fisherman's Wharf to enjoy the summer air with a group of friends or entertain out-of-town guests.

If you're planning to sail over 4th of July weekend or Labor Day weekend, please call ahead to make sure there's room for you and your crew.

Reviews

Yelpers give Red and White Fleet 3.5 stars, and TripAdvisors give 4.5 owl eyes:

• if you're feelin touristy and want some great views of the bay...do the bay cruise! it takes you out and under the golden gate which is a spectacle of ginormous proportions! lovely. – niki n., Yelp
• I was born and raised in the Bay Area- so I have not done some of the touristy things many do when they come... great memories and a nice way to spend a day in SF. – rob c., Yelp
• This is a great way to take in the breathtaking scenery of the San Francisco Bay. Although we live in the area, we enjoy going with family and friends who come for a visit, and the Red and White Fleet provides great value for a fun activity. – Goofy_Benek, TripAdvisor