PHOTOS: Ferry Service to South S.F. Launches

Fog and rain couldn't keep the crowds from the Oyster Point Ferry Terminal Monday morning to celebrate a historic event: the launch of commuter ferry service between Alameda (and Oakland) and South San Francisco.

The first commuter ferry to launch in the Bay Area since 1992, when ferries began running between San Francisco and Alameda's Harbor Bay Ferry Terminal, was sent off with pomp and circumstance, with performances by the South San Francisco High School band and speeches by local politicians, including Congresswoman Jackie Speier and Mayor Richard Garbarino.

The newest transbay service will consist of three morning rush hour departures from the East Bay, and two return trips from Oyster Point in the evening. The trip takes about 40 minutes.

The fare will be $7 each way for adults, though tickets will be free for all passengers through Friday. Passengers can use Clipper cards for their rides. More information on fares and times can be found online at www.watertransit.org.

The state-of-the-art ferries can accommodate 149 passengers and 34 bikes, and feature free Wi-Fi, booth seating and a bar.

The Alameda terminal is at 2990 Main St., at Alameda Point behind Bay Ship & Yacht Co.

Significant funding for the terminal and ferries came from bridge tolls, Measure A sales tax and federal funds.