Waterfront neighborhoods from the Marina to Fisherman's Wharf down The Embarcadero to SoMa and Dogpatch are packed with visitors for Fleet Week this weekend; about 300,000 are expected to stream into the city. We captured some of the excitement on Saturday as people toured ships and watched air shows, including the Blue Angels.
If you're out today, remember to keep one eye on @FleetWeek on Twitter for all of the up-to-the-minute updates on who's flying overhead.
HMCS Calgary, FFH35
Crowds wait patiently along Pier 17 to board the HMCS Calgary, FFH 35, a Canadian ship that's done trips to the Persian Gulf. Once aboard, sailors were on hand to discuss the ship's mission, its gun turrets and more. The deck was also an ideal vantage point for views of the air show and the Bay dotted with boats and ships. Other ship tours were available at Piers 30-32 and Pier 80 in SoMa; we recommend going early.
Line to board the HMCS Calgary, FFH 35.
Taking photos of the air show from the deck of the HMCS Calgary, FFH35.
The Embarcadero was a steady stream of foot traffic, and restaurants and bars were packed —particularly the popular Pier 23 Cafe, with its outside beer garden.
Cruise line passengers watched the from decks of both ships in port on Saturday: the Grand Princess at Pier 27 and the Star Princess at Pier 35.
Others were savvy enough to know about the public open space at the tip of Pier 29, avoiding the crowds but providing stellar views. "This is my secret spot," said Lynne Harris of Walnut Creek, whose friend knew about it from working on a ship at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27.
Overheard on the pier by youngsters: "Is this a plane show or a boat show?" (it's both) and "It's so loud!" (he had earplugs in; don't worry). Unfortunately, Fat Albert flown by the Blue Angels' first female pilot, Katie Higgins, was unable to fly due to mechanical problems, according to a @FleetWeek tweet.
After the show, a huge line of hundreds of people formed near Pier 39 waiting for the Blue Angels to sign autographs. The air shows and ship tours will continue again today.
